Boom for Mombasa beauty artists as they blend tradition and modern style

Mombasa’s beauty and cosmetics industry is rapidly expanding, transforming the coastal city into a vibrant hub for fragrances, make-up, and henna art.

Known for their sophisticated scents and impeccable grooming, Mombasa residents, both men and women, have created a vibrant market for entrepreneurs in the sector.

Walking through the city, one is met with a blend of fragrances drifting from the numerous perfume shops that dot the streets.

According to Salim Abdallah of Qamiis Thobe Shop, their journey began with a modest investment of roughly Sh600,000.

"We saw an opportunity at the coast because many people here take pride in looking and smelling good. The market is large, and the business has done well," Salim said.

Qamiis Shop, a family-run business, has been in existence for over six years. A second branch was recently opened.

The shop primarily targets customers aged 25 to 40 years, with sales peaking during the Ramadan season.

Salim noted that their perfumes, mainly imported from Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, come in both sprays and oil-based varieties.

"Sprays are more popular, priced between Sh2,500 to Sh7,500, while oil-based perfumes range from Sh200 to Sh2,000," he explained.

Despite their high prices, Qamiis Shop manages to sell 60 per cent of its stock in a month.

Budget for perfumes

Salim Salim, a loyal customer, admits to setting aside Sh20,000 every three months to buy perfumes.

“Maintaining a fragrance lifestyle is not cheap, especially with original, long-lasting perfumes costing between Sh1,500 and Sh8,000,” he said.

However, the perfume business is not without its challenges.

“Sometimes we have expensive perfumes when customers want cheaper ones, and vice versa,” noted Salim of the Qamiis Shop.

Nevertheless, the shop’s popularity has been growing, particularly among influential clientele.

Mombasa's beauty and cosmetic industry is now more competitive than ever. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

A few streets away, Top Time Shop, managed by Feizal Mohammed, has been a fixture in Mombasa for over 20 years. The store specialises in perfumes imported from France and local varieties.

"Our French imports are oil-based with an English scent and no alcohol, which helps the scent last longer," Feizal said.

The shop offers a range of options which cost between Sh100 and Sh2,000 and cater to people with varying budgets.

Fitam Cosmetic Shop, located 50 meters from Top Time, has also had success selling imported perfumes from Dubai, including popular brands like Blue Lady, Brown Orchid, and Secret.

"Our customers prefer perfumes with a sweet, fruity, or floral scent," said Mohammed Zahran, the owner.

He noted that air fresheners, which cost between Sh250 and Sh300, are in higher demand than body perfumes.

The beauty industry in Mombasa is not limited to perfumes.

Make-up services are also in high demand, with residents investing in their appearance for daily life and special occasions.

Firdaus Daudi, a make-up artist who moved from Nairobi, has been in business for two years.

“I charge according to customer preference from simple eyebrow shaping at Sh200 to full facial make-up, whose cost varies based on the event,” Firdaus explained.

Henna art training

Henna art, a traditional practice in Mombasa, has also become a thriving business. Jamila Ali, who began her venture in 1984, now runs a school for make-up and henna art.

"Back then, it wasn't seen as a business but today, we make a living from it," Jamila said.

Her students undergo three-month courses and receive certificates that open doors to professional opportunities.

Naima Ibrahim, another henna artist, focuses on bridal designs, which can cost between Sh2,500 and Sh4,000 depending on the complexity.

“We offer the latest patterns to stay competitive, as the demand for contemporary designs continues to rise,” Naima explained.

With new businesses constantly emerging, Mombasa's beauty and cosmetic scene is more competitive than ever. Yet, for those who have found their niche, the industry promises growth and success in a city that celebrates both tradition and modern style.