Temi Otedola: A portrait of beauty as ritual, reflection, and reclamation

Long before the global rise of inclusive beauty campaigns and dialogue, African women understood that true beauty extended far beyond the superficial. It was, and remains, a profound reflection of strength forged through history, a vibrant tapestry of heritage, and an unwavering resilience. Temi Otedola steps onto this powerful legacy, embodying a bold, transformative vision of beauty that transcends mere aesthetics, resonating with a deep self-awareness, a proud embrace of her culture, and an undeniable authenticity.

 

For our debut Beauty Issue, in a landscape where beauty conversations often lack diverse representation, Temi Otedola stands out as the perfect figure to lead this vital dialogue. She embodies a bold, transformative vision of beauty, one that resonates not only with the individual’s inner depth but also with the profound power of heritage. Through her compelling work as an actress, her significant role as a L’Oréal ambassador, and her unapologetic embrace of African culture, she has become a truly global trailblazer, actively shifting the narrative of beauty for women of African descent on an international scale.

 

Temi’s journey is a powerful act of reclamation – not just of a more authentic and inclusive definition of beauty, but also of self-empowerment in a world that often imposes external expectations. She is not passively following fleeting trends; rather, she is actively setting a new standard, demonstrating to African women worldwide that their inner strength intrinsically defines their beauty, profound self-awareness, and rich cultural pride, far surpassing the limiting constraints of external expectations.

 

Within this insightful conversation, we delve into the compelling ways in which Temi Otedola has courageously redefined beauty on her own terms, carving out a space for authenticity in a world often demanding conformity. Furthermore, we explore how she continues to serve as a potent source of inspiration, not only through her genuine self-expression but also through her unwavering confidence and her steadfast commitment to honing her craft. In doing so, Temi’s journey also invites us to reevaluate our own perceptions of beauty and consider the external pressures that may have shaped them.

The inner landscape of beauty

Temi Otedola’s understanding of beauty has undergone a significant evolution, a quiet yet profound maturation mirroring her journey of self-discovery. “In my early twenties,” she reflects, “beauty felt predominantly visual – an aesthetic to be meticulously curated and presented for external validation.” In those formative years, it was largely an outward endeavour, shaped by prevailing aesthetics, the desire for attention, and the often-unspoken pressure to consistently embody a certain image. However, as her world expanded through extensive travel, deeper introspection, and cherished moments of solitude, her relationship with her own reflection transformed. “True beauty,” she now articulates, her words imbued with a deliberate weight of experience, “is fundamentally about how deeply grounded you are within yourself.”

 

Today, Temi exudes a quiet confidence, one that has not been manufactured through the pursuit of an unattainable perfection but rather cultivated through a profound self-awareness. The mirror, once perhaps a surface for critical inspection, has softened into a space for deeper reflection – both literally and figuratively. “Of course, I still notice the condition of my skin or the tell-tale signs of fatigue,” she shares with disarming candour, “but increasingly, the mirror has become a touchstone, a place to check in with my emotional landscape.” These internal check-ins, though subtle, carry significant weight: am I holding onto unspoken tension? Am I feeling depleted or at ease in my own being? She is learning the invaluable practice of meeting herself without the harsh lens of judgment, consciously replacing self-criticism with a gentle curiosity. Viewed through this lens, beauty transcends the act of merely correcting perceived flaws and evolves into a profound practice of recognising and honouring our internal state.

Her daily rituals – whether it’s the cleansing warmth of a nighttime shower, the soothing embrace of a bath, or the mindful application of her skincare routine – have become essential anchors in her often-turbulent days. “They help me gently decelerate, intentionally reconnect with myself, and symbolically wash away the residue of the day,” she explains. In a demanding schedule frequently governed by constant movement, demanding shoots, and the disorienting shift of time zones, these seemingly small routines offer a vital sense of consistency – a deliberate pause, a quiet return to her inner sanctuary. These moments don’t require extravagance to be profoundly meaningful; their significance lies in the conscious intention she brings to each one. “I find immense value in using these rituals as a gentle pathway back to the present moment,” she reflects.

 

This same intentionality permeates even her personal style – an effortless yet striking blend of timeless elegance and contemporary edge. “Each day,” she shares with a hint of playful creativity, “guided by my mood, the demands of a project, or the influence of my surroundings, I embrace a new ‘character,’ and the act of ‘playing dress-up’ is always a source of genuine joy.” While her fashion choices may evolve and adapt, they are never mere performances for an external audience. Instead, there is a deeply considered sense of self that underpins every ensemble. While she might draw inspiration from the echoes of the past, her approach is always forward-moving, constantly refining and editing, and embracing the beauty of change.

