Founded by Cynthia after her own long struggle with acne, scarring, and hyperpigmentation, Velvé makes skincare that pairs African botanicals with modern skin science. Inspired by African heritage and crafted in New York, the female-founded brand develops proprietary technologies including AquaNile Brew™ and African Black Soap Technology™ for concise, high-performance routines. Its formulas are vegan and cruelty-free, and the company supports ethical sourcing and girls’ education in Africa.
Akuwa SkincareFounded by first-generation Nigerian-Liberian Precious Gabriel, Akuwa Skincare makes inclusive, African-inspired skincare for all skin tones. Its two-product line centers on botanical formulas such as the Elite Glow Serum and Ultra Vital Pudding moisturizer, with clean, fragrance-free, vegan and cruelty-free ingredients. The brand pairs that focus with earth-conscious packaging and a partnership planting 100 trees each month.BROOKLYN, NY
Prakti BeautyFounded by Pritika Swarup, Prakti Beauty makes clean skincare that pairs time-trusted Ayurvedic wisdom with modern science, including its award-winning PritiPolish rice exfoliator. The New York company develops vegan, cruelty-free formulas that are dermatologist-tested and designed to support balanced, healthy skin, including sensitive skin. Its ingredients are ethically and sustainably sourced, and its packaging is sustainably produced.NEW YORK, NY
Alder New YorkBrooklyn-based founders Nina Zilka and David Krause created Alder New York in 2016 to make streamlined botanical skincare for all skin types, ages, genders, and ethnicities. The queer- and woman-owned independent brand pairs plant extracts with science-backed, dermatologist-approved actives in vegan personal-care formulas. Its products are third-party vetted by the Environmental Working Group and verified by Vegan Action.BROOKLYN, NY
NFZD BeautyCreated by Briggitta after she struggled to find beauty products that represented and worked for her skin, NFZD Beauty is a Black-woman-owned skincare company centered on inclusion. It makes vegan, cruelty-free botanical skincare for all skin types, with particular attention to the needs of melanin-rich skin. A portion of every sale supports Jenesse Center’s work with survivors and families affected by domestic violence.