Dr. Naana Boakye Skin Care Understands Melanin-rich Skin

Dr. Naana Boakye is the new brand from Naana Boakye, MD, MPH, FAAD, a board certified dermatologist who cofounded Karité Skincare, served as chief medical officer for brand-building firm A-Frame, and consulted on celebrity beauty launches including Naomi Osaka's Kinlo, Gabrielle and Dwayne Wade's Proudly, and John Legend's Loved01. With her latest brand launch, Boakye is keeping an eye on inclusive, clinically sound skin care.

"As a Black dermatologist, I understand the unique skin care needs and cultural challenges faced by people of color," Boakye explains. "Representation in dermatology is essential to provide culturally competent care and address the specific concerns of diverse skin tones."

• Learn more about Dr. Boakye's skin care philosophy: 3 Benefits of Lifestyle Dermatology

The Fresh Face Cleanser ($45.00), a vegan formulation comprising aloe vera, evening primrose oil, glycerin and oat-derived amino acids to gently remove dirt, excess oil and other debris.Dr. Naana BoakyeThe challenge is significant. A 2023 report on the U.S. medical industry noted that, "Currently, only three percent of dermatologists identify as Black, far less than the population proportion of Black individuals (13%). Physician-patient race concordance may help to improve patient satisfaction and engagement."

This lack of Black dermatologists could also be impacting the availability of clinically effective formulations for Black consumers, as well as other people of color.

"One of the most significant gaps in the beauty industry is the lack of products formulated with an understanding of the structural and functional differences of melanin-rich skin and the conditions that affect this group," says Boakye. "We need more inclusive research and development to ensure everyone can access effective, safe, and suitable skin care solutions."

Dr. Naana Beauty is designed to address the specific needs of people of color but also presents solutions that are universally beneficial. The range includes:

• The Fresh Face Cleanser ($45.00), a vegan formulation comprising aloe vera, evening primrose oil, glycerin and oat-derived amino acids to gently remove dirt, excess oil and other debris.
• The Cocoa Barrier Cream ($75.00) features sunflower seed oil and unrefined shea butter, blueberry seed extract and black currant seed oil, niacinamide, licorice extract, soybean and bakuchiol, cocoa and resveratrol, and probiotics and peptides.
• The anti-inflammatory Cocoa Brightening Mask ($60.00) comprises cocoa powder, jojoba beads, gluconolactone and mandelic acid, and tranexamic acid and licorice extract.