Nora Cosmetics is making a bold comeback with a refreshed brand identity, a fully expanded product range, and a renewed mission to celebrate beauty in every shade. The relaunch — marked by the opening of its flagship store at Molapo Crossing Mall — introduces the 15 Faces of Botswana campaign, showcasing inclusivity through a diverse array of models.
The revitalized collection spans liquid crème and powder foundations, concealers, lipsticks, eyeshadows, brushes, and more — all designed to suit a variety of skin tones. Combining quality, vibrant colors, and affordability, the products are formulated to enhance natural features while nourishing the skin for a flawless, all-day finish. Shoppers at the flagship store can also benefit from personalized consultations with in-house beauty advisors.
Founder Norah Mc Aslin describes the relaunch as “a story of resilience, adaptability, and commitment to customer satisfaction.” She admits the timing — during Botswana’s colder season — was deliberate. “Even though it’s still cold and there aren’t many events, we launched now to build awareness heading into summer,” she says. “That way, customers will already know where to find quality products that suit their needs.”
The relaunch was originally planned for late last year but was delayed by supplier issues and the lingering effects of the pandemic. Mc Aslin recalls the toll COVID-19 took on the business: “For two and a half years we couldn’t sell make-up because people simply weren’t interested, and we ended up with a warehouse full of products close to expiry.”
Before the pandemic, Nora Cosmetics had invested heavily in production, supported by loans, anticipating steady growth. But prolonged lockdowns forced operations to a halt, leaving them with unsellable stock. Rather than accept defeat, Mc Aslin and her team used the downtime to consult closely with make-up artists and long-time collaborators, rethinking their product strategy.
“In the early days, we followed beauty trends — bold colors like green and black lipsticks — but those didn’t always connect with our customers,” she explains. Research revealed that their audience preferred practical, everyday products: shades that were wearable, flattering, and affordable, but still carried a luxurious feel.
The new range reflects that shift, replacing niche colors with versatile shades for daily wear. “We never really stopped operating,” says Mc Aslin. “When stock expired, we focused on make-up services to keep the brand visible.”
One lesson she holds onto is that success comes from making products that “make sense for the people you serve.” The updated line now features 15 liquid foundation shades to match every skin tone, alongside lipsticks, glosses, powders, and setting sprays — all designed for a natural glow and effortless beauty.
Opening their own store, Mc Aslin says, was a major milestone. It allows the team to offer make-up lessons, ensuring customers get the most out of their purchases. “Our vision has always been to educate and empower through beauty,” she says. “We’ve faced challenges, but we’re on our way to making a lasting impact. There’s more to come.”
