Whether it's buying an indie brand's lipstick versus a global conglomerate's or hitting up the local farmer's market instead of a grocery chain, we have the power to make a positive impact with our shopping decisions. And now more than ever, supporting Black-owned businesses should be at the top of our purchase priority lists. To kick off this conversation, we talked with BLK+GRN founder Dr. Kristian Edwards, PhD, to learn more about all the beautiful Black-owned wellness brands we should all be following, shopping, and sharing.
"When I started looking at the [wellness] industry, specifically, the industry leaders, I thought that Black people, in general, were being left behind — and women were really being left behind," BLK+GRN founder Dr. Kristian Edwards, PhD, told Refinery29. "It was really important to me, trying to make sure that Black women always had a space." Dr. Edwards' journey into wellness began shortly after she received her degree in public health and read a story detailing how many of the products intended for Black women out on the market were actually more toxic and full of potentially dangerous ingredients: "After I read that story, I personally started to be more mindful about what products I was putting on my body," she shared. Fast-forward three years, and Dr. Edwards' online marketplace is one of the most comprehensive spaces for Black female artisans across beauty, wellness, home, and beyond. "During that time, I also read [Maggie Anderson's] book, Our Black Year, and she explained the economic importance of purchasing Black-owned products: What that meant for the community, and from an economic standpoint," she explained of the spark behind creating a platform by and for Black, female-owned businesses. And, we've rounded up 11 of such ahead.
Please note that this list is by no means exhaustive — it's just a jumping-off point! Watch this space for the newest Black-owned wellness brands and join the conversation by sharing your favorites in the comments below.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Homebody
Level up your bath game with a CBD-infused bath soak that transforms your tub into a pastel paradise.
The Honey Pot Company
If you get periods, you can either hit Amazon Prime for mass-brand pads and tampons...or you can vote with your dollars (again and again, because that's how periods work!) by supporting an emerging brand that creates natural, non-toxic feminine care products.
Golde
Turmeric's renaissance as a reigning wellness ingredient is still going strong. So strong, in fact, that the golden latte mixes are currently sold out everywhere. (Major props to Trinity Mouzon Wofford and Issey Kobori.)
Movita
Founder Tonya Lewis Lee's career spans roles as a TV producer, author, and as of late, an outspoken entrepreneur and advocate for women's health. Enter Movita, her range of organic vitamins intended to support a healthy lifestyle.
New Secrets Tea
This is one secret that's not meant to be kept. The Baltimore-based tea haven is all about creating delicious loose-leaf tea blends to live your best life, and honestly, we can't even pick a favorite.
B Condoms
Safe sex is always a turn-on. These premium latex condoms (skip if you have an allergy) are triple-tested to ensure that they're not going to break or tear mid-use and are lubricated for extra-smooth action.
Black Girl In Om
Navigating the topics of mental health and meditation can feel intimidating if you're a beginner — Lauren Ash is here to fix that. In addition to having a need-to-follow podcast and Instagram with guided meditations and breathing exercises, Black Girl In Om is fostering a community of womxn to create an open space of well-being for all.
Ivy’s Tea Co.
With names like 'Blow,' 'Side Piece,' and the wonderful 'Not Coffee', Ivy's Tea Co. is here to add some much-needed flavor (both literal and figurative) to the tea world. No wonder they've caught the attention of Queen Bey herself.
Healhaus
Calling all Brooklynites — Healhaus' local, community-driven Clinton Hill studio and cafe has pivoted to offer virtual wellness resources including yoga, meditation, energy healing, and life coaching in the time of COVID.
Blue Sage Eco Boutique
These crystal-infused aromatherapy candles – which are almost sold out! — are paired with affirmations to keep you centered and manifest intentions. (They also smell divine.)
Dirt Don't Hurt
Sustainably-sourced bamboo toothbrushes and oral care products? Sign us up.