Industry professionals join forces to launch Black Aesthetic Advisory Board

Four award-winning aesthetic professionals have joined forces to establish the Black Aesthetic Advisory Board (BAAB) with an aim to investigate the experiences of black practitioners within aesthetics, as well as those of black and minority ethnic patients and consumers.

Results from recent research suggest black practitioners are facing higher levels of discrimination and less progression opportunities. As well as this, the BAAB notes that black consumers have been found to experience difficulties in accessing practitioners who are confident in treating their aesthetic concerns.

Founded by Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, Dr Tijion Esho, Dr Aimee Vyas and Dija Ayodele, the BAAB aims to conduct further research and produce a report that will share guidance to brands and professionals, inform training and improve access to aesthetics for black patients.

Clockwise from top left: Dr Aimee Vyas, Dija Ayodele, Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme and Dr Tijon Esho

“Given the worldwide re-emergency of the Black Lives Matter campaign and the poor experience voiced by black and minority ethnic professionals, as well as consumers, we are shocked at the silence from many quarters of the aesthetic industry,” states the BAAB.

“Coupled with our knowledge of BME (black and minority ethnic) 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 with aesthetics.”