The South African skincare brand is spotlighting the science behind melanin-rich skin with its new “Made for Melanin. Made for You.” campaign
For years, many people with darker skin tones have been told they are naturally protected from the damaging effects of the sun. While melanin does provide some natural defence, skincare experts continue to emphasise that skin of colour remains vulnerable to pigmentation, inflammation, premature ageing and long-term UV damage.
Now, South African skincare brand Dermopal is encouraging a more informed conversation through its latest campaign, “Made for Melanin. Made for You.” The initiative aims to educate consumers about the unique needs of melanin-rich skin while highlighting skincare solutions specifically developed to support and protect it.
Why Skin of Colour Requires Specialised Care
Created by renowned dermatologist Dr Leslie Nteta, Dermopal has long focused on skincare tailored to the realities of skin of colour. Yet despite decades of consumer trust, misconceptions around darker skin tones remain widespread.
According to Dr Nteta, highly pigmented skin possesses distinct strengths but also faces unique challenges that are often overlooked.
“Highly pigmented skin has its own strengths, but it also has its own vulnerabilities,” says Dr Nteta. “Concerns such as pigmentation, uneven skin tone, dark marks and premature ageing are often the result of ongoing environmental exposure and inflammation over time. Caring for skin of colour starts with understanding its biology.”
During a recent educational session hosted by the brand, Dr Nteta unpacked the science behind pigmentation, UV exposure and skin barrier health, explaining why specialised skincare can play an important role in maintaining healthy skin across different climates and environments.
The Link Between Sun Protection and Pigmentation
One of the campaign’s key messages is the importance of daily photoprotection.
While sunscreen is commonly associated with preventing sunburn, experts note that for skin of colour, consistent sun protection is also essential for managing pigmentation concerns and maintaining an even complexion.
Many individuals with melanin-rich skin experience persistent conditions such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma and dark marks, which can be triggered or worsened by sun exposure and inflammation.
“Daily photoprotection is deeply connected to pigmentation management and long-term skin health,” explains Dr Nteta.
Dermopal’s Approach to Prevention and Correction
At the heart of the Dermopal range is a simple philosophy: prevention and correction.
The brand’s Moisturising Sunscreen SPF 30+ and SPF 50+ formulations provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection while supporting hydration and skin barrier function. Importantly, the formulas have been developed with darker skin tones in mind, helping to avoid the visible white cast often associated with traditional sunscreens.
For targeted treatment, Dermopal’s Blemish Cream combines kojic acid and glycolic acid to help address hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and the appearance of dark marks. Applied overnight, the formula supports skin renewal while helping improve overall skin clarity.
A More Inclusive Beauty Conversation
Rather than positioning skin of colour as a concern that needs fixing, Dermopal’s campaign focuses on education, representation and informed skincare choices.
The beauty industry has historically offered limited guidance and few targeted solutions for consumers with highly pigmented skin. As awareness around skin health continues to evolve, brands like Dermopal are helping ensure that skin of colour is no longer treated as an afterthought.
Instead, the conversation is shifting towards understanding the unique skincare experiences of melanin-rich skin and providing products designed with those realities in mind.
“Skin of colour deserves more than assumptions or generic skincare advice,” says Dr Nteta. “People deserve products that understand them, respect them and are specifically designed to meet their skincare needs.”
