Olivia Paul, pioneer in cosmetics for black and mixed-race skin
Olivia Paul, a chemical engineer by training, is the founder of Brown Skin Beauty, a laboratory specializing in the formulation of cosmetics for black skin and Afro hair. After studying chemistry at the École Supérieure de Chimie organique et minérale, she completed an internship at Chanel, confirming her ambition to work in the cosmetics sector.
She then acquired a wealth of experience in several companies, both in finished products and raw materials. And her latest assignment with Aroma-zone was a real revelation. Indeed, Aroma-zone is the leading distributor of “raw” products for amateurs wishing to create their own beauty routine. The company’s success reflects the advent of new attitudes to beauty care.
Do it yourself” is a strong trend for a growing number of consumers who are unable to find suitable products on the market. Aware of the lack of an offer aimed at black and mixed-race populations, the idea of creating a company to fill this gap became an obvious one.
The creation of the Brown Skin Beauty laboratory
In 2020, just before the pandemic, Olivia decides to set up her own laboratory. She chose not to launch her own brand, but to help other entrepreneurs develop theirs. This adventure began in her garage, where she set up a space that complied with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. Supported by her husband, she ran the project alone for three years before moving to larger premises to accommodate a team and her customers.
Today, Olivia works with over fifty brands. The hair care sector, which accounts for around 60% of her projects, is a priority for ethnic populations often overlooked by the major groups. Skincare accounts for 30% of her business, with make-up and sun creams making up the remaining 10%.
Targeting black and mixed-race populations
The product development process takes a year and involves three main stages. First, there’s research and development, then regulatory testing, and finally production. Olivia Paul insists on the importance of a specific approach for black and mixed-race skin. Conventional laboratories don’t offer formulations to suit all populations. Hyperpigmentation, hydration and capillary nutrition are just some of the issues that require adapted formulations.
With Brown Skin Beauty, Olivia Paul has established herself as the answer to these specific needs. Her ambition doesn’t stop there: she wants to develop her laboratory and create a marketplace dedicated to ethnic brands. A true pioneer in the cosmetics industry.
Read also
