Black Actresses Who Claim Hollywood Still Fails Them on Hair and Makeup

The entertainment industry often presents a polished image of glamour and perfection on the silver screen. However many Black actresses have stepped forward to reveal a recurring struggle with hair and makeup departments that are unprepared to handle their specific needs. These professionals frequently encounter stylists who lack the training or the products required to work with diverse textures and skin tones. This systemic issue forces many performers to take their beauty routines into their own hands while on the job. The following list highlights women in the industry who have spoken out about these ongoing challenges in Hollywood.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson has frequently discussed the lack of skilled stylists for Black hair on professional sets. She recalled several instances where she had to do her own hair to avoid permanent damage. The actress explained that she often brings her own styling kit to ensure her hair is handled correctly. Her experiences eventually led her to launch a specialized hair care line. She continues to advocate for mandatory diversity training for all beauty professionals in the entertainment industry.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union shared that early in her career she faced many challenges regarding her appearance on screen. She noted that many stylists did not know how to work with her skin tone or hair texture. This often resulted in her appearing ashy or having her hair damaged by excessive heat. Union has been vocal about the need for more diversity behind the scenes to address these issues. She believes that systemic change is necessary to provide equal care for every performer on a set.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis has spoken about the difficulty of finding makeup artists who understand dark skin tones. She mentioned that during her time on ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ she worked closely with her team to ensure her natural beauty was represented accurately. Davis has highlighted that many Black actresses are forced to do their own makeup before arriving for filming. She views this as a significant professional oversight that needs immediate attention. The actress continues to push for inclusivity in every department of film production.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o once called out a magazine for editing out her natural hair on a cover photo. She expressed that her coils and kinks are an essential part of her identity and should be celebrated rather than hidden. Nyong’o has often encountered stylists who lack the knowledge to style her hair without causing harm. She uses her platform to educate the industry on the importance of diverse beauty standards. Her advocacy aims to ensure future generations of actresses do not face the same obstacles.

Tia Mowry

Tia Mowry has been open about the hair struggles she faced while filming the hit show ‘Sister, Sister’ in the nineties. She explained that there was a lack of understanding regarding how to care for her natural curls. The actress felt pressured to straighten her hair to fit a certain look during that era. Mowry now celebrates her natural texture and encourages other performers to do the same. She believes that the industry has a long way to go in truly supporting textured hair.

Tamera Mowry-Housley

Tamera Mowry-Housley echoed her sister’s sentiments regarding the challenges of styling natural hair on television. She recalled times when she felt her hair was being mishandled by stylists who were not familiar with her hair type. This led to a lack of confidence in the hair and makeup trailer during various productions. Tamera has since become a proponent for better education for stylists working in Hollywood. She often shares her hair journey to inspire others to embrace their natural state.

Yvette Nicole Brown

Yvette Nicole Brown has frequently tweeted about her experiences with hair and makeup on various sets. She mentioned that she often has to bring her own foundation and hair products to ensure she looks her best. Brown pointed out that it is exhausting to have to do an extra job while trying to focus on acting. She has called for productions to hire stylists who are proficient in all hair types and skin tones. The actress remains a strong voice for equity in the beauty trailer.

Zendaya

Zendaya has been very public about her decision to do her own makeup for major red carpet events. She started doing this after having negative experiences with professional artists who did not understand her features. The ‘Euphoria’ star wants to ensure that she looks like herself when she is in front of the camera. She has also spoken about the importance of protecting her natural hair from damage on set. Zendaya uses her influence to promote a more inclusive definition of beauty.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin has discussed the difficulties of being a young Black girl in an industry that does not always cater to her hair. She noted that she has had to advocate for herself at a very young age to prevent hair damage. The ‘Black-ish’ actress often works with a dedicated team who understands her needs. Martin believes that all young performers should have access to stylists who can care for their hair properly. She is determined to change the narrative for Black girls in Hollywood.

Regina King

Regina King has shared stories about the early days of her career when she had to navigate inexperienced hair and makeup teams. She emphasized that knowing how to handle Black hair and skin should be a basic requirement for the job. King has often had to step in and guide stylists on how to achieve the right look for her characters. She values the professionals who have taken the time to learn these essential skills. The Oscar winner continues to support efforts for better representation in technical roles.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae has used her platform to highlight the beauty of natural hair through her show ‘Insecure’ on television. She made it a point to showcase various natural styles to normalize them in the media. Rae has spoken about the struggle of finding stylists who can execute these looks with care. She believes that seeing diverse hair on screen is vital for cultural representation. The creator and actress remains committed to pushing for more Black professionals in the hair and makeup departments.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross has been a lifelong advocate for the beauty of curly and coily hair. She often shares her own hair care routines and the challenges she has faced on sets. Ross noticed a significant gap in the market and the industry for products that truly work for her texture. This led her to create her own successful hair care brand to fill that void. She continues to speak out about the need for stylists to be educated on all hair types.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good has talked about her experiences with makeup artists who struggled to find the right shades for her skin. She often felt that her makeup did not reflect her actual complexion in her early films. The actress has learned to be very vocal about what works for her over the years. Good emphasizes that it is a collaborative process and that stylists must be willing to learn. She hopes to see more specialized training become standard in the industry.