This inherent openness has proven indispensable in navigating the often-complex and layered expectations surrounding beauty within the public sphere. “There can be this subtle yet pervasive pressure to conform to a particular aesthetic,” she candidly admits. “But the fundamental truth is, such conformity is neither sustainable in the long run nor does it reflect genuine reality.” Consequently, she has consciously chosen an alternative path – one guided by her internal compass of feelings rather than the external dictates of appearance. Her consistent self-inquiry – “Why am I engaging in this? For whom am I doing it? Does it ultimately support the way I aspire to feel within my own body and throughout my day?” – has steered her evolution. Over time, her approach to beauty has distilled into something far simpler and profoundly more honest. It has shifted its focus from a place of perceived flaws needing correction to one of gentle and consistent self-care. “For me,” she concludes with conviction, “true beauty resonates most powerfully when I feel a sense of inner calm, grounded in my being, and authentically aligned with the way I intend to move through the world.”

 

Temi’s perspective offers a gentle yet firm challenge to the prevailing beauty status quo, an invitation for us to shift our focus inward. It compels us to pay closer attention – to our genuine needs, to the emotional weight we carry, and to the myriad ways in which we can extend greater kindness and compassion towards ourselves. “I now understand the profound power of defining beauty on my own terms,” she asserts. And in embracing this personal definition, she extends a different kind of aspiration to us all: one that values authenticity over flawlessness, presence over filters, and a wholly self-defined sense of beauty above all else.

From performance to presence: A reverent approach

For Temi, the very foundation of beauty lies in presence – in inhabiting the current moment. Amidst the whirlwind of constant travel, demanding work engagements, and relentless motion, her skincare and self-care rituals serve as vital anchors, offering moments of serene respite – soft landings at the close of demanding days. “Even when my schedule is at its most frenetic, these moments allow me to intentionally decelerate,” she explains, describing them not as mere obligations but as deliberate pauses. Within the quiet sanctuary of these routines, she finds the space for genuine self-care – an act performed not for outward appearance, but for profound inner restoration. The focus shifts from the pursuit of a polished facade to the deeper need for feeling replenished and whole.

 

Some of these cherished practices are deeply personal, interwoven not only with individual preference but also with the rich threads of memory and inherited wisdom. When asked about the beauty rituals or products she holds dearest, a radiant smile illuminates her face as she exclaims, “Black soap, always!” Alongside this staple are treasured beauty cues passed down through generations by her mother – the vital practice of moisturising while the skin is still damp, a consistent and thorough supplement regimen, and the luxurious comfort of silk sheets that gently protect both skin and hair during sleep. For Temi, these are not merely superficial beauty tips; they are profound acts of care seamlessly integrated into the fabric of her daily life, quietly reinforcing a cherished lineage of wellness and mindful attentiveness.

Even amidst the demanding pressures of high-stakes environments, it is not elaborate or time-consuming rituals but rather the smaller, more consciously chosen moments that help her maintain her equilibrium. “I’ve found that the more I prioritise quick yet mindful self-care practices – such as taking deep, grounding breaths or intentionally turning off my phone while on set – the less I find the need for a significant ‘reset’ later,” she reflects with insight. Her approach to mindfulness is deeply rooted in accessibility: finding moments for journaling between takes, indulging in short massages when time permits, and utilising the power of breathwork to gently slow a racing mind. These acts are not grand, performative gestures; instead, they are subtle yet powerful recalibrations – gentle reminders to return to her centre.

 

Temi draws a clear and crucial distinction between the mere performance of beauty and its far more profound resonance. “Superficial ‘looking good’,” she observes, “often boils down to makeup, clothing, and external adornment.” However, the experience of feeling beautiful – truly and deeply beautiful – transcends these external markers entirely. It is rooted in a sense of inner alignment. “It’s that harmonious state,” she elaborates, “where my outward presentation reflects my inner landscape: a feeling of calm, unwavering confidence, and genuine connection.” This intrinsic feeling, she emphasises, cannot be manufactured or feigned; it is a state that can only be cultivated and nurtured through mindful attention.

 

At its very core, Temi approaches beauty with a deep sense of reverence – a profound respect for her own being. She believes that a meaningful self-care routine serves as a powerful conduit, bringing one back into a natural rhythm with their body – not viewing it as a project to be managed or a canvas to be improved, but as a sacred vessel deserving of attentive listening. “So often,” she reflects, “we find ourselves caught in the relentless pursuit of ‘doing’ and constantly striving for the next achievement.” She emphasises, “Beauty rituals offer a vital opportunity to gently remind ourselves that our minds need to decelerate and reconnect in harmonious unity with our physical selves.” In this light, her routines transcend mere acts of vanity; they become daily practices of presence – a conscious act of remembering and honouring her authentic self amidst the clamour of the external world.

