The discourse surrounding sun protection for darker skin tones has gained momentum in recent years – but what do we know about choosing the right sunscreen for our health and well-being? Recent media coverage has highlighted concerns about the chemicals used in many sunscreens, and how these may cause harm with regular use. In fact, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – one of the two primary global regulators of sunscreen ingredients – removed 14 out of 16 chemicals found in SPF products from its GRASE (generally accepted as safe and effective) category, indicating that a new generation of safe, effective sunscreen is in demand.
Since this change, the SPF market has increased in size, with independent brands paving the way for a new standard in sun protection. One such brand is BEAME, created by Eniye Okah after a period of intense stress left her with skincare issues which worsened following sun exposure. BEAME’s SPF 30 facial mist has a formula with stress-reducing properties, can be reapplied over makeup, and leaves no white cast (ideal for melanated skin).
Here, Eniye tells us about her personal experience with sun care, the effects of stress on the skin, and how she manages her stress levels while running her own business.
Why SPF so important to use throughout the year?
SPF isn’t just for sunny days; it’s essential year-round. UVA and UVB rays are present even on cloudy days, and UVA rays can penetrate windows, causing long-term skin damage like premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer. UV rays can reflect off surfaces like snow and water, making sun protection crucial even in winter. Continuous sun exposure accelerates collagen breakdown and deepens existing skin concerns like dark spots. Consistent use of SPF ensures that your skin is shielded from these harmful effects every single day.
How did your personal experience with stress and its impact on your skin inspire you to launch BEAME?
My journey to launching BEAME was rooted in a very personal experience. A few years ago, I went through a period of intense stress that took a serious toll on my skin and mental well-being. I noticed my skin becoming more dull, sensitive, reactive, and prone to breakouts, which only worsened under sun exposure.
I learned that when your body is stressed, cortisol (stress hormone) levels rise, making your skin more susceptible to irritation, inflammation, and environmental damage. I realised there was a need for an SPF that didn’t just protect against sun damage but also helped to calm stressed skin and support overall wellness. That’s when the idea for BEAME was born—a product designed to not only protect your skin but also enhance your mood with ingredients that promote holistic well-being.
How does BEAME incorporate holistic wellness into its SPF skincare products?
BEAME’s approach to SPF is more than just sun protection; it’s about promoting a balanced, stress-free lifestyle. Our formula blends clinically proven UV-blocking ingredients and actives known for their calming effects on both the skin and mind. By integrating mood-enhancing scents and stress-reducing properties, BEAME helps create a skincare routine that feels refreshing and uplifting.
We carefully selected ingredients that not only defend against UVA and UVB rays but also support your skin’s natural barrier, reduce inflammation, and provide hydration—everything needed for healthy, resilient skin. The holistic touch lies in how BEAME aims to lower stress, both by simplifying the skincare process and enhancing your overall experience.
What are the typical signs that stress is starting to affect the skin?
Stress shows up on your skin in several ways. Common signs include increased sensitivity, redness, breakouts and dryness. Stress triggers a spike in cortisol, leading to excess oil production, which can cause acne. It also disrupts your skin’s natural barrier, making it more vulnerable to irritation and inflammation. You might notice dullness, uneven texture, or flare-ups of chronic conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. If left unchecked, stress can lead to premature ageing, as it accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin, causing fine lines and wrinkles.
What else should we be doing as part of a holistic skincare routine?
A holistic skincare routine goes beyond just topical products—it’s about nourishing your skin from the inside out and managing overall well-being. Along with consistent SPF use, incorporate a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, stay hydrated, and ensure you’re getting enough sleep. Regularly practising stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or even gentle exercise is key. Adapt your skincare routine to your skin’s needs, focusing on hydration, barrier support, and minimal yet effective ingredients. Finally, don’t forget to include rituals that bring you joy, whether it’s using a calming facial mist or simply taking a few minutes each day to relax.
Running a successful brand can be stressful. How do you personally cope with stress now, and what practices have you found most effective in maintaining your skin health and overall well-being?
Running BEAME has definitely had its stressful moments, but I’ve learned how important it is to prioritise self-care. Regular exercise, especially outdoor walks, has been a game-changer for both my mental health and skin. I also practise mindfulness and make sure to take breaks when needed. Sticking to a consistent skincare routine, which includes hydrating and stress-relieving products, helps me keep my skin balanced.
I also incorporate skin cycling into my routine to avoid irritation while still getting the benefits of active ingredients. As someone with oily skin, I used to think that hydrating products would make my skin oilier, but it’s actually the opposite—hydration is essential for all skin types and keeps oil production in check. I also prioritise sleep and I also eat a high-protein diet, which plays a key role in supporting both my skin health and overall well-being.
These practices, along with setting boundaries and taking time to recharge, have been crucial for managing stress.
What do you believe are the most common stressors affecting Black women of your generation today?
For many Black women today, the pressure is multi-layered. Economic challenges, societal expectations, and the constant need to navigate microaggressions and systemic biases are significant sources of stress. There’s also the pressure to balance work, family, and personal growth while often dealing with a lack of adequate representation in spaces like healthcare and wellness. Additionally, unrealistic beauty standards and the constant messaging around skin tone and hair texture can contribute to chronic stress. These combined stressors not only impact mental health but also manifest physically, particularly in skin issues like hyperpigmentation and acne.
How can people learn more about psychodermatology to help manage their own skincare troubles and understand more about the mind-skin connection?
Psychodermatology is an emerging field that explores how emotional and psychological factors influence skin health. To learn more, I recommend exploring resources like books on the subject, such as The Mind-Skin Connection by Dr. Ted Grossbart, and following experts in the field on platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn.
Additionally, speaking to a dermatologist who understands the psychological impact of skin conditions or a therapist who specialises in stress management can be beneficial. Online courses, wellness podcasts, and community groups focused on holistic health are also great ways to dive deeper into understanding the connection between mind and skin.
What were the biggest challenges in creating a brand that fills a gap in the SPF market?
One of the biggest challenges has been educating people about the importance of daily sun protection and the connection between skin health and emotional well-being. Many still view sunscreen as something only needed on sunny days, not realising that UV exposure is constant year-round and can lead to long-term skin damage.
Another major hurdle is helping people understand the importance of reapplying their SPF throughout the day, especially since many find it inconvenient or worry about it disrupting makeup. On top of that, there’s a lack of awareness around how stress and emotional health impact the skin, which is a key part of BEAME’s mission. We had to educate our audience not just on the physical benefits of daily SPF, but also on how a holistic approach—including stress-relieving ingredients—can support both skin health and mental wellness.
Additionally, overcoming the stigma around sunscreens leaving a white cast on darker skin tones was crucial. This required consistent community engagement, educational content, and clear communication to change perceptions and emphasise the emotional and skin health benefits BEAME offers.
What are your goals for BEAME?
Our goal is to redefine sun care by making it a seamless, enjoyable part of daily life. We’re focused on creating products that are easy to use on the go and can be effortlessly reapplied, ensuring consistent sun protection no matter how busy your day gets. We aim to be the go-to brand for people who want both effective sun protection and a holistic approach to skin and mental wellness. Inclusivity is key for us—our products are designed to work beautifully on all skin tones and types. Beyond launching our first product, we envision expanding our product range with more innovations that continue to merge skincare with mental well-being.
Ultimately, we want to empower people to embrace sun protection without compromising on ease, aesthetics, or self-care.
Shop BEAME at beamespf.com
