Olamide Olowe is a beauty entrepreneur reshaping the industry as Founder & CEO of Topicals, a popular skincare brand addressing chronic skin conditions.

Olamide’s journey into the beauty industry was deeply personal. As someone who grew up with chronic skin conditions, she recognized a gap in the market for products that catered to diverse skin tones and conditions. This led to the creation of Topicals in 2020, a brand dedicated to transforming the way people feel about their skin through effective products and mental health advocacy.

Topicals quickly gained traction, known for its science-backed formulas and vibrant branding. The brand’s commitment to inclusivity and community resonated with consumers, and Olamide became the youngest Black woman to raise over $10 million in venture funding.

In 2024, Olamide, alongside Topicals President Sochima Mbadugha, launched Cost of Doing Business (CODB), a holding company aimed at acquiring and nurturing brands at the intersection of culture, community, and commerce. Their mission is to build a portfolio of brands that deliver exceptional products and also uphold the values of diversity and representation.

CODB’s inaugural acquisition was Bread Beauty Supply, an Australian hair care brand founded by Maeva Heim in 2020. Bread became known for its minimalist packaging and celebration of textured hair, securing partnerships with major retailers like Sephora and Ulta. The acquisition by CODB marks a significant milestone for the team, as it brought together two brands led by Black women with a shared vision for redefining beauty standards.

A key aspect of the acquisition was ensuring that Bread’s creative direction remained intact. Maeva retains her role as Chief Creative Officer, while CODB will take on strategic operations. This approach further validates CODB’s commitment to empowering founders and preserving the authenticity of the brands they acquire. Under CODB’s guidance, Bread is poised for significant expansion. Beyond retail growth, Bread is introducing initiatives like “Everybody Eats,” which supports food banks and provides grants for creative endeavors, reflecting the brand’s commitment to community upliftment.

CODB plans to continue building a diverse portfolio of brands that resonate with a broad audience while centering marginalized communities. Olamide’s leadership exemplifies how business acumen and cultural consciousness can coexist. In an industry often criticized for its lack of diversity, Olamide’s work with Topicals and CODB represents a transformative shift. By creating spaces where Black owned brands can thrive without sacrificing their identity, she is changing the face of beauty and inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs to lead with purpose and authenticity.