Nathalie Emmanuel

Nathalie Emmanuel has shared her frustrations with stylists who did not know how to manage her natural curls. While filming ‘Game of Thrones’ she worked to ensure her hair remained healthy despite the demands of production. Emmanuel has noted that many stylists are intimidated by textured hair because they were never taught how to handle it. She believes that beauty schools and industry unions must prioritize inclusive education. The actress often wears her hair natural to promote visibility and acceptance.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington has discussed the importance of having a glam team that understands her unique features. She has had experiences where she felt she had to intervene to get the right look for a role. The ‘Scandal’ star believes that proper hair and makeup are essential tools for an actor to build a character. Washington has advocated for more Black artists to be hired in these key positions. She sees it as a matter of both professional respect and artistic necessity.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer has been very open about her skin struggles and the impact of heavy set makeup. She has shared that not all artists know how to apply products in a way that is safe for her skin type. Palmer often takes a hands-on approach to her beauty looks to ensure she feels comfortable. She has encouraged her fans to speak up for themselves when they are in professional settings. The actress remains a relatable and honest voice regarding Hollywood beauty standards.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris made headlines for her beautiful natural hairstyles in the film ‘Chi-Raq’ and other projects. She has spoken about the resistance she sometimes faces when wanting to wear her hair natural on screen. Parris believes that her hair is a powerful statement and an integral part of her roles. She has encountered stylists who were unsure how to braid or style her hair properly. The actress continues to champion the beauty of natural Black hair in all its forms.

Danielle Brooks

Danielle Brooks has spoken about the lack of options for Black women in the makeup trailer. She mentioned that she often sees a wide variety of products for her white co-stars but very few for her. The ‘Orange Is the New Black’ star has pushed for more inclusivity in the brands that are used on sets. Brooks believes that every actor should feel seen and catered to during the preparation process. she continues to be a vocal advocate for body positivity and beauty diversity.

Natasha Rothwell

Natasha Rothwell has shared her experiences of having to bring her own makeup to sets to ensure a proper match. She highlighted the awkwardness of having to explain to a professional that their products do not work for her. Rothwell believes that this is a systemic failure that places an extra burden on Black performers. She has called for industry-wide changes to ensure that all trailers are fully equipped for everyone. The actress and writer uses humor to address these very real professional hurdles.

Loni Love

Loni Love has spoken about the difficulties of finding hair stylists who can work with wigs and weaves on television. She has often had to rely on her own personal stylists to get the results she needs for her appearances. Love pointed out that many union stylists are not required to learn these specific skills. She believes this creates an unfair environment for Black talent who must spend their own money to look professional. The comedian and host continues to raise awareness about this discrepancy.

Amber Riley

Amber Riley has discussed the emotional toll of having her hair mishandled on various productions. She recalled instances where she felt her hair was being treated as a problem rather than an asset. Riley has since learned to set firm boundaries regarding who touches her hair on set. She believes that having a knowledgeable stylist is a matter of self-care and professional safety. The singer and actress continues to share her journey to empower others in the industry.

Gabourey Sidibe

Gabourey Sidibe has been vocal about the lack of understanding surrounding her hair and skin needs. She has encountered makeup artists who used the wrong undertones for her complexion. Sidibe has also dealt with stylists who did not know how to properly care for her hair texture. She emphasizes that these issues can affect a performer’s confidence and performance. The actress advocates for a more inclusive approach to beauty in film and television.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph has a long history in the entertainment industry and has seen these issues persist for decades. She recalled having to carry her own makeup kit since her early days on Broadway. Ralph has spoken about the importance of Black actresses knowing how to do their own hair and makeup as a survival skill. She is pleased to see more conversation around the topic today but insists more action is needed. The ‘Abbott Elementary’ star continues to mentor younger actresses on navigating these challenges.

Mo’Nique

Mo’Nique has frequently addressed the lack of professional care for Black actresses in the beauty department. she has shared stories of having to stand her ground to ensure her hair and makeup were done correctly. The Oscar winner believes that this is part of a larger issue regarding the treatment of Black women in Hollywood. Mo’Nique has called for more accountability and higher standards for all production crews. She remains a firm advocate for fair treatment and professional excellence.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish has spoken about the importance of having a stylist who knows how to work with her hair. She has had experiences where her hair was damaged due to a lack of knowledge on set. Haddish now makes it a point to work with people she trusts and who understand her needs. She believes that the industry needs to invest more in training for all stylists. The comedian and actress often uses her platform to highlight the talented Black artists she works with.

