Uzari is an African-inspired skincare brand nurtured by the deep-rooted traditions of Nigeria and Ghana designed for the modern woman who prioritizes clean ingredients. I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Founder Yasmin Zachary in this exclusive interview.
Thank you for joining us. You have quite an interesting background. Please tell us about yourself and how you grew up.
I grew up between Nigeria and Ghana, surrounded by strong women. My mother was the most consistent influence along with natural remedies and beauty rituals deeply rooted in community and tradition. Later, my career took me across six continents and more than 45 countries and counting. Those experiences shaped my worldview, but they also reinforced something important, that true confidence comes from staying connected to your roots and values.
What was the motivation to start your own skincare line?
Like many women, I experienced my own skin challenges and spent years trying countless products. I became increasingly puzzled by how modern skincare relies so heavily on harsh ingredients and marketing hype, while overlooking simple, time-tested remedies, especially those rooted in African traditions. I wanted to create clean, effective skincare that truly works, honors ancestral wisdom, and fits seamlessly into modern life. Uzari was born from that desire: bringing traditional African recipes into science-backed skincare long before “clean beauty” became a trend. Because when you’re confident in your skin and in yourself, you’re better equipped to show up fully in the world.
What sets Uzari apart from others and who is your target customer?
Uzari is skincare for the global woman. Someone balancing ambition, family, and self while staying rooted in her values. While so much of the beauty industry focuses on the face, we believe the rest of the body deserves just as much attention. Uzari makes daily body care easy, accessible, and effective. What truly sets us apart is our fusion of heritage and innovation. We source clean, sustainable ingredients inspired by traditional African practices then refine them with modern science for proven results. Our products go beyond skincare. They are grounding rituals designed to reconnect you with yourself, supported by generations of five-star results that speak to their performance.
What is the significance of the brand’s name?
Uzari is inspired by “Uzuri,” which means “beauty” in Swahili. It represents confidence, creativity, independence, and originality. A woman who embraces change, travel, and growth. The name reflects our belief that true beauty and confidence come from staying connected to your foundations even as you evolve.
Please tell us about your partner charity, BIIKA, and how it helps women in Ghana?
BIIKA is a nonprofit I lead that sponsors tertiary education for bright, underprivileged girls in Ghana where we source our ingredients. Education truly changes generations. Through Uzari, we donate a percentage of every purchase to support these young women, helping them build independent, meaningful futures and uplift their communities.
Working in the skincare industry for so many years do you have a couple top tips you could share with us?
First consistency matters more than complexity. Simple routines done regularly deliver the best results. Second, exfoliation is often overlooked; when done mindfully, it improves circulation, supports lymphatic drainage, and enhances product absorption. Finally, skincare should feel intentional. Treat it as a moment of self-connection, not just another task or trend.
Anything else we should know?
As I often say, self-care is overrated. I prefer self-connection. Society asks so much of women today, and it’s more important than ever to stay rooted in who you are, in your own skin, and in your own sense of self. At Uzari, our mission is to create high-performing skincare that keeps women grounded while making a meaningful impact in the world. We believe a healthy skin barrier is the foundation of beautiful skin and when your skin feels supported, your confidence naturally follows.
To experience the incredible benefits of Uzari, visit https://uzariskincare.com/
Follow on TikTok @uzariskincare
