BEAUTY

This week, we speak to brand founder Sharon Chuter about her inclusive beauty range; we also discover self-tan hacks, the latest skincare launches and pro-approved hair styling secrets

MORE THAN SKIN DEEP

PHOTO: JSQUARED

Having worked for the world’s biggest beauty brands, two years ago Nigerian-born Sharon Chuter (right) decided to set up her own: UOMA Beauty.

“I wanted to create a safe space for all those who have been left out,” she says. “I felt marginalised and I’m not the only one going through that.”

The London- and Los Angeles-based creative director explains: “There’s the misnomer in the market that when you’re black-owned, you’re an ethnic brand and only cater to people of colour. True inclusivity goes beyond the colour of skin – it’s about everybody.”

UOMA, meaning beautiful in the southern Nigerian language Igbo, is available nationwide at Boots. For Sharon, the retailers stocking her fledgling brand are setting an important precedent: “People can see your brand for what it is, beyond the colour of your skin. That is really important. For the next generation, representation matters.”