Spurred on by the Black Lives Matter movement, a collective of award winning Medical Professionals and Aestheticians in the beauty industry have formed the Black Aesthetics Advisory Board (BAAB) to investigate the experiences of black practitioners within aesthetics as well as those of black and minority ethnic patients and consumers. 

An initial survey found that black practitioners are facing higher levels of discrimination and less progression opportunities in the speciality and that black consumers have been found to experience difficulties in accessing practitioners confident in treating their aesthetic concerns.

"Given the worldwide re-emergence of the Black Lives Matter campaign and the poor experience voiced by black and minority ethnic professionals as well as consumers, we were shocked at the silence from many quarters of the aesthetic industry. Coupled with our knowledge of BME patient experience, we want to investigate and inform change; from ensuring all practitioners understand the needs of black skin to increased representation of black professionals at all industry levels. Through this, we are also able to positively impact the experience of black patients and professionals within aesthetics.” 

The board aims to produce a report which will provide guidance to brands and professionals, inform training and improve access to aesthetics for black patients. Likewise, the board will engage with all levels of the speciality with a purpose driven survey launching in early July and will form an advisory panel to effect change in the industry.

Meet The Board

A team of award winning Medical Professionals and Aestheticians in the beauty industry the Black Aesthetics Advisory Board (BAAB) includes:

Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme: Medical Consultant UCLH, Senior Aesthetics Lecturer at QMUL and Founder of award winning Adonia Medical Clinic 

Dr Tijion Esho: Founder and Director of award winning Esho Clinic and The Esho initiative. Resident doctor on Body Fixers and This Morning 

Dr Amiee Vyas: Founder and Director of Doctor Amiee Facial Aesthetics & Skin, Key Opinion Leader in cosmetic dermatology and Expert Aesthetic trainer 

Dija Ayodele: Expert Aesthetician, Founder of award winning Black Skin Directory

#Inconversation with - Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme

This week Natalie talks to NHS Medical Consultant & Aesthetic Doctor Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme. Discussing the impact of lockdown on self image, the need for more diversity in the beauty industry and having a baby during the pandemic Dr Ejikeme details her personal experience of lockdown whilst highlighting the need for change in the medical and aesthetic industries. Galvanised by the Black Lives Matter movement Dr Ejikeme also talks co founding the Black Aesthetics Advisory Board.

For More From Dr Ejikeme please visit Adonia Medical Clinic