About

Cute is Important: Our Founders

In a world inundated with materialism, fake news, and filters, some people may struggle with finding their sense of worth. Enter Nicole and Nia.

Nicole Toni, a clinical aesthetician and certified make-up artist has launched a new beauty line for people of color, Nia O. Uzuri, named after, and co-created, with her 8-year-old daughter.

“Cute is important,” is how young Nia sums up her choice to be a part of her mom’s business and brand. Nicole elaborates that “‘Cute is important’ is based on the premise that being your uniquely best self begins with looking and feeling better.” The dynamic duo believes that whether you're a stay-at-home parent or a corporate CEO…feeling cute is always important for your self-confidence!

Beauty With a Purpose:Our Mission

We utilize the “Power of Touch” (physically and emotionally), to encourage people, especially women of color, to feel better about themselves. Our aim is to share our knowledge and skills to inspire others--one face and heart at a time! “I’ve been told by clients that my hands are blessed (even magical),” says Nicole. “Some say that they hear my voice when it's time to cleanse their skin at home or an occasional whisper, gently reminding them to make time for self-care,” adds Nicole. Simply put, our mission is to make people feel beautiful from the inside out!

No Shade: Our Backstory

As a former model, Nicole recalls, first-hand, her frustration of trying to find makeup for melanated tones, as well as products designed for sensitive skin. Inspired by her own past experiences, the Nia O. Uzuri beauty line offers products gentle enough for skin as delicate as her daughter’s and makeup with a show of shades that can better suit people of color. “I wanted to create products that not only compliment a variety of complexions but also cater to the complexity of a person’s sense of worth, for those who may struggle with it, and show them that they don't have to be an artist to achieve a healthy, polished, and natural appearance,” says Nicole.

Skin Deep: Our Credentials

In addition to her modeling career, Nicole’s beauty background spans nearly 28 years. She is licensed in esthetics in both Illinois and New York and is a certified aesthetician (working in conjunction with board-certified surgeons to provide pre-and post-opt care for plastic surgery, dermatology assisting with mole removal procedures, and IPL Therapy to help reduce the signs of aging). Nicole has also worked in the industry as a professional make-up artist.

This or That? Our Difference

So, what makes the Nia O. Uzuri brand stand out from other companies that may cater to a similar clientele? “The name Nia O. Uzuri means ‘Beauty with a Purpose’,” explains Nicole. “My approach as an aesthetician is from a health and wellness standpoint and our beauty brand mirrors this with an array of products—from holistic to clinical to advanced,” she adds. The line, which offers clean ingredients as well as anti-cruelty products, includes luxurious lip glossers, natural-look foundations, organic body scrubs, beard oil for men, and a Bb cream with botanicals and antioxidants, to name a few.

See for Yourself: Our Spa Studio

Nia O. Uzuri line is currently available for purchase at Unique Expressions Spa Studio, located at 608 E 61st Street. While there, be sure to check out the myriad of spa studio services including Dermaplane facials, LED Light Therapy for inflammation, lymphatic massages, waxing or micro-blading for brows, and makeup application/lessons.