As we step into the dawn of 2024, it’s undeniable that social media has become a powerful stage for self-expression. In this era of digital influence, women of color are taking center stage, cultivating massive followings, reshaping beauty standards, and setting the tone for the hottest trends across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. From makeup tutorials to skincare routines, these influencers have harnessed the power of digital platforms to celebrate their unique beauty and connect with a diverse audience. Dive into the world of “Digital Glam” and discover how these influencers are not just following trends but creating them, challenging conventional beauty norms and redefining the face of the beauty and fashion industry.
TikTok
TikTok, the viral short-form video app, has become a breeding ground for beauty trends that break away from the traditional mold. We’re no longer just consumers of beauty trends; we’re the trendsetters. On this platform anyone can go viral, and everyone has a valuable voice shaped by personal experiences that can relate to a viewer. This platform allows for creativity and innovation, giving rise to makeup hacks, skincare routines, and hair care tips that cater specifically to the needs of diverse skin tones and hair textures.
Instagram, the visual powerhouse, has been a key player in shaping beauty standards for years. From radiant, melanin-rich skin to natural hair textures, Instagram spearheaded a revolution led by the first generation of influencers. On this platform, we saw the rise of beauty campaigns that celebrate diversity and the increasing demand for authentic representation. Both are indicative of a shift towards a more inclusive and representative beauty industry.
YouTube
YouTube is home to the ultimate classroom, right at your fingertips. It has long been a hub for beauty enthusiasts, and women of color are dominating this space with unparalleled expertise. In-depth makeup tutorials, skincare routines tailored to specific skin concerns, and hair care advice for a myriad of textures allow influencers to not only share beauty tips, but empower their viewers to embrace their unique features.
There are countless, talented influencers across various social media platforms who have made a significant impact in the beauty and lifestyle space for women of color. Here are a few of our faves:
Jackie Aina (@jackieaina): With over 4 million subscribers on YouTube and an equally massive following on Instagram, Jackie Aina is known for her expertise in makeup and skincare. She is unapologetic about advocating for inclusivity in the beauty industry and has collaborated with major beauty brands to create products that cater to a wide range of skin tones.
Patricia Bright (@patriciabright): Patricia is a British beauty and lifestyle influencer with a dynamic presence on YouTube. Her content ranges from makeup tutorials to fashion hauls and personal development tips. Patricia uses her platform to empower and uplift her audience, promoting self-confidence and self-love.
Nyma Tang (@nymatang): Nyma is a beauty influencer and advocate for inclusivity in the beauty industry. Known for her series “The Darkest Shade,” where she tests and reviews the darkest shades of foundation available, Nyma has been a driving force in pushing for more diversity in makeup product offerings.
Roxette Arisa Howe (@roxettearisa): Roxette is a beauty and lifestyle influencer on YouTube and Instagram. She is passionate about cruelty-free beauty and often shares makeup tutorials, skincare routines, and fashion content. Roxette’s content reflects her commitment to promoting sustainability and ethical choices in beauty and fashion.
Monet McMichael (@monetmcmichael): Monet is beauty, fashion, and lifestyle influencer with an abundant following on TikTok. She often shares makeup tutorials and skincare routines to uplift what works for her Black and Puerto Rican skin.
Lauren Elyse (@laur_elyse): As a professional makeup artist and content creator, Lauren Elyse is known for her vibrant and creative makeup looks. She uses her platform to celebrate individuality and express herself through bold colors and artistic styles, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness.
Deepica Mutyala (@deepica): Deepica is the founder of the beauty brand TINTED and a prominent voice for diversity and representation in the beauty industry. Her platform focuses on inclusivity and the celebration of various skin tones and ethnic backgrounds.
Kellie Sweet (@kelliesweett): Kellie is a beauty and lifestyle content creator on YouTube who shares makeup tutorials, hair care tips, and fashion content. She is known for her honest product reviews and her relatable approach to beauty.
These influencers, among many others, are teaching and inspiring their followers while challenging the beauty industry to become more diverse and inclusive. As we enter 2024, their impact cannot be overstated. The future of beauty is digital, glamorous, and undeniably inclusive, thanks to the women who continue to redefine what it means to be beautiful in the digital age.
