May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the cultural contributions of Asian Pacific Americans to the United States. One of the ways I’m choosing to honor this heritage is by supporting Asian and Pacific Islander owned businesses.
As someone who loves shopping, I have curated a list of Asian American and Pacific Islander female-owned brands that you can support this month. My top personal favorites are listed at the beginning. As a bonus, since Mother’s Day is just around the corner, these brands also make great gifts for mothers.
1. OJOOK
OJOOK is a premium oral care brand established by Joy Yoon, a Korean-American entrepreneur. OJOOK’s products are rooted in traditional Eastern wellness philosophy. I have been using OJOOK toothpaste for a few years now, and I absolutely love it. The toothpaste contains potent natural ingredients such as Nano Hydroxyapatite and bamboo salt, which not only clean but also strengthen the enamel. The formulation of OJOOK toothpaste helps to remineralize enamel, brighten teeth, and prevent sensitivity.
2. WEI Beauty
Founded by Wei Brian, a Chinese-American entrepreneur, WEI beauty combines the power of traditional Chinese medicine with modern skincare science. For me, their Brown Sugar Ready Glow Exfoliating Mask is the definition of self care. I use it bi-weekly for a lavish and self-indulgent self-care moment that revitalizes my skin, giving it a radiant glow. OJOOK’s skincare line draws inspiration from Chinese herbal remedies and features masks, serums, and moisturizers formulated with natural ingredients to cater to diverse skin concerns.
3. M.Gemi
Founded by Maria Gangemi, an Italian-American entrepreneur, M.Gemi is a luxury shoe brand that offers Italian-crafted footwear at accessible prices, known for their timeless and comfortable designs. My favorite pair of boots are M. Gemi, and they’ve lasted me through four winters!
4. Drunk Elephant
Founded by Tiffany Masterson, a Thai-American entrepreneur, Drunk Elephant is a clean skincare brand that offers non-toxic and effective products for all skin types. Drunk Elephant found its way into my skincare routine a few years ago, and now I can’t imagine life without it. Their Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil is a cult-favorite, known for its versatile uses and moisturizing properties. I apply it to my skin again after I am done cleansing for a moisturizing glow.
5. Milk + Honey
Founded by Alissa Bayer, a Korean-American entrepreneur, Milk + Honey is a wellness brand that offers natural skincare and body care products, as well as spa services, known for their high-quality ingredients and luxurious experience.
6. Tatcha
Tatcha, a luxury skincare brand founded by Taiwanese-American entrepreneur Vicky Tsai, offers Japanese-inspired products that balance timeless Japanese botanicals with clinically proven ingredients to work with the skin. The Tatcha Institute in Tokyo, led by innovative scientists, formulates each product. The Hadasei-3™ complex, a blend of superfoods, amino acids, and AHAs derived from fermented rice, green tea, and algae, is present in every Tatcha formula.
Tatcha is committed to phasing out the use of “normal” as a skin type, as it implies that natural skin is abnormal. They are also eliminating the term “anti-aging” as they believe aging is a gift.
7. Velour
Velour was founded by Mabel Lee, a Chinese-Canadian entrepreneur. It is a luxury eyelash brand that offers cruelty-free and handcrafted lashes made with premium materials, known for their comfort, durability, and realistic appearance. Their magnetic lashes are one of their top sellers.
8. Wander Beauty
Co-founded by Divya Gugnani, an Indian-American entrepreneur, Wander Beauty is a beauty brand that offers travel-inspired skincare and makeup products for women on-the-go, known for their convenience, versatility, and effectiveness. As a mom, I also love that this brand is founded by two moms!
9. KonMari
KonMari was founded by Marie Kondo, a Japanese organizing consultant and author. This brand is a home organization brand that offers tools, accessories, and inspiration for a clutter-free and joyful home. Kondo’s philosophy of tidying up has inspired millions worldwide, and her brand offers practical and stylish solutions for everyday organization.
10. Vera Wang
This globally recognized brand was founded by Vera Wang, a Chinese-American fashion designer. Vera Wang is a bridal and fashion brand known for its elegant and romantic designs, particularly in the bridal and eveningwear categories.
By supporting these Asian Pacific American women-owned brands, you can discover unique and high-quality products while empowering and uplifting the achievements of talented entrepreneurs. Celebrating diversity and inclusivity in everyday choices helps create a more supportive environment for all entrepreneurs. By shopping these brands you can support Asian American, Pacific Islander and female owned businesses this month and beyond. You’re already shopping, so why not pick brands with a little extra intention this month?
Do you have any favorite Asian American or Pacific Islander owned brands? Share them in the comments! If you are shopping for Mother’s Day, try checking out Mother’s Day self-care gift ideas next!
