Why Nairobi’s beauty lovers are rethinking their routines

I was scrolling through my socials and landed on a series of “maintenance day” videos, and one thing was very clear; maintenance is not cheap. I’ll be honest, I dread it most days, but the end results always soften the blow. Somehow, the glow makes the time, effort and money feel worth it. Girl math, if you ask me.

You’ll agree with me that beauty in Nairobi is no longer just about looking good, it’s about intention. From hair treatments to skin analysis and wellness, more Kenyans are paying closer attention to what they put on their skin and hair.

A quick scroll online shows the shift. Ingredient lists matter now. So does where products are made and whether they actually work for different skin types and hair, this is where reviews come in handy. Beauty has moved from being aspirational to being personal. Local beauty brands are getting better, creators are becoming educators, and wellness is being treated as part of the beauty conversation.

“This inaugural edition is a milestone for the beauty industry in Kenya and across East Africa,” said the organizers. “We’re thrilled to bring together a diverse community of brands, creators, and beauty enthusiasts to celebrate the innovation and creativity shaping the future of beauty in Africa. Nairobi Beauty Week is a space to discover, learn, connect, and be inspired.”

For me, beauty has always been about small, intentional rituals. A good skincare routine, a scent that feels like you and wellness that doesn’t feel complicated. Seeing Nairobi create spaces that reflect this feels timely and necessary

As the city’s beauty scene continues to take shape, one thing is clear: this conversation is only just beginning.