Olamide Olowe, a Nigerian-American entrepreneur, is the visionary behind Topicals, a skincare brand that’s transforming how we perceive and treat chronic skin conditions. Launched in August 2020, Topicals has rapidly gained recognition for its inclusive approach to skincare and its commitment to mental health advocacy.(Beauty Matter)
A Personal Journey Inspiring a Movement
Growing up in Los Angeles, Olowe faced chronic skin conditions like hyperpigmentation and pseudofolliculitis. These personal experiences highlighted the lack of effective, inclusive skincare solutions for people of color. While studying at UCLA, Olowe’s internship with SheaMoisture co-founder Richelieu Dennis provided her with valuable insights into the beauty industry, fueling her passion to create a brand that addressed these gaps. (Allure, creatorsblueprint.co)
Founding Topicals: A New Era in Skincare
In collaboration with co-founder Claudia Teng, Olowe established Topicals with a mission to destigmatize chronic skin conditions and promote skin neutrality—the idea that all skin is good skin. Their debut products, “Faded” and “Like Butter,” were formulated to treat hyperpigmentation and eczema, respectively, using a blend of medicated botanicals and synthetic actives suitable for all skin tones. (Glamour, Allure)
Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Milestones
Securing funding was initially challenging, but Olowe’s perseverance paid off. By 2022, she became the youngest Black woman to raise over $10 million in venture funding, with investors including Jay-Z’s Marcy Venture Partners, Kelly Rowland, and Gabrielle Union. Topicals’ innovative marketing strategies, such as their “Burn Book” campaign inspired by Mean Girls, and influencer trips to Ghana, have further solidified their presence in the beauty industry. (AfroTech, Allure)
A Commitment to Mental Health
Understanding the psychological impact of skin conditions, Topicals donates a portion of its profits to mental health organizations like Therapy for Black Girls and the JED Foundation. This initiative underscores the brand’s holistic approach to wellness, addressing both physical and mental health. (Topicals)
Looking Ahead
Under Olowe’s leadership, Topicals continues to challenge traditional beauty standards and advocate for inclusivity. With its science-backed products and community-driven ethos, the brand is not only redefining skincare but also inspiring a broader conversation about self-acceptance and mental well-being.(Allure)
For more on Olamide Olowe’s journey and Topicals’ mission, you can listen to her interview on the Glossy Beauty Podcast: Olamide Olowe on teaching Topicals customers about skin neutrality.
