1. Flawless Skin: The Glow Is Real
In Nigeria, having flawless, glowing skin has always been seen as a sign of beauty and good health. But in the last decade, Nigerian celebrities have taken skincare to a whole new level. If you look at the likes of Toke Makinwa, Beverly Naya, and Rita Dominic, you’ll see that their skin is almost as famous as their careers. Their skin practically glows, and it’s no accident.
Many Nigerian celebrities have invested heavily in skincare, with routines that include everything from hydration and moisturizing to exfoliation and targeted treatments for hyperpigmentation. Celebrities are known to use serums, face oils, and masks, and some even undergo professional treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and facials at luxury spas in Lagos and Abuja. The demand for clear, glowing skin has led to an increased awareness of skincare in Nigeria, with more people willing to invest in good products.
Popular Trend Alert: Glass skin and Korean-inspired beauty routines have made their way to Nigeria, as celebrities and influencers rave about them on social media. Although Nigeria’s hot and humid climate isn’t always ideal for intense layering, local brands have developed “lightweight” glass skin routines, making it achievable for everyday Nigerians.
2. Bold, Defined Brows: Brows That Speak Before You Do
In the beauty world, brows have become almost as important as the eyes. Bold, thick, well-defined brows are a trend Nigerian celebrities like Nancy Isime and Mercy Aigbe swear by. The look is about having brows that are not only full but also perfectly shaped to suit one’s face. With this trend, celebrities opt for techniques like microblading, brow tinting, and lamination to get their brows “on fleek” for months without much maintenance.
Even makeup brands in Nigeria have caught on, and many offer eyebrow pencils, pomades, and gels that help fans achieve these brows at home. Eyebrow grooming services in Nigeria’s beauty salons have also taken it up a notch, with skilled professionals shaping, threading, and tinting brows to perfection.
Popular Trend Alert: Feathered and soap brows have become a huge trend, especially among models and actors in Nollywood. These brows are brushed upwards, giving them a naturally full look while still appearing polished. This style gives an effortless, everyday look that feels just as glam.
3. Long, Flowy Wigs
Nigerians have always loved their hair, but in recent years, the wig game has changed drastically. Gone are the days when wearing wigs was simply a way to cover up natural hair. Now, wigs are a full-on fashion statement! Celebrities like Tiwa Savage, Ini Edo, and Tacha Akide have made wigs a must-have beauty accessory. From bone-straight styles to curly afros and colorful bob cuts, wigs are an easy way to switch up looks and stay trendy.
Nigerian hairstylists are now at the forefront, creating custom wigs that rival those in Hollywood. With lace fronts, HD lace, and 360-degree lace wigs, people can get the illusion of a natural hairline, which makes these wigs almost undetectable. Moreover, Nigerian-made wigs are now in high demand internationally because of their high quality.
Popular Trend Alert: The “bone straight” wig trend exploded in Nigeria in 2020, and it hasn’t gone anywhere since. This style, as the name implies, is straight, silky, and sleek, making it a favorite for both casual and glamorous looks. Many Nigerian women aspire to own at least one bone-straight wig in their lifetime, with some even seeing it as a status symbol.
4. Dramatic Eye Makeup
The world may have shifted towards minimalist makeup in recent years, but when it comes to eye makeup, Nigerian celebrities go big or go home. Eyes that captivate and mesmerize are a staple in Nigerian beauty, and celebrities like Adesua Etomi, Simi, and Genevieve Nnaji have all been seen rocking dramatic eyes on and off the red carpet.
From cat eyes to smoky eyes, Nigerian celebs have embraced eye makeup that draws attention. This trend includes the use of bold eyeliners, eyeshadows in vibrant colors, and, of course, dramatic eyelashes. False lashes are practically an essential in Nigeria’s beauty routine, with many celebrities going for full lashes that add intensity to their looks. For special events, makeup artists go all out with glitter, cut creases, and even gems to make eyes pop.
Popular Trend Alert: Floating eyeliner and colorful winged liner are recent additions to the lineup. Influenced by global trends, these looks involve applying liner in unusual shapes or adding bright colors to the classic cat-eye, creating a bold statement.
