Celebrating Black-Owned Skin-Care Brands Propelling Inclusivity

The skin-care industry, long criticized for its lack of inclusivity, is taking steps toward change. Historically, it has not adequately represented the needs of those with melanated skin, evident in the scant diversity in clinical testing and the alarming statistic that only 5% of dermatology residents are Black. At Allure, we believe it’s crucial to celebrate Black-owned and founded skin-care brands for their tireless efforts in pushing the boundaries of inclusivity while delivering innovative and effective products tailored for all skin types.

These pioneering brands are making waves across all fronts of the skin-care landscape. From luxurious formulations by esthetician Shani Darden, to targeted sun protection by Black Girl Sunscreen, and illuminating oils by Oui the People and 54 Thrones, there is a wealth of choice available to consumers looking for products that cater to diverse skin tones and concerns. In this article, we shine a spotlight on some of our favorite Black-founded brands that exemplify this spirit of inclusivity and excellence.

Epara

Founded by Ozohu Adoh, Epara derives its name from the Nigerian dialect of Ebira, meaning "to cocoon oneself." This luxury skincare line is designed explicitly for women of color, addressing specific concerns such as hyperpigmentation and dryness. Epara is committed to creating products that are high-quality and effective in meeting the unique skincare needs of its audience.

Star Product: Epara Skincare Moisturizing Face Cream

This luxe cream boasts a nourishing blend of marula, moringa, and argan oils to provide all-day hydration. Its rich, creamy texture makes it ideal for application right after cleansing while the skin is still damp, allowing maximum absorption.

Shani Darden

Celebrity esthetician Shani Darden has garnered acclaim for her namesake line, which showcases award-winning formulations that cater to various skin types, specifically those transitioning between different skin care needs. Launched in 2020, her products have quickly achieved cult status.

Star Product: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

This standout product received the prestigious Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2023 for its gentle yet potent exfoliating formula. Perfect for pre-event preparation, this peel leaves skin glowing and minimizes the appearance of pores, making it a must-have for radiant skin.

Topicals

Founded by Olamide Olowe and Claudia Teng, Topicals burst onto the scene with a mission to create effective skin-care solutions while celebrating the vibrancy of diverse skin types. Its rise to fame on social media highlights the brand’s relatable approach to skin conditions often overlooked in mainstream skin care.

Star Product: Topicals High Roller Ingrown Hair Tonic

This award-winning tonic tackles post-shave bumps using exfoliating salicylic and glycolic acids, combined with niacinamide for tone evening.

Hyper Skin

In 2020, Desiree Verdejo created Hyper Skin, a brand focusing on hyperpigmentation. Each product is formulated to illuminate dark spots and promote an even skin tone, catering especially to melanin-rich complexions.

Star Product: Hyper Even Fade and Glow AHA Mask

This award-winning mask is celebrated for its ability to brighten and even out skin tone. With glycolic and mandelic acids, it gently exfoliates, revealing a radiant complexion after just one use.

KNC Beauty

Founded by Kristin Noel Crawley, KNC Beauty started as a tribute to lip masks and has since expanded to offer a full range of lip, face, and eye treatments. The brand marries efficacy with aesthetic appeal, making skin care accessible and enjoyable.

Star Product: KNC Beauty Supa Balm Mint

This rich lip salve combines shea butter, moringa, and kukui oils to lock in moisture, creating irresistibly soft lips.

54 Thrones

Anchored in cultural heritage, 54 Thrones, founded by Christina Funke Tegbe, draws inspiration from African beauty rituals and ingredients. The brand emphasizes the power of nature in its body and skin-care products, ensuring that every item is steeped in tradition and authenticity.

Star Product: 54 Thrones African Beauty Butter

This luxurious butter, infused with Ugandan vanilla and Ethiopian honey, serves as both a moisturizer and a fragrant delight, making it perfect for daily use.

4.5.6 Skin

With a focus on clinically-driven formulations tailored for darker skin tones, Noelly Michoux founded 4.5.6 Skin to revolutionize how skin care is approached. By employing a phototype categorization system, the brand ensures that every customer can find personalized and effective solutions.

Star Product: 4.5.6 Skin Come Clean Cleansing Oil

Ideal for double-cleansing, this gentle oil efficiently removes dirt and makeup while hydrating your skin with squalene.

Rosen

For budget-conscious consumers, Jamika Martin’s Rosen offers high-quality products at prices that won’t break the bank. With its focus on acne and dark spot reduction, the brand has become a reliable choice for effective skin-care needs without compromising on quality.

Star Product: Rosen Super Smoothie Cleanser

Packed with antioxidant-rich fruit powders, this cleanser not only removes impurities thoroughly but also polishes the skin’s surface, promoting clarity and a more radiant complexion.

Rose Ingleton MD

In 2019, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rose Ingleton combined her medical expertise with Jamaican superfoods to craft effective skin-care products tailored to diverse needs. Her formulations merge the richness of natural ingredients with scientific rigor.

Star Product: Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic

With a fusion of AHAs and soothing agents like glycerin, this tonic offers gentle exfoliation while maintaining hydration, making it an essential part of your skincare routine.

Eadem

Co-founded by Marie Kouadio and Alice Lin, Eadem champions the beauty of melanin-rich skin by creating products that cater specifically to the unique needs of women of color. Their commitment to accurate representation within their brand ethos ensures that every voice is included.

Star Product: Eadem Milk Cleanser

This nurturing cleanser gently removes impurities while enhancing the skin’s natural moisture barrier, creating a fresh and balanced complexion.

Conclusion

The movement toward inclusivity in skin care is not just a trend; it represents a significant and vital shift in the beauty industry. By highlighting these Black-owned and -founded brands, we honor the contributions of entrepreneurs who are reshaping the skincare landscape to be more representative and welcoming for all. Whether you’re seeking luxury, effectiveness, or affordability, these brands offer rich, tailored options designed to illuminate the beauty of every skin tone. The journey toward comprehensive representation in skin care is just beginning, and we look forward to supporting it every step of the way.