Everyone deserves to have beautiful, soft skin. One of my high school teachers once told me that you shouldn’t put anything on your skin that you wouldn’t feel safe consuming. That philosophy stuck with me, and since 2015, I’ve committed to taking a natural approach to skincare, perfecting each product I envision.
I start by testing everything on myself to ensure it’s safe, and my family has also joined me in testing and providing feedback. I’ve dedicated time to thoroughly researching every ingredient I use to ensure its safety and effectiveness. This journey has not only deepened my understanding of skincare but has also allowed me to reconnect with my culture and learn more about ancient beauty practices.
For example, I’ve explored the traditional uses and significance of shea butter in my culture and beyond. Growing up in both Burkina Faso and the United States, I faced many skin issues, including breakouts and a heightened sensitivity to environmental allergens. These challenges motivated me to invest time and effort into understanding skin health and finding solutions for various skin concerns.
At Jamil Glow, our goal is for everyone to achieve healthy, beautiful, glowing skin. This mission is deeply personal for me. Growing up, I often struggled with feelings of inadequacy due to the color of my skin. I was teased for being “too dark,” and I remember telling one of my aunts that when I got older and rich, I would bleach my skin. Looking back as an adult, I now understand the roots of those feelings—how self-hate, fueled by colorism, can be so damaging.
Even as I grew older, I continued to battle issues of colorism and how it shaped my experiences in the world. This brand is my way of healing my younger self while also setting an example for my siblings, nieces, and nephews. I want them to know that Black is beautiful, that melanin is valuable, and that there’s a space for them to feel confident and radiant—starting with their skin.
Colorism still exists, especially in the cosmetic and healthcare industries, where there’s a significant lack of understanding and research about Black skin. I’m determined to be part of the movement working to change that. At Jamil Glow, we’re not just creating skincare; we’re creating a legacy of empowerment and self-love.