I Inquired with Sabrina Elba about her essential beauty routines—here are the practices she considers nonnegotiable.

      When I met Sabrina Elba for a brief conversation in a warm hotel room one late May afternoon, I was immediately drawn to her inviting smile. She gracefully walked across the room and embraced me with a friendly hug (she had to lean down a bit since she stands at 5'10" and was sporting a chic pair of heels) before introducing herself with enthusiasm. Any nervousness I felt upon entering the room quickly faded as we settled onto the couch. For the next hour, we discussed a wide range of topics, including the challenges of sourcing ingredients and supporting rural agricultural communities across Africa, as well as her venture into melanin-inclusive skincare products and the healthy routines that help maintain her radiant complexion. Below, I share insights from Sabrina Elba, a model, UN Goodwill Ambassador, and entrepreneur.

      ### A Conversation with Sabrina Elba: Founder, Model, and UN Goodwill Ambassador

      **What has your relationship with your skin been like over time, and how did you discover the skincare practices that work best for you?**

      I struggled with severe acne during my teenage years while growing up in Vancouver, Canada, where there were very few individuals with melanated skin in my community. I noticed that my skin reacted differently to products than my friends’, and even when my acne cleared up only to return as an adult, I realized the ongoing issues were not my fault. The industry often overlooks testing on darker skin tones and wasn’t addressing my specific concerns as a Black woman. I recognized that darker skin tends to be more sensitive and prone to inflammation, and brands were hesitant to invest the needed time and resources into developing suitable formulations. By focusing on the unique needs of melanin-rich skin, we create products that can benefit everyone. Addressing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and supporting the skin barrier is a universal desire, and these products aren’t just for a niche market. My business partner, Jess [DeBruyne], and I were thrilled to innovate in a space that had previously neglected a community that needed visibility and acknowledgment in the world of preventative skincare.

      Our formulations are rich in antioxidants derived from ingredients rooted in A-beauty (African beauty), which are traditions that have been preserved throughout the continent. It was crucial for us to feature this narrative prominently on our labels. I aim to reclaim those stories and the ingredients that have been appropriated, highlighting the people behind them.

      **With so many products on the market, how did you begin to hone in on the best ingredients for your skincare line?**

      I’ve had the honor of conversing with founders of some of the products I use, and Dr. Barbara Sturm was among those I had an enlightening discussion with, particularly regarding her line for darker skin tones. I expressed my vision of creating a brand dedicated to dark skin, aiming to make effective products accessible for all. I gleaned as much knowledge as possible from discussions with friends and other founders.

      **That must have been quite beneficial for your skincare journey as well! What do you do to maintain such an even-toned and glowing complexion?**

      Thank you! My journey with acne-prone skin has been long, and it’s only recently that I’ve truly embraced how much I have healed and learned to manage my skin. I take that as a significant compliment! For the past five years, I’ve followed my S'Able Labs regimen both day and night, and I’ve witnessed tremendous changes in my skin. Maintaining a consistent routine that protects my skin barrier has been key. We avoid drying alcohols and fragrances, and eliminating those from my regimen has transformed my skin.

      **S'Able Labs was developed with melanin-rich skin in mind, utilizing formulas enhanced by African botanicals. What motivated you to start a skincare brand?**

      It all began with Jess! She has fair skin, and I have darker skin, so we thought, “Let’s find a solution that meets both our skincare needs.” During COVID, we took the time to list the ingredients we wanted—and importantly, those we didn’t. We presented our desired formulations to the labs but had to make adjustments since we aren’t scientists. There was no white-labeling involved, and we are not just faces for an investor’s product! This is genuinely our passion and curiosity.

      We’ve both become aestheticians through this process. It felt so fulfilling that it didn’t seem like work at all. The challenging part of launching a brand is getting it out to the public. We love our product, but educating people about melanin-inclusive skincare can be a hurdle. Many people mistakenly believe it’s only for darker skin when, in reality, it’s suitable for everyone.

      We are thrilled about our new lip salve, which feels approachable and has generated excitement around trying a new lip product. It's a great way to introduce those who have never tried Black-founded skincare to do so. It can be intimidating for many, as there's a perception that such products aren't for everyone, a notion rooted