5 min read
It’s Deeper Than Skin ®
It’s Deeper Than Skin ® is a compilation of interviews featuring diverse multicultural individuals each carrying unique aspirations and desires yet bound by a common passion to create a more joyful, diverse and inclusive space for us all. They inspire, empower and help transform the way we think and feel about beauty, culture, ancient traditions, diversity, mental health, societal standards and more. Through these multifaceted lenses, we learn to celebrate our uniqueness and are reminded once again that our beauty is deeper than skin.
Meet Aamirah Essof, the face behind @abrowngirlrecommends - a beauty lover turned trusted voice in the beauty space. What started as a passion for beauty has grown into a space where honesty and inclusivity take center stage - championing products that actually work, especially for deeper skin tones. Whether she’s breaking down ingredients or testing the latest must-haves, her content is as real as it gets. In this chat, we explore her journey, what fuels her passion, and how she’s getting Eid-ready in her own signature way.
Hi Aamirah! Let’s kick things off with you sharing a little bit about yourself. (We’d love to know a bit about your background and what you love to do!)
Hi! Well, I’m 33 and I’ve lived a lot of lives. I graduated with a Master Degree in Chemistry, travelled the world for 6 months, worked in retail for 2 years, moved to London, worked in a corporate company for 5 years, and I was also made redundant. My passion has always been beauty, ever since I can remember. I actually chose to study Chemistry because I wanted to be a cosmetic chemist. But during my thesis, I realised I didn’t enjoy being in a lab and I was definitely more of a people person.
When I graduated (in 2015 - omg!) I had no idea what I wanted to do. Social media was nothing like it is now, so that wasn’t even on my peripheral. I kind of stumbled into things but felt so lost. Even when I finally landed my “big girl” job in London, once the novelty wore off, I still felt like something was missing.
Little did I know, the 2020 pandemic would change everything…
What inspired you to create your beauty page, and how did it all begin?
I actually started this account from a random idea I had at 3 a.m. in July 2020. It was peak lockdown, and I was struggling to find an SPF with no white cast. As we couldn’t go into stores, I solely relied on reviews from various beauty retailers online - but I couldn’t trust them for MY skin tone. I just wanted a place I could go where someone that looks like me is honestly reviewing products… And suddenly ‘oh my goodness, I could be that person!’. That’s where the name ‘A Brown Girl Recommends’ comes from, for not only people with my skin tone, but anyone looking for honest, unfiltered content.
Having been in the beauty realm for a while, what advice would you give to those who are looking to start their own beauty page?
Don’t wait for the perfect moment, or having the right equipment, etc. - just start! The more you experiment, the more you learn along the way. You’d definitely have some fails, but ultimately, it just makes you grow as a creator.
Do you have a favorite Sachi Skin product?
I love the Complexion Clarifying Accelerator - it’s done wonders for my skin texture and also brightened it so much!
With Eid coming up, what beauty or skincare rituals do you swear by to feel your best as you prepare for this special occasion?
My skin is thirsty after fasting, so I use a lot hydrating overnight masks so that I wake up with dewy skin and can continue to maintain this for Eid. Then the big day - SKIN PREP. I love layering milky toners and especially a hydrating eye cream massaged on with cooling face globes, because we know there won’t be a lot of sleep the night before Eid.
What does Eid mean to you?
For me, it’s all about family - the feeling of waking up on Eid morning and wishing everyone Eid Mubarak with a warm embrace.
"Nothing beats that feeling, and you never know who will be here next Eid, so the hugs always last a little longer with each passing year."
Growing up, what skincare traditions or customs did you practice?
My mum is an aesthetician, so from a young age, I’ve always had a skincare routine. This is something I can absolutely thank my Mum for - without her, my love and passion for beauty would be nonexistent. I also have to thank my Nani for all the hair oiling. It’s something I grew up with, and although I disliked it when I was young, the routine of it has made my hair so healthy today.
What’s your signature beauty look for Eid?
A glowy base, smokey eye, and of course, a glossy lip.
As we move through 2025, what exciting projects or milestones do you have planned for the rest of the year?
Ooooo I’m quite a private person so I don’t like to speak on things before they happen, but I’ll give you a hint. I’m going to be hosting an event with a brand I’ve been using since I started creating content. This is such a huge career milestone and I still can’t believe its happening!
And some rapid fire questions:
What songs are currently on repeat in your playlist?
Kitchen - SZA
What are you currently watching on Netflix?
Hunger Games
What’s one beauty or skincare product you can’t leave the house without?
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm in Brown Sugar
In one word, what are you most looking forward to this Eid?
FAMILY!!
Finish the sentence: I feel beautiful when…
I’m being myself.
