Kenyan beauty businesses are increasingly focusing on locally tailored formulations and products while drawing on cultural heritage and responding to social and economic concerns.
These businesses are also seeking to build their operations around local manufacturing, employment and initiatives targeting women and girls. One such example was highlighted at an event held at Trademark Hotel, Village Market, Nairobi, which brought together beauty consumers, including women from various organisations.
The event featured Ythera and Adea, two Kenyan beauty, personal care and wellness brands. It included product displays and interactive stations featuring fragrances and body-care products, including the Scent Soko, Butter Bar and Shower Gel Station.
Ythera was founded by entrepreneur Anna Njoroge and is named after her grandmother, Waithera. The brand draws on Kenyan heritage, with its interlaced “Y” design inspired by traditional Kikuyu neckpieces.
Adea, meaning “gift” in Swahili, is described as a range developed alongside Ythera, with products targeting women seeking fragrance and body-care options.
The businesses say their approach is based on formulation, ingredient combinations and sourcing, with an emphasis on ingredients they describe as harm-free.
They are also involved in local manufacturing and say their operations contribute to job creation and economic independence. A portion of proceeds supports the provision of menstrual cups to young girls, an initiative aimed at helping them remain in school.
Their product range includes fragrances and body mists such as Frangipani, Tuber Rose, Diani Magic, Citrus Cocktail and Midnight Wish. Other products include body washes, body creams and firming oils containing ingredients such as moringa, avocado, grapeseed oil and vitamin E.
The portfolio also includes hair and home-care products, including the Mosara haircare range, scented candles and room sprays.
During the event, Eva Mwangi, Head of Sales at Trademark Hotel, spoke about authenticity in leadership and the importance of maintaining personal identity, values and lived experience while advancing professionally.
Patricia Okello, Director of Conference Inbox, urged entrepreneurs and business leaders to translate their ideas into action and remain committed to their goals. She also encouraged business leaders to maintain positive relationships despite disappointments or conflicts.
The event brought together discussions on entrepreneurship, leadership and the development of locally made beauty and personal-care products, alongside the brands' focus on manufacturing and community initiatives.
Anne Njoroge, founder of Ythera Beauty (centre), Eva Mwangi, Head of Sales and Marketing at Trademark Hotel (left), and Patricia Okelo during the event showcasing Kenyan beauty brands Ythera and Adea, which are redefining the industry through locally tailored formulations, cultural heritage, self-love and social impact./John Muchucha
Founder Ann Njoroge takes center stage, surrounded by models and the Adea by the Ythera team, as they celebrate during an event featuring Kenyan beauty brands/JOHN MUCHUCHA
