A Scoping Review of Black American Beauty Studies From 1995 to 2022

Abstract

Existing reviews focus on issues affecting Black Americans or beauty standards, respectively. In comparison, this scoping review identifies studies that address both topics. The 39 selected publications revealed that hair, beauty standards, and body image were the most studied areas within Black American beauty. Studies were synthesized into three themes: (a) relationship to Eurocentric beauty standards, (b) community influence, and (c) intersectional approaches. While Black American beauty standards exist, Black women’s relationship to their intracultural beauty standard is fluid and dependent on multiple factors. The search criteria differentiated the types of methods included in the review but also reduced the number of empirical studies included. Future research should focus on the relationship between beauty rituals, Black American beauty ideals, and their relationship to skincare, haircare, or cosmetics.