With May being Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, it’s important to amplify AAPI brands and artists making waves in the hair and beauty industries. Whether it’s by showcasing them on social media or adding to your Sephora cart, shopping AAPI-owned brands is more important than ever.
From highlighters to setting sprays, here are eight beauty products from AAPI-owned brands you need in your makeup bag.
Tower 28 Beauty SuperDew Highlight Balm
The SuperDew Highlight Balm from Tower 28 Beauty provides the perfect amount of shine without added shimmer or glitter. Going for a more “glassy” look, the lightweight cream pairs beautifully with other makeup or by itself. It’s also super hydrating and soothing for the skin. Not to mention, it’s vegan and cruelty-free.
Promising review from Sephora: Ali says, “This is the most versatile highlighter I have ever used. It is beautiful on its own and as a topper. It’s not greasy or sticky, it just gives you a glass-like finish that actually improves the texture of your skin.”
Velour Beauty Mink Lashes
Velour Beauty’s Flawless Luxe Faux Mink False Lashes are comfortable, natural looking and easy to apply. The layered lashes add dimension to the eyes while enhancing length and volume. Made to mimic your natural lashes, they’re reusable, lightweight and look gorgeous on everyone! Plus, they’re long-lasting.
Promising review from Ulta: Lizzie says, “I really love these! They’re forever going to be my signature lashes because they last such a long time. They’re definitely reusable and are good quality. They also curl nicely and can be effortlessly applied.”
CLE Cosmetics Melting Lip Powder
Another AAPI-owned beauty product you need is the Melting Lip Powder from CLE Cosmetics. The powder formula melts into lips to provide a creamy stain that will last all day long. It contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to nourish the lips and comes in several different color options. It’s even waterproof!
Promising review from Revolve: Veronica says, “I really liked this lip powder. It goes on smoothly, with no mess at all and lasts a long time. It does not make your lips dry.”
Cocokind Raspberry Vinegar Toner
Cocokind’s Raspberry Vinegar Toner is an antioxidant rich product that improves radiance and texture of the skin. Great for those with oily skin, the toner also helps cleanse and balance complexions. It even unclogs pores, calms skin and is the perfect base for a face of makeup.
Promising review from Amazon: Lindsay says, “I have oily/dry combo, acne prone skin and this toner is amazing! It helps keep my face clear and doesn’t dry it out. I also love the clean ingredients!”
Peach & Lily Blurring Primer
The Skin Shield Blurring Primer from Peach & Lily is another AAPI-owned product worth trying out. It blurs pores, softens texture and smooths skin for seamless makeup application. It also acts as a barrier and protects skin from pollution and blue light. Plus, it’s vegan, cruelty-free and won’t cause breakouts.
Promising review from Ulta: Kathy says, “This stuff is awesome and leaves a nice very slight glow, even without any makeup. With makeup, it leaves the skin with a nice smooth texture to apply on top of.”
Tatcha Silk Powder
Tatcha’s Silk Powder Protective Setting Powder is great for all skin types, blurring pores, setting makeup and providing a radiant finish. The talc-free product also targets uneven skin texture, minimizes the appearance of fine lines and reduces oiliness. Not to mention, it works all day to reduce unwanted shine and provides a flawless complexion.
Promising review from Tatcha: Peg says, “This makes your skin feel amazing and does not settle in the lines or appear cakey. It covers redness and spots without looking like there is anything on your skin.”
Glow Recipe Watermelon Mist
Another game-changing AAPI-owned beauty product is Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist. Perfect for refreshing the skin and reviving makeup, the spray is super nourishing and leaves you with a gorgeous glow. It’s great for all skin types, adding major hydration and brightness.
Promising review from Glow Recipe: Sara says, “This may be the best mist I have ever tried! It really is ultra-fine, which I love, and it smells lovely. It’s great to use as a hydrating step between other products during my routine.”
Em Cosmetics Tinted SPF
Last but not least, the Daydream Cushion Tinted SPF from Em Cosmetics is everything. Not only does it protect skin from the sun, but it provides sheer to medium coverage as well. The buildable formula is great for those who want to enhance skin tone but still look natural. Not to mention, the SPF keeps skin hydrated and helps refine texture.
Promising review from Em Cosmetics: Aly says, “This is such a lovely, light coverage foundation. It evens out my skin tone, brightens my complexion and feels so light on the skin. This is the best foundation I have ever used.
Reviews have been edited for length and clarity.
Which AAPI-owned beauty products do you love? Let us know in the comments!
