Black-Owned Skincare Brands Driving Innovation and Sustainability – Megan Young Gamble

What You’ll Learn In This Blog

• List of Black-owned skincare brands revolutionizing the beauty industry.
• Why inclusivity and sustainability are essential in skincare today.
• The best products for melanin-rich skin and their unique benefits.

Introduction

Skincare isn’t just a routine—it’s a celebration of individuality, health, and confidence. In 2025, Black-owned skincare brands are taking center stage by addressing the specific needs of melanin-rich skin while championing sustainability and inclusivity. From products that enhance hydration to solutions for common concerns like hyperpigmentation, these brands are setting new standards for skincare. Let’s explore the top names redefining what it means to care for your skin.

*NOTE: the brands featured are not an exhaustive list; however some that have exponential growth over the past couple of years.

1. Jacq’s Skincare

Founded by Barbara Jacques, is a beacon for those seeking vegan and organic skincare solutions specifically formulated for people of color. The line boasts products enriched with bio-actives, probiotics, and antioxidants, all designed to nourish, repair, and protect melanin-rich skin. Jacq’s is committed to environmental responsibility, utilizing sustainably sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. You can find their products on their official website.

2. Undefined Beauty

Created by Dorian Morris, Undefined Beauty breaks the mold with its clean, non-toxic skincare products that address common issues like hyperpigmentation and sun protection for people of color. The brand emphasizes cruelty-free formulations, sustainable sourcing, and recyclable packaging, reflecting its holistic approach to beauty. Their products are available on their official website.

3. S’able Labs

Brought to life by Idris and Sabrina Elba, S’able Labs is a line of genderless, conscious skincare products that celebrates African beauty traditions with products that incorporate natural African ingredients like baobab and shea butter. The brand’s Baobab Moisturizer is particularly notable, suitable for various skin types and beloved for its nourishing properties. Sable Labs supports local communities by sourcing ingredients responsibly and is available on their official website.

4. Nature’s Tallow Touch

Nature’s Tallow Touch specializes in premium tallow-based skincare products made from organic, grass-fed beef tallow combined with natural oils and extracts. Their product line, designed to cater to a variety of skincare needs, includes items like recovery balms, facial creams, and hair repair masks. The brand prides itself on using clean, chemical-free ingredients to provide nourishing, high-quality skincare solutions. Their products are available on their official website.

5. Clay and Olive Skincare

Founded by Keisha Young, Clay and Olive Skin Care focuses on the health, wellness, and fitness sectors. They offer a range of skincare products that are both effective and environmentally responsible. Their formulations are natural, harnessing the power of plant-based ingredients, and are made without harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, or silicones. The products are designed to be inclusive, catering to a variety of skin types and concerns, ensuring that everyone can find something that works for their skin. Their products are available on their official website.

6. Juru Skin

Juru Skin is the first multicultural hydration home designed to uniquely address the issues of ashy and dehydrated skin, especially within the Black community. Founded by Chinazo Onyema during her senior year at Brown University, the brand harnesses the potent hydration properties of Cupuaçu butter, which retains 440% more water compared to traditional shea butter. Proudly embracing its West-African roots, Juru Skin products are 100% sustainable, non-comedogenic, vegan, and cruelty-free, aimed at rehydrating, rejuvenating, and enhancing the radiance of melanin-rich skin and beyond. Available directly from their website, the brand combines natural ingredients with scientific innovation to offer solutions that nourish and celebrate skin diversity.

7. Rosen Skincare

Founded by Jamika Martin while she was a student at UCLA, Rosen Skincare specializes in products aimed at acne-prone skin. The brand is known for its effective, straightforward skincare solutions, including body lotions, cleansers, and face masks, all available for under $25. Rosen’s formulations target common skin concerns like acne and dark spots, using natural ingredients such as fruit powders from strawberries, raspberries, and lemons. Their star product, the Rosen Super Smoothie Cleanser, exemplifies their commitment to quality. Rosen’s products are widely accessible through their official website and major retailers like Ulta Beauty and Amazon, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking reliable skincare solutions.

8. 54 Thrones

Founded by Christina Funke Tegbe, 54 Thrones honors African beauty rituals using ingredients sourced directly from the continent, such as Ghanaian shea butter and Kenyan hibiscus. Their Ugandan Vanilla and Ethiopian Honey Beauty Butter is famed for its hydrating properties and delightful scent. By supporting local African producers and ensuring fair trade practices, 54 Thrones not only provides exceptional skincare but also contributes to sustainable development. Their products are available on their official website.

9. Topicals 

Co-founded by Olamide Olowe and Claudia Teng, Topicals transforms skincare into a wellness movement, focusing on destigmatizing skin conditions. Their products, including the popular High Roller ingrown hair tonic, incorporate natural, medicated botanicals that are gentle on the skin and the environment. Topicals also supports mental health causes, dedicating a portion of every sale to mental health organizations. You can find Topicals’ innovative products at Sephora, their official website, and other reputable skincare retailers.

Conclusion

Black-owned skincare brands are reshaping the beauty industry with products that celebrate diversity, champion inclusivity, and inspire innovation. By prioritizing sustainability through clean, natural ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, these trailblazing brands are meeting the unique needs of melanin-rich skin. Their offerings empower individuals to feel confident, radiant, and seen. The future of skincare is brighter than ever—defined by inclusivity, creativity, and environmental responsibility.

Curious about the transformative work of Black-owned haircare brands as well? Read on it here

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