Tell us a little bit about your background.
My background is in policy and design. Prior to entering the skincare world, I was a US diplomat. I struggled with my skin and spent an incredible amount of time searching for products that would work well for my skin.
What was the inspiration for your brand? When did you know it was the right moment to launch it?
My experience of not having simple, scientifically-backed options for my skin really formed the core of the brand. Additionally, it felt like we needed a brand that could speak to our community in an open, thoughtful, and interesting way, allowing for an organic and inclusive culture to develop. I don’t think there was ever a moment that felt ‘right’. Once the launch products were in development, our goal became to launch as quickly as possible.
Describe your brand in three words.
Science. Community. Cool.
2020 led to a major disruption in the beauty industry. From a global pandemic to nationwide racial justice protests, as a Black-owned brand, how did that impact your business?
It’s hard to say because not all Black-owned beauty brands have the same set of circumstances. I can really only speak for our company but since last year, on the part of our community, there’s definitely been an increase in overall excitement with what we’re building. This largely stems from the fact that we have exceptionally high-quality products and the added bonus that we are a Black-led company, which is now top of mind for many in our audience.
How have you adapted to ensure the continued growth of your brand? (I.e. Exhibiting in WeCosmoprof and finding distribution instead of attending a physical Cosmoprof NA show)
We’ve changed our approach a bit, focusing mainly on expanding distribution with digitally-savvy retailers that can help us reach new audiences. This year we launched at Thirteen Lune, AMP Beauty, YAA & Co (Australia and New Zealand), and Nordstrom (in-store and online), so the approach is working.
Without giving away too many of your secrets, what is your direction for the future of the brand? Any product launches?
For the future of the brand, we hope to continue leading the way with our science. We are creating the market, so others who want to follow will need to deliver on this aspect as well. This year we plan on launching a few products that can be added to our existing 3-step routine, including sun care and targeted treatments for specific skin concerns. We spent a lot of time talking to our community about where we ought to go next, so we’re pretty excited about introducing these new products.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting their own beauty brand?
Don’t do it! Just kidding. I think the single most important piece of advice I would give is to commit to quality. Ultimately, this brand doesn’t exist for you, the founder, but for your community of customers. It’s your responsibility to deliver the best possible products, not to satisfy your ego.
Having lived in different countries, where would you like to visit once the pandemic is over?
I was living in China when I started CEYLON. I’d love to visit Tokyo again. I’m really into Japanese men’s fashion, so it’d be great to see what’s the latest out there.
ABOUT Ceylon Skincare
CEO & Founder of Ceylon Skincare, Patrick Boateng
Ceylon was created after founder of color, Patrick Boateng, struggled with daily breakouts during his tenure as a Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Department of State. While serving in Guangzhou, China, Patrick suffered from acne scarring and pigmentation issues and was dissatisfied with the skincare products available. He found that there is a lack of skincare solutions created specifically for men of color. Ultimately, Ceylon seeks to help bridge the gap between men of color and better dermatological health.
To learn more about Ceylon Skincare, Click Here.
Categorized in: Spotlights