From intricate tribal marks to vibrant indigo dyes and symbolic beads, Yoruba people cherish timeless beauty rituals passed down through generations.
Beauty—or ẹwa—holds a profound meaning in Yoruba culture. For centuries, the Yorubas have beautified themselves with different hairstyles, exquisite beads, luscious garments, and tribal marks, creating an aesthetic signature to the culture. Each element has played a role in defining traditional Yoruba beauty practices. Take a look at some of the beauty secrets and beauty practices of the Yoruba people.
Tribal marks and tattoos
An influencer with tribal marks. Photo – Instagram / @skin_carebyshade
Tribal marks—or ila—and tattoos are part and parcel of the Yoruba concept of identity and beauty. Their origins can be traced back to ancient times, holding significant meaning in Yoruba culture. Tribal marks were a form of identification, distinguishing tribes, families, and social statuses. Different cuts and patterns are for varying tribes for easy identification and a sense of belonging. Mostly done during infancy, tribal marks were created using sharp knives and razor blades, Over time, they became a means of beautification, with some designs being aesthetically pleasing.
Indigo dye
Adire made with the use of Indigo dye. Photo – Design Museum
Derived from the leaves of indigo plants—or elu—indigo dye is cherished by the Yoruba people for its deep and culturally significant colour, as well as its health, clothing and beauty benefits. Aside from its medicinal uses for treating viruses and stomach upset, the dye obtained from the indigo plants was used for tie-dye (adiré). Adiré fabric is made by using indigo dye to create patterns on fabric. Yoruba women use it to create different patterns for clothing pieces like head wraps, wrappers, and blouses. Indigo powder also contains properties beneficial for self-care. It was used as hair dye, for dandruff prevention, treating skin inflammation and skin infections, and soothing sunburn.
Hairstyles
Suku traditional Yoruba hairstyle. Photo – JD ‘Okhai Ojeikere
Kiko, Yoruba traditional hairstyle. Photo – JD ‘Okhai Ojeikere
Suku is among the many popular hairstyles loved by Yoruba women, even among royalty. Some other popular hairstyles signature to the Yorubas are adimole, irun didi, irun kiko, irun biba, and kojusoko, which translates to “face your husband” in English. These hairstyles were adorned with beads, cowries, and sea shells for further beautification and to stand out. In contrast, men were expected to keep a cleanly shaved head or very short hair. While maintaining a neat, low-cut or bald head was seen as a sign of discipline, having unkempt, bushy hair was perceived as a sign of low social standing, neglect and the inability to care for oneself.
Beads
Woman wearing coral beads with Yoruba traditional attire. Photo – Instagram / @abydouz_gele
Ancient Yoruba King. Photo – Superanoov
Also known as ileke in Yoruba, beads have cultural significance in Yoruba society. They symbolise power, wealth, and spiritual protection. There are different kinds of beads, each with its own meaning. For example, coral beads—often red-orange in colour—are associated with royalty in Yoruba culture. They are worn by kings, queens, and high-ranking nobles, signifying power and influence. Other examples include glass beads, and cowrie shells, which are woven into hairstyles, worn as jewellery, and used as money.
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Tiro (Eyeliner)
Tiro is a traditional eyeliner used among Yoruba women. Made from charcoal or soot mixed with palm oil or shea butter, it is used to accentuate the eyes. The colours vary from black to blue and brown. It is applied using a brush dipped in the product and applied along the lash line on the upper and lower eyelids. Tiro enhances the wearer’s eyes, making them appear larger.
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