Our Story
After struggling with chronic skin problems such as acne, razor bumps, and post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation, Patrick created Ceylon as a way to address his most pressing skincare needs. As it turns out, he was not alone. Patrick’s story starts in Mainland China, where he was stationed as a diplomat with the U.S. State Department. Due to the stressful environment in a big, bustling city as well as the extensive air and water pollution, he experienced daily breakouts and routine acne scarring. Despite trying hundreds of products, nothing seemed to help clear up his skin. Through that journey, Patrick discovered that no products specifically catered to men with melanin in their skin. Worse yet, many products on the market contained harmful substances that would bleach the skin or leave it dry and unprotected from the elements. Frustrated with the lack of options for guys like him on the market, he set out to build a company dedicated to providing the best possible skincare products for men of color worldwide.
At Ceylon, our mission is to create accessible, easy-to-use products, specifically formulated to help men of color achieve the best possible skin.
Patrick Boateng II, Founder, Ceylon by Anim Labs
So why the name Ceylon?
Ceylon Tea, otherwise known as Black Tea, is one of the original ingredients in our formulations, included for its antioxidant properties and known for its ability to aid skin healing, improve texture as well as tone evening, and reduce the impact of sun damage. Our manufacturer sources this natural ingredient directly from suppliers in Sri Lanka, the country that originally exported it and made it globally famous. Sri Lanka is an incredibly diverse country with a remarkable history and culture. It means a lot to us to be able to incorporate one of its major exports into our original product. Some see Ceylon being a negative reference to the colonial era in Sri Lanka, so in borrowing it we hope to shift the narrative and be part of a new legacy. We have the utmost respect for this key ingredient and the critical role it has played in our ability to develop the best possible formulations for pigmented skin.
Brand Values
Inclusion
Ceylon