Zazie Beetz

Zazie Beetz has discussed her decision to wear her natural hair in many of her high-profile roles. She has noted that it can be a struggle to find stylists who are comfortable working with her afro. Beetz believes that her hair is an important part of her identity and her characters. She has encountered situations where stylists tried to change her hair because they did not know how to style it. The ‘Joker’ actress continues to push for the normalization of natural hair in film.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback has shared her journey of learning to advocate for her hair and makeup needs. She has spoken about the anxiety of sitting in a chair with someone who does not understand her texture. Fishback emphasizes that it is important for actresses to feel empowered to speak up. She has seen improvements but believes there is still a significant knowledge gap in the industry. The actress values the collaborative relationships she builds with stylists who are willing to learn.

Andra Day

Andra Day has discussed the challenges of maintaining her vintage-inspired hairstyles for her roles. She noted that it requires a high level of skill that not all stylists possess. Day has worked closely with her team to ensure her hair remains healthy and stylish. She has also spoken about the importance of getting her makeup right to reflect the periods she portrays. The singer and actress believes that attention to detail in beauty is crucial for authentic storytelling.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo has been very open about her love for bold and unique beauty looks. She has often had to work with her own specialists to achieve the intricate designs she envisions. Erivo has highlighted that many industry professionals are not trained in the specific techniques needed for her styles. She believes that the beauty trailer should be a place of creativity and inclusion for everyone. The actress continues to push boundaries with her red carpet and on-screen appearances.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe has built a career on her distinct and meticulously crafted aesthetic. She has spoken about the importance of having a team that can execute her vision with precision. Monáe has encountered stylists who were unable to work with the natural texture of her hair. She advocates for more Black creatives to be given opportunities in the hair and makeup departments. The artist believes that representation behind the camera is just as important as on screen.

Ryan Michelle Bathe

Ryan Michelle Bathe has shared her experiences of having to do her own hair for television roles. She noted that it is a common experience for many Black actresses who do not trust the on-set stylists. Bathe believes that this adds an unnecessary layer of stress to the workday. She has called for the industry to recognize this as a professional disparity that needs to be fixed. The actress remains hopeful that the current conversations will lead to lasting change.

Aja Naomi King

Aja Naomi King has spoken about the pressure to conform to certain beauty standards in Hollywood. She has had experiences where her makeup did not suit her skin tone or her hair was mistreated. King believes that it is essential for stylists to be educated on the needs of all performers. She has learned to be more assertive about her beauty needs as her career has progressed. The ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ star continues to advocate for a more inclusive beauty industry.

Sonequa Martin-Green

Sonequa Martin-Green has discussed the importance of hair representation in the science fiction genre. As the lead in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ she worked to ensure her hair was styled in ways that felt authentic and futuristic. She has spoken about the challenges of finding stylists who can handle the rigors of long filming days. Martin-Green believes that seeing varied hair textures in space is a significant step forward for representation. She remains committed to showing the beauty and versatility of Black hair.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams has a long career in the public eye and has experienced the evolution of beauty standards. She has recalled times when she had to be her own advocate to ensure she looked her best. Williams noted that the industry has become more aware of these issues but still lacks consistency. She believes that mentorship and training are the keys to improving the situation for future actresses. The star continues to share her wisdom on maintaining professional standards in beauty.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan made a major statement when she shaved her head for a role and embraced her natural hair journey. She has spoken about the liberation of moving away from traditional Hollywood hair expectations. Lathan has encountered many stylists over the years who struggled with textured hair. She believes that the industry should celebrate all forms of beauty including shaved heads and natural coils. The actress continues to be an inspiration for those looking to embrace their natural selves.

Nia Long

Nia Long has discussed her experiences with stylists who did not know how to properly care for her hair and skin. She emphasized that she has had to learn what works for her to protect herself on set. Long believes that it is a sign of respect for a production to provide qualified professionals for all its actors. She has seen many talented Black stylists being overlooked for major projects. The actress continues to advocate for more diversity in the hiring process.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais has shared her frustrations with the lack of diversity in the hair and makeup trailers. She noted that even on major productions she often finds a lack of suitable products for her skin. Beauvais has spoken about the importance of having stylists who understand the nuances of Black beauty. She believes that it is time for the industry to move beyond basic excuses and make real changes. The actress and television personality remains a vocal critic of the current system.

