Online Reporter
The Herald, 19 June 1982
BLACK women are finding it increasingly difficult to obtain cosmetics, mainly because of limited foreign currency and bias by manufacturers towards a “white ideal” of beauty.
“Black women are not aware of themselves,” was a typical remark of manufacturers interviewed, “Their main preference is for strong perfumes and skin-lightening creams.”
Although the more progressive manufacturers supply dark foundation creams and powders, these are not dark enough for the average black complexion.
“African women have a natural glow and bloom and it should not be spoilt by cosmetics,” said one beautician.
Black girls interviewed felt there was a general mental block to an appreciation of black beauty which was responsible for their exclusion from the beauty world.
“To look good in the range offered, black women are almost forced to use skin-lightening creams. The white idea of beauty is really pushed in this country,” said a model. “The correct use of colour is vital in making up a woman’s face, it enhances her natural beauty,” said a leading Harare beauty consultant.
“The tone of her skin and her powder, eye and lip colour must complement each other”, she said. Many black women have had to improvise to get colours they want, “I grind dark brick to give me the right shade of powder,” said Susan, a secretary in Harare.
“For lipsticks, l mix black eyeliner with the pink lip-stick colours available in shops.
Cosmetics for women in most parts of the world are regarded as something of a necessity. Almost since Eve gave the apple to Adam, women have painted themselves to attract the opposite sex.
In Zimbabwe last year, women spent $9 million on cosmetics. During the war, the foreign currency allocation for cosmetics was never cut. One cosmetics manufacturer said: “When woman looks good, it’s good for the country, because her morale is high and this is transmitted to her husband and children.”
Lessons for today:
- The passage teaches us about the struggles black women have faced in the beauty industry, the importance of inclusivity, and the strength and creativity they have shown in overcoming these challenges. It calls for a broader appreciation and celebration of diverse beauty standards.
- Beauty standards have historically been biased towards a “white ideal,” making it difficult for black women to find suitable cosmetics. This bias reflects broader societal prejudices and the marginalisation of black beauty.
- Despite these challenges, black women have shown remarkable resourcefulness and resilience. They have found creative ways to adapt and create their own beauty solutions, such as mixing different products to achieve the desired look.
- There is also the economic aspect, noting the significant amount spent on cosmetics and the belief that a woman’s appearance can positively influence her family’s morale.