The unmistakable authority of being oneself

For Temi Otedola, navigating global stages as an African woman imbues beauty with a powerful dual purpose: it is not merely adornment, but a profound declaration – a conscious way to assert her identity and proudly proclaim her origins. “I intentionally choose to wear braids and showcase the creations of numerous Nigerian brands when I am representing Nigeria,” she shares, underscoring the deliberate nature of her choices. These are not casual decisions; they are deeply intentional acts of cultural pride. In a world that still grapples with centring diverse beauty narratives, Temi resolutely uses her prominent platform to spotlight the brilliance and excellence emanating from Africa – from its innovative fashion houses to its rich tapestry of traditional hairstyles – with a quiet yet unshakeable conviction. “Our culture, our beauty trends, and our brands are truly extraordinary,” she affirms. “And I am deeply committed to showcasing their magnificence whenever possible.”

 

Equally significant is her radical commitment to individuality. “For me, embracing my individuality is about the empowering act of choosing what resonates with my personal strength, irrespective of fleeting trends or societal expectations,” she asserts. For African women, in particular, this act of self-determination carries profound weight, often representing a powerful form of rebellion against historical pressures. History has frequently dictated a need to dilute their distinctive features, soften their natural textures, and lighten their rich skin tones – essentially to become more palatable versions of themselves for a dominant gaze. For Temi, the conscious choice to wear her natural hair, to embrace the beauty of her own skin tone, or to opt for understated elegance over ostentatious display becomes its own powerful act of resistance. “That in itself,” she states with conviction, “becomes a quiet yet potent act of rebellion – not driven by a need for external validation, but by an unwavering commitment to truth and authenticity.”

 

Within the image-driven worlds of fashion and film, where perception often dictates value, Temi has astutely learned to subvert the often-unspoken and restrictive rules. “There’s this subtle yet persistent pressure to always present as hyper-styled and impeccably polished to be granted professional respect,” she observes with keen awareness. However, her most profoundly defining moments have frequently emerged from her conscious choice to embrace the understated – to show up in her own inherent softness and at her own authentic rhythm. For Temi, minimalism is not a deficiency but rather a powerful visual language – a deliberate refusal to engage in performative excess. “Some of my most significant and defining moments,” she affirms, “have arisen from presenting myself authentically as I am and still commanding unequivocal respect.”

This unwavering commitment to self-definition serves as the consistent thread that weaves through all of her beauty choices. She does not adhere to trends merely for the sake of adherence. One day might find her embracing a naturally bare face, while the next might see her confidently sporting a bold red lip. The consistent starting point, however, is always her internal emotional landscape. “For me,” she articulates, “defining beauty for yourself is fundamentally about trusting and heeding your own intuition, rather than being swayed by the external noise of fleeting trends or societal expectations.” It is a deliberate inward gaze and a deep listening to her inner voice before any outward expression takes form.

 

Ultimately, Temi anchors her beauty ethos in the intertwined principles of authenticity and personal power. “When I present myself exactly as I am and feel a genuine sense of comfort and confidence in my own skin, that, to me, is the truest form of power,” she asserts with conviction. It is not a performance crafted for external validation, but rather a deeply personal stance. And this stance possesses a powerful ripple effect, extending far beyond herself. She understands that with every act of embracing her own beauty on her own terms, she is sending a potent message to other women – particularly young African women – demonstrating that they possess the same inherent right. “Your unique version of beauty is inherently valid,” she affirms with an unshakeable certainty that cannot be imitated, “even if it diverges from every other version you see. True beauty must come from within.”

From ambassador to actress: Embracing transformation

As both a distinguished L’Oréal ambassador, a role often associated with transformative beauty looks, and an accomplished actress celebrated for her versatility, Temi Otedola embodies transformation in diverse realms. She is consistently drawn to characters and stories that delve into the intricate complexities of identity and possess the capacity to explore profound emotional depths. “My aspiration for every role,” she states, “is for it to stretch me in a new and transformative direction.” Her approach to her craft is not about seeking the path of least resistance but rather embracing opportunities that will push her growth as both an artist and a human being.

 

For Temi, makeup transcends its conventional perception as a mere superficial tool; rather, it functions as a nuanced and expressive language – a vital means through which she can embody and effectively communicate the multifaceted nuances of a character. “Makeup is an incredibly potent tool in the intricate process of building a believable character,” she explains with insight. “It possesses the power to visually convey vulnerability, project strength, and even subtly hint at inner conflict.” She engages in close collaboration with the makeup team, ensuring that every deliberate detail – from the precise shade of lip colour to the subtle texture of the skin – serves the overarching narrative of the story.

