Prepare to keep your eyes and ears on the television screen. Launching last fall on Xfinity is “The Black Beauty Effect,” a first-of-its-kind docuseries that delved into the change the beauty industry has seen over the past few years.

The story is told through the perspective of Black women who serve as a catalyst for social change in the industry, including actresses, beauty editors, corporate executives, historians, sociologists, influencers, beauty brand founders, and dermatologists. This includes our very own Haute Beauty expert, Dr. Dina D. Strachan. From creator, and actress Andrea Lewis, “The Black Beauty Effect” provides insights beyond your expectations over the course of the three-part series.  To get an insider’s outlook on the film, Haute Beauty sat down with Dr. Strachan. Here’s the conversation.

Haute Beauty: As an expert in the beauty industry, what is the stereotype you often hear about black beauty?

Dr. Dina D. Strachan: I would say that the stereotypes are that black beauty is one thing or that our goals are to look like someone else. Out of any group, black women invest the most in beauty but our specific needs have long been ignored.

HB: If there was one thing you’d hope viewers take away from watching the series, what would it be?

DS: That black beauty is mainstream.

HB: How have black women shaped beauty standards? 

DS: The needs of black women have historically been ignored or misunderstood. We often appear younger than our stated age, yet that doesn’t mean that we don’t age or have beauty needs. We have different beauty needs. For this reason, we have had to be innovative and creative regarding beauty and style. Black women have been the trailblazers in beauty inclusivity that has been to the benefit of everyone.

HB: What is your role in the series?

DS: I was an on-camera expert in the skin and hair episodes. I spoke about the underrepresentation of African Americans in dermatology, the impact of social media, the natural hair movement and more.

 

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HB: How has being a part of the series impacted your life? 

DS: It certainly has been an honor to be part of a bonafide Hollywood project. I walked the red carpet at the Regal Theater. I have an IMDB page. My patients have been excited that their dermatologist is part of the project and have said that it has helped them feel seen. Vendors have appreciated the educational value of the series and said that has piqued their interest to better understand how to serve a diverse community.

HB: The beauty industry is revolutionizing daily, where do you expect it to be in five years?

DS: I expect the beauty industry to be more bespoke with more of an emphasis on wellness and expression.

HB: Describe “The Black Beauty Effect” movement.

DS: For me “The Black Beauty Effect” is the courage to claim your beauty and let your light shine.

Xfinity is not the only provider with access to the docuseries. You can now watch “The Black Beauty Effect” for free by downloading the Xumo app.