With companies like CoverGirl and MAC celebrating queer women like Ellen DeGeneres and Beth Ditto, it seems the days of assuming lesbians eschew beauty products might finally be over. Just like our heterosexual counterparts, we enjoy using makeup, fragrances and other cosmetic enhancements to express our identities. But because the beauty industry can be so unwelcoming with its pushing of conventional and often unattainable standards, it’s rarer that we honor them.
So with that in mind, we are highlighting five beauty product lines and companies owned by queer women, all of which are more interested in helping people to feel more themselves rather than become someone else.
Makeup artist Gloria Noto has been a favorite of Shailene Woodley and the women of HAIM, but it’s her new line of unisex serums, color stains, oils and mists that even the general public can enjoy. All products are born of “natural oils … the finest ingredients acting as healing medicines for your body and senses.” Bonus: Visit Gloria’s blog to learn how to make beauty products in your own kitchen.
JoAnn Fowler was the on-set makeup artist on The L Word, which inspired her line of safe and chemical-free cosmetics. Concealers, eye shadows, compacts-this is your new favorite go-to for essentials. Fun fact: The foundations are all named after the actress they were inspired by.
Shirley Pinkson‘s products are all created in small batches to ensure they are not only cruelty-free but of the finest quality. A one-stop shop, W3ll People has mascaras, pencils, brushes and value kits for the woman who wants it all. They also pride themselves on having the kind of stuff available to make it look like you’re not wearing makeup at all, which their video tutorials can help you with.
Best known for being the HBIC that can whip any business into shape, Tabatha was first introduced to us as a fierce hairstylist with an enviable pixie cut on Shear Genius. Her line with LuxHair has wigs, add-ons and extensions that she calls “secret weapons.” There all various styles and colors available both online and in select stores.
Out Venezuelan actress Patricia Velasquez has a worthwhile side project in her Wayuu-inspired products. All items are made from indigenous rainforest botanical ingredients “sourced through environmentally sustainable programs.” Hair products like shampoos, conditioners and oil treatments are available as well as plumpers, styling spray and cremes. You can find them online or on the Home Shopping Network.
What beauty products do you love to use? Know any that are queer women owned we miss? Vote for them now in our sister site’s Total Beauty Awards.
