Nigerian Beauty Entrepreneur, Dabota Lawson: Her Inspiration, Career, and Industry Trends

In an exclusive interview, Dabota Lawson, the founder of Dabota Cosmetics, shares her journey into the beauty industry, from her childhood fascination with beauty to becoming a successful entrepreneur. With her brand, she aims to provide high-quality, non-toxic products that cater to diverse skin tones and needs.

Lawson’s inspiration for venturing into the beauty industry stems from her childhood memories, personal struggles with acne, and ambition. Her mother, a talented fashion designer, instilled in her the importance of skincare and cosmetic artistry. This early exposure, combined with her experience in modeling and winning the title of Miss Nigeria UK in 2010, fueled her passion for beauty and empowerment.

As a beauty entrepreneur, Lawson has faced challenges, including self-doubt and setbacks. However, she persevered, finding motivation in the demand for high-quality, non-toxic makeup. She credits programs like Pallet to Profit for helping her refine her business and elevate her brand globally.

Lawson believes that the beauty industry in Nigeria is distinctively vibrant and deeply rooted in cultural diversity. She emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive products that cater to diverse skin tones and needs. At Dabota Cosmetics, she prioritizes engagement with customers, seeking feedback and conducting research to ensure that her products resonate with everyone.

When asked about upcoming innovations, Lawson hints at new lines incorporating natural ingredients and sustainable practices. She stays informed about industry trends through research, attending events, and engaging with her community on social media.

Lawson draws inspiration from strong female leaders and entrepreneurs, particularly her mentor, Madam Eryca Freemantle. She believes that the evolving beauty standards and push for inclusivity are refreshing and necessary, reflecting a recognition that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all.

As for the future of the beauty industry in Nigeria and globally, Lawson sees potential for local brands to gain recognition and consumers to become more conscious about what they use on their skin. She predicts that sustainability and authenticity will continue to shape the industry.

In addition to her entrepreneurial pursuits, Lawson has been announced as one of the new cast members for the third season of The Real Housewives of Lagos. She aims to showcase the beauty and dynamism of Lagos, sharing her journey as a beauty entrepreneur and offering viewers a glimpse into her personal life.

Lawson has also authored the book “From Likes to Launch,” which addresses the unique challenges Nigerian and African entrepreneurs face. She hopes to inspire and support aspiring entrepreneurs with practical guidance and insights from her own journey.

Throughout her journey, Lawson has learned the importance of resilience and authenticity. She believes that staying true to one’s vision and values will guide entrepreneurs through the ups and downs of the industry. With Dabota Cosmetics, she aims to continue innovating and pushing boundaries, providing high-quality products that celebrate individual beauty and promote self-acceptance.