 

Looking towards the horizon, Temi’s excitement for the future of her craft is palpable. “There are a multitude of film projects that I am incredibly eager to begin working on in the coming months,” she shares with evident enthusiasm. With a wealth of diverse stories yearning to be told and a myriad of roles she still deeply desires to explore, Temi’s passionate dedication to the art of storytelling shows no signs of abating. Her artistic journey is characterised by a constant state of evolution, seamlessly transitioning from one distinct character to the next, and her thoughtful and committed approach to each role powerfully reflects her ongoing dedication to deepening her artistic skills and forging a profound connection with the narratives she so vividly brings to life.

Finding home within: The essence of self-care

For Temi Otedola, the concept of beauty has consistently transcended the superficial confines of a mirror’s reflection. “To truly feel beautiful,” she articulates with conviction, “is to experience a profound sense of connection with my whole self – encompassing both my mental and emotional well-being.” It is not predicated on the illusion of flawless skin or the artifice of perfect lighting, but rather on achieving a deep inner alignment. It’s that serene and quiet sense of self-assurance that emanates from within. It’s those moments of profound inner peace when one’s thoughts are in harmony with their physical being, and their presence commands attention not through external adornments but through the inherent grace and confidence with which they carry themselves. “When I feel truly centred, deeply calm, and unequivocally confident in the essence of who I am,” she affirms, “that is when I experience the most authentic form of beauty.”

 

However, Temi, despite her constant presence within the often-glamorous public eye, recognises that the feeling of beauty does not always arrive accompanied by outward splendour. There are moments, familiar to all, when she may not feel conventionally “camera-ready.” During these times, she anchors herself in a far deeper understanding of her own worth. “I simply remind myself that external beauty is precisely that – external. It does not define the core of who I am,” she states with resolute clarity. Instead, she consciously directs her energy towards the intangible yet enduring qualities that truly define her – her inherent energy, her capacity for kindness, and her unique way of being in the world. These are the attributes, she understands, that possess a far greater and more lasting impact than any fleeting cosmetic or photographic lens could ever capture. “Ultimately,” she concludes, “what truly holds significance is the way I make others feel through my interactions and the authentic manner in which I choose to show up in the world.”

 

If Temi possessed the power to rewrite the prevailing narrative of beauty for the next generation of African women, she would deliver her message with a simple yet profoundly radical conviction: “You possess inherent worthiness and do not need to alter any aspect of yourself to be seen or to be loved.” This statement carries a gentle yet powerful defiance, directly addressing years of harmful messaging that has historically told Black girls to diminish their features, soften their natural textures, or lighten their beautiful skin tones to gain acceptance. Temi’s stance is unequivocally clear: “Your skin, in its rich hue, your hair in its diverse textures, your unique features – these are not flaws to be corrected, but inherent aspects of your beauty that are inherently enough.” She concludes with empowering certainty, “True beauty does not arise from conforming to a narrow and often exclusionary standard; rather, it blossoms from the courageous act of fully owning and celebrating who you authentically are.”

While embracing the boundless creativity of fashion and makeup, Temi remains steadfastly intentional in her commitment to her authentic self. “The act of experimenting,” she explains, “serves as a valuable process for discerning what truly resonates with my inner being and what feels inauthentic.” She approaches prevailing trends with genuine curiosity, not out of obligation or pressure. If a trend aligns harmoniously with her core essence, she embraces the opportunity for playful exploration. If it does not, she readily lets it pass. For Temi, the true joy lies in the inherent freedom of self-expression – in the empowering knowledge that she can evolve and adapt without ever losing touch with her fundamental identity.

 

Yet, beyond the ever-shifting landscape of trends and the superficiality of mere appearance, some rituals hold a far deeper and more personal significance for Temi. For her, the simple act of taking a long bath is imbued with a sense of sacredness. “Surrounded by the soft glow of candles and the soothing aromas of essential oils,” she describes, “it feels like a complete and restorative reset.” In the tranquil stillness of the water, she exhales the day’s burdens, engages in quiet reflection, and gently returns to her innermost self. It is within these moments that self-care transcends the transactional act of fixing perceived flaws and evolves into something profoundly more soulful – a practice of remembering and reconnecting with her essence. And perhaps, it is precisely here, in this gentle act of consciously coming home to who you truly are, that the most authentic and enduring form of beauty truly begins.