5. Body Contouring and Sculpting
In Nigeria, curves have always been celebrated, but today’s celebrities have brought body contouring and sculpting to the forefront. Nigerian influencers and celebrities like Mercy Eke and Toke Makinwa have spoken about undergoing non-invasive treatments to enhance their curves. These treatments include waist trainers, body sculpting massages, and even surgical procedures like liposuction and the Brazilian butt lift (BBL).
The acceptance and celebration of curvy bodies have also led to the rise of body positivity among Nigerian women. Plus-size celebrities like Eniola Badmus have empowered fans by embracing their curves and reminding them that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
Popular Trend Alert: Waist trainers are a staple among many Nigerian women, with celebrities endorsing them as a way to achieve that “snatched” waistline. Some even wear them during workouts for extra definition, although this trend has its critics who warn of health risks.
6. Matte Lip Colors: A Pop of Color, Nigerian Style
Nothing says glam quite like a bold lip color, and Nigerian celebrities know this well. Whether it’s a night out or a casual outing, many Nigerian celebrities are spotted with perfectly done matte lip colors. From classic reds to deep purples and vibrant pinks, matte lipstick is the go-to for creating a statement look.
Matte lips have become so popular in Nigeria that even local makeup brands now offer matte lipsticks in every shade imaginable. Celebrities like Osas Ighodaro, Tonto Dikeh, and Yemi Alade are known for rocking this look, giving their fans inspiration for various occasions. Matte lips are long-lasting, making them perfect for Nigeria’s hot climate.
Popular Trend Alert: Nude matte lips have also made a huge comeback, with shades that complement a range of Nigerian skin tones. Paired with bold eye makeup, this lip look gives a balanced yet striking finish.
7. Highlight and Contour: For That Snatched Look
One thing Nigerian makeup artists have mastered is the art of highlighting and contouring. In Nigeria, makeup is not just about looking pretty; it’s about transforming one’s look entirely. Contouring helps define the cheekbones, jawline, and nose, while highlighting brings attention to certain areas, giving the face a radiant glow.
Nigerian celebrities like Ini Dima-Okojie and Beverly Osu have embraced highlighting and contouring to perfection. The emphasis on cheekbones and jawlines, in particular, creates a “snatched” look that has become a staple in Nigerian makeup. With the help of skilled makeup artists, many celebrities achieve a red-carpet-ready look that is both glam and natural-looking.
Popular Trend Alert: Liquid highlighters are currently in vogue, offering a dewy and luminous finish that powder highlighters can’t quite replicate. For a “glow from within” look, celebrities often use liquid highlighter to give a softer, yet effective, glow.
8. Traditional Inspired Tattoos and Henna: African Heritage with a Modern Twist
Tattoos have become increasingly popular among Nigerian celebrities, but not just any tattoos—African-inspired tattoos. Celebrities like Tems and Burna Boy have embraced tattoos that reflect their African heritage. These tattoos often incorporate tribal patterns, symbols, and meanings that resonate with their identities.
Additionally, henna art has found a place in Nigerian celebrity culture, especially among those with Northern Nigerian roots. Henna has long been a tradition in Northern Nigeria, especially during wedding ceremonies. However, celebrities like Rahama Sadau have embraced henna for everyday use, bringing a cultural touch to their personal style.
Popular Trend Alert: Temporary tattoos and minimalist henna designs are trending for those who want to experiment without long-term commitment. The designs are typically simple and can be worn on hands, wrists, and ankles for a chic look.
9. Natural Hairstyles and Afros: Going Back to Roots
While wigs and weaves are still a big deal, there’s also a rising trend among Nigerian celebrities embracing their natural hair. In a country where straight and sleek has often been the beauty standard, natural hair is making waves, symbolizing empowerment and identity. Celebrities like Simi, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Nse Ikpe-Etim are some of the biggest advocates of natural hair, inspiring a whole generation of Nigerians to love their curls and coils.
This trend isn’t limited to just wearing their hair naturally; it’s also about taking pride in African hairstyles. From afros and twist-outs to Bantu knots and cornrows, Nigerian celebrities are showcasing the versatility and beauty of natural African hair. The natural hair movement has pushed for more acceptance of kinky and coily textures, and many Nigerian women now feel empowered to wear their hair proudly, without fear of judgment.
