Topicals

About Topicals

Topicals operates as a direct-to-consumer skincare brand with a mission to redefine the narrative around chronic skin conditions by merging dermatological science with mental health advocacy. Founded in August 2020 by Olamide Olowe and Claudia Teng, the company emerged from their personal experiences with chronic skin issues and the desire for more inclusive and effective treatments. Olowe, who serves as CEO, previously co-founded SheaGIRL and graduated from UCLA with a degree in political science and a minor in entrepreneurship. Teng, the Chief Product Officer, was a pre-med student at UC Berkeley and has conducted extensive dermatology research at Stanford. Their shared journey of feeling isolated by their skin conditions, such as post-barbae folliculitis and severe eczema, fueled their creation of a brand that champions "funner flare-ups" and destigmatizes skin imperfections.

The company's business model centers on the sale of science-backed skincare products, available through its own website and retail partners like Sephora, where it has become one of the fastest-growing skincare brands. The primary clientele are Gen Z and millennial consumers who resonate with the brand's authenticity and focus on inclusivity, particularly for diverse skin tones. Marketing heavily relies on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, user-generated content, and influencer partnerships to build a strong community. A core component of its strategy is social impact; Topicals donates at least 1% of its profits to mental health organizations and has established a Mental Health Fund to support nonprofits in marginalized communities.

Topicals' product line is intentionally concise, focusing on potent solutions for specific concerns. Its hero products include "Faded," a serum for hyperpigmentation and dark spots, and "Like Butter," a hydrating mask for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. The formulations are developed in partnership with a scientific advisory board and utilize scientifically-proven ingredients, while being free from dyes, parabens, and sulfates. The brand has successfully raised significant capital, including a $10 million Series A round in 2022 led by CAVU Consumer Partners, bringing its total funding to over $25 million. This financial backing, supported by investors like Marcy Venture Partners and celebrities such as Issa Rae and Gabrielle Union, is aimed at expanding its omnichannel growth, hiring new talent, and increasing brand awareness.