Möss is the Parisian dermo-hair brand focused on scalp health
Written by Marianne Olaleye, JAIKU
Cosmetic scientist, Fatima Ndiaye, has big ambitions to be the go-to brand for all scalp conditions with her holistic, science-backed approach.
Photographed by Krystal Nuevill
Fatima Ndiaye is not new to the luxury beauty scene. In fact, she has over 8 years’ experience under her belt. After spending nearly a decade as a cosmetic scientist, she was ready to tackle her own venture.
Launched in 2023, Möss Paris Ltd is a dermo-hair brand focused on balancing scalp and hair health. Following an unexpected diagnosis of alopecia, Ndiaye sought to create an effective solution for her sensitive scalp and in the process, she created a bespoke brand rooted in science, heritage, and inclusivity.
“My hair was falling out, and I couldn’t find a single product that worked,” she says. “I realised the market just wasn’t built for people like me.”
After diligent research she discovered that 90% of the market catered to straight or wavy hair. “Scalp concerns are often overlooked, especially for textured hair,” she continues. “I wanted to change that.”
So where did she begin? Having connections in the industry came in handy. She partnered with Dr. Paola Montano, a pharmacist and botanical care expert with over 10 years of experience and her own lab.
“I’d been formulating products for years, but this time, I wanted to do it differently, with a holistic, science-backed approach,” she adds.
So far the Möss line consists of one rebalancing scalp treatment, but this year Ndiaye applied for BGF and Glossier’s Black Beauty Grant to expand her horizons. “They acknowledge the systemic challenges Black female founders face, like limited access to funding and networks,” she says, “It’s not just about numbers, it’s about real conversations and real support.”
As one of 2025’s five winners, Ndiaye will use the funding to formulate two new products, so watch this space.
“This grant gives me the chance to prove what I can do on my own, and build credibility for when investors are ready,” she continues.
But that’s not all she has in the works. The budding entrepreneur also wants Möss to be the go-to brand for all scalp conditions. By building a network of hairdressers in her home country of France, she hopes Möss can be part of the educational journey so consumers can readily find stylists who can treat the scalp and textured hair.
With a strong focus and clear vision, Möss stands out from the crowd. One thing is clear: Ndiaye is dedicated to supporting her community and culture.
“Moss comes from the Serer language. It means ‘beautiful’. It’s more than a brand. It's a legacy.”
Thank you so much to Fatima for sharing such inspiring words with us.
Connect with Fatima or read more about the Black Beauty Grant programme here.
We’re eager to learn, collaborate, and share knowledge, so if you’re interested in working with us, say hello@blackgirlfest.com
BGF x
