Ep.98: Beauty Influencer Demi Colleen on diversity, racism and why quitting is so rewarding

This week’s guest is Demi Colleen, AKA Beauty Influencer of the Year at the recent Blogosphere awards here in the UK. For me, Demi is beyond anything that you might assume of an influencer in the traditional sense. She might be an influencer but she’s not afraid of making beauty brands accountable when it comes to diversity, inclusion and outright racism.

Since launching her blog in 2017 Demi, who is of Jamaican and Irish descent, has carved out her own niche, so, in this episode I wanted to find out what started her on her journey into beauty content. I also had to ask about her ongoing argument with UK chemist and beauty chain, Boots, and we discuss the trauma and shame that often comes with purchasing products that are made with black people and people of colour in mind.

I find out what made Demi quit her studying – she had hoped to become a solicitor – and we discuss the bravery that is required when it’s time to quit something that was initially a priority.

Honestly, I feel you will gain so much from listening to this episode! Do please rate and review and please share with someone you think could benefit from listening.

You can find Demi on Instagram @demicolleen and you'll find @beautymepodcast on Instagram and Twitter and be sure to sign up for my newsletter https://beautymenotes.substack.com. You can also find me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKuq1As9ifCJOxvPOv6w3wQ

Products mentioned:

PSA The Most Hyaluronic Super Nutrient Hydration Serum: https://www.beautybay.com/p/psa-skin/the-most-hyaluronic-super-nutrient-hydration-serum/

e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream: https://www.boots.com/elf-holy-hydration-face-cream-fragrance-free-50g-10274444

elf Holy Hydration Eye Cream: https://www.boots.com/toiletries/skincare/facial-skincare/eye-cream/elf-illuminating-eye-cream-14g-10259611

elf Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser: https://www.boots.com/toiletries/skincare/skincare-all-skincare/elf-holy-hydration%21-daily-cleanser--110ml-10292606

Holifrog Galilee Antioxidant Dewy Drop: https://www.beautybay.com/p/holifrog/galilee-antioxidant-dewy-drop/

Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF50: https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/supergoop-play-everyday-lotion-spf-50-with-sunflower-extract/13313315.html

Carbon Theory Day-Lite SPF50: https://carbontheory.com/products/day-lite-sunscreen-spf-50

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: https://www.paulaschoice.co.uk/skin-perfecting-bha-liquid-exfoliant/m2010.html