For the longest time, the beauty aisle was more guesswork than glow-up for Black women. We’ve navigated countless products that either did the bare minimum or left us with more problems than we started with. Hyperpigmentation that won’t quit? Been there. Sunscreens that turn us into Casper’s cousin? Yup. But finally, the tide is turning.
Today, there’s a new generation of skincare that gets us. These are products formulated with melanin-rich skin in mind—science-backed, results-driven, and free of all the ashy nonsense. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a certified skincare buff looking to level up your top shelf, these five melanin-tested, glow-approved picks deserve a standing ovation—and a permanent spot in your routine.
1. Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar
The multitasker your bathroom shelf has been waiting for.
Think of this as your skincare starter pack in one compact bar. It cleanses, gently exfoliates, and brightens uneven tone with a powerful blend of kojic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide. If you’re battling dark spots, breakouts, or dullness, this bar is like hitting reset on your skin—with zero dryness or drama.
Best for: Hyperpigmentation, blemish-prone skin, uneven tone.
2. Topicals Faded Serum
Yes, it really is worth the hype.
This internet-famous serum isn’t just a moment—it’s a movement. With tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and licorice root at its core, it fades stubborn scars and sun spots without trying to bleach your melanin. It’s tough on discolouration, gentle on your glow, and surprisingly calming on the skin.
Best for: Post-acne marks, sun damage, dullness that won’t budge.
3. Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
No grey cast, no excuses—just sun protection made for us.
If you’re still skipping sunscreen, this is your sign. Created by and for women of colour, this SPF glides on like a moisturizer and melts right in—no ghostly finish, no pilling, and no stress. It hydrates while it protects, making it the perfect base for makeup or bare-faced brilliance.
Best for: Daily wear, sun protection without the chalk.
4. The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
Exfoliation without the fear factor.
Mandelic acid is the gentle giant of the AHA family, and it’s perfect for melanin-rich skin that needs a glow-up without the risk of irritation. It evens out tone, smooths rough texture, and fades old acne marks—all while being beginner-friendly and budget-conscious.
Best for Sensitive skin, acid newbies, and anyone playing the long (glow) game.
5. Epara Hydrating Serum
Luxury, but make it Black-owned and deeply nourishing.
This one is for the skincare romantics. Founded by Nigerian beauty entrepreneur OzohuAdoh, Epara was built with melanin-rich skin at its heart. The hydrating serum is rich, restorative, and laced with African botanicals like marula and frankincense. It’s like a luxe facial in a bottle—and your skin will drink it up.
Best for: Dry, dehydrated skin, dullness, anyone who loves a rich-girl glow.