Retta

Retta has used her signature humor to address the hair and makeup struggles she has faced. She has talked about the importance of having stylists who are not afraid of her hair texture. Retta often brings her own products to ensure that she is happy with the final result. She believes that everyone should have the right to feel confident in the makeup chair. The actress continues to share her experiences to bring light to these common industry issues.

Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton has spoken about the challenges of working in an industry that often overlooks the needs of mixed-race performers. She has encountered stylists who were unsure how to handle her specific hair and skin requirements. Newton believes that the industry needs to broaden its understanding of what beauty looks like. She has been a strong advocate for more inclusive practices in all areas of film production. The actress values the stylists who take a thoughtful and informed approach to their work.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris has discussed her experiences with hair and makeup on large-scale international film sets. She noted that while some progress has been made there are still many gaps in knowledge. Harris has had to work closely with her team to ensure her looks are consistent and flattering. She believes that the industry should prioritize hiring professionals with a wide range of skills. The actress remains a proponent for higher standards of care for all performers.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch has spoken about the importance of her hair as a form of expression in her roles. For her role in ‘No Time to Die’ she wanted to ensure her hair was styled in a way that felt powerful and authentic. Lynch has encountered stylists who were not equipped to work with her hair texture. She believes that representation starts in the trailer and should be reflected on the screen. The actress continues to advocate for the inclusion of Black hair and makeup artists on every set.

Tessa Thompson

Tessa Thompson has been a vocal leader in the push for more diversity in Hollywood through the Time’s Up movement. She has often spoken about the need for better hair and makeup services for Black actors. Thompson has worked to include clauses in her contracts that ensure her beauty needs are met by qualified professionals. She believes that this is a matter of professional equity and worker rights. The actress continues to use her platform to drive systemic change in the industry.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi has been a prominent voice for her generation regarding beauty and identity. She has spoken about the importance of protecting her curls and ensuring she looks like herself on screen. Shahidi has encountered stylists who did not have the right tools to work with her hair. She believes that the industry should be a place where all textures and skin tones are celebrated. The ‘Grown-ish’ star continues to promote a more inclusive and representative media landscape.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning has shared her experiences with hair care on the set of ‘Dear White People’ and other projects. she has emphasized the need for stylists who understand the specific needs of natural hair. Browning has worked with her team to create iconic looks that celebrate her curls. She believes that education is the key to solving the disparity in the beauty trailer. The actress continues to advocate for more resources and training for all industry professionals.

Candice Patton

Candice Patton has been very vocal about her struggles with hair and makeup on the set of ‘The Flash’. She shared that for many seasons she had to find her own stylists and products to ensure she looked her best. Patton pointed out that this was an added burden that her white co-stars did not have to deal with. She has called for more accountability from networks and production companies. The actress remains a powerful advocate for equal treatment for Black women in television.

Javicia Leslie

Javicia Leslie has discussed the importance of having a supportive hair and makeup team as she took on the role of ‘Batwoman’. She worked to ensure that her natural hair was integrated into her character’s look. Leslie has encountered stylists who were not familiar with how to care for her hair under a wig or mask. She believes that having the right team is essential for both her performance and her well-being. The actress continues to champion the need for more diverse professionals in the industry.

Monique Coleman

Monique Coleman revealed that she wore headbands in ‘High School Musical’ because the stylists did not know how to do her hair. She shared that this was a way to hide the fact that her hair was not being properly cared for on set. Coleman has used this experience to speak out about the lack of preparation for Black performers. She believes that no actor should have to cover up their hair because of a lack of professional skill. The actress and advocate continues to push for better standards in the industry.

Skai Jackson

Skai Jackson has been in the industry since she was a child and has seen the challenges firsthand. She has spoken about the importance of parents advocating for their children in the hair and makeup chair. Jackson has had experiences where she felt her natural hair was not being handled with care. She believes that all young performers deserve to have their unique beauty respected and maintained. The actress and author continues to be a role model for young girls in Hollywood.

Rutina Wesley

Rutina Wesley has shared her experiences with hair and makeup during her time on ‘True Blood’ and other series. She noted that it is vital to have a team that understands how to light and style dark skin and textured hair. Wesley has often had to provide her own feedback to ensure the best results. She believes that the industry is slowly improving but still requires more dedicated effort. The actress values the professionals who are committed to learning and growing their skills.

Anika Noni Rose

Anika Noni Rose has discussed the importance of authentic representation in her various roles. She has encountered stylists who were not prepared to handle the diverse looks she has required throughout her career. Rose believes that the beauty department is an essential part of the storytelling process. She has advocated for more Black artists to be included in the unions and hired for major productions. The actress remains a strong voice for excellence and inclusion in all aspects of entertainment.

Please share your thoughts on these industry challenges in the comments.