Haircare routines have also become a focus, with celebrities investing in natural oils, leave-in conditioners, and protective styles to maintain the health and beauty of their natural hair. It’s become popular for celebrities to share their natural hair care journeys on social media, giving tips and product recommendations to help fans achieve healthy, vibrant natural hair.
Popular Trend Alert: The “afro puff” style is a chic and effortless way to style natural hair that’s taken off in Nigeria. With a little bit of edge control and a hair tie, many celebrities and everyday Nigerians are rocking high puffs, which give an elegant, yet playful look that’s suitable for all occasions.
10. Minimalist Makeup
While dramatic makeup has a big place in Nigerian beauty, there’s also a growing trend towards minimalist, natural-looking makeup. Celebrities like Ini Dima-Okojie, Sharon Ooja, and Adesua Etomi have become advocates for this fresh-faced look, opting for light foundation, subtle highlights, and barely-there eye makeup that accentuates natural beauty rather than masking it.
This approach emphasizes clear, radiant skin, groomed brows, and a hint of blush, giving off a youthful, healthy glow. It’s perfect for the Nigerian climate, where heavy makeup can feel uncomfortable. Many makeup brands now cater to this trend, offering lightweight foundations, tinted moisturizers, and cream blushes that give a dewy, natural finish.
Popular Trend Alert: The “no-makeup makeup” look has become a favorite among celebrities for daytime events or casual outings. This style uses minimal product but emphasizes features in a way that enhances beauty subtly, perfect for Nigerian women who want to look polished without overdoing it.
11. Personalized Accessories and Beauty Brands: The Rise of Celebrity-Led Products
An exciting trend among Nigerian celebrities is launching personalized beauty brands or accessories lines. Celebrities like Funke Akindele, Toke Makinwa, and Lola OJ have their own beauty lines, offering products that cater to the diverse skin tones and needs of Nigerian women. These brands often focus on affordability and quality, making them accessible to fans and followers across the country.
Celebrities use their influence to bring their fans closer to their routines, and launching beauty products is a way to let fans emulate their style directly. With products ranging from skincare to makeup and hair care, Nigerian celebrities are building their brands and leaving a legacy in the beauty industry.
Popular Trend Alert: The use of locally sourced ingredients in beauty products is increasingly popular, especially among natural and skincare brands. Shea butter, coconut oil, and African black soap are commonly used, tapping into Nigeria’s rich natural resources.
12. Redefining Standards of Beauty
Finally, Nigerian celebrities are using their platforms to advocate for broader definitions of beauty. Whether it’s Ini Edo celebrating her ebony skin tone, or Denola Grey pushing boundaries with androgynous fashion and makeup, Nigerian celebrities are redefining what it means to be beautiful in Nigeria.
In the past, there was often a preference for Eurocentric beauty standards, but now there is a movement to embrace diversity in skin tones, body shapes, and personal styles. This change is empowering, as it encourages Nigerians to be proud of their unique features, whether they have dark skin, thick hair, or full-figured bodies. Celebrities are normalizing diverse forms of beauty, and this acceptance is reflected in the beauty industry’s marketing, as well as in the products that are being developed.
Popular Trend Alert: Dark-skinned models and actresses are now more prominent in beauty campaigns, a welcome shift from past trends. This inclusivity is inspiring young Nigerians to embrace their natural beauty without feeling the need to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.
Conclusion
The beauty trends among Nigerian celebrities are diverse, vibrant, and rooted in both tradition and modernity. From flawless skin and bold brows to wigs that rival Hollywood and an acceptance of natural textures, Nigerian celebrities are setting trends that resonate with fans across the country and the African diaspora. The beauty industry in Nigeria is booming, with local brands and styles gaining traction not just locally but internationally.
These trends are about more than just appearance—they’re expressions of culture, identity, and empowerment. As Nigerian celebrities continue to embrace their roots while adopting new techniques, they inspire a generation of Nigerians to explore and celebrate their own beauty in new ways. Whether you’re going for a full-glam red carpet look or a natural, no-makeup face, there’s a beauty trend in Nigeria for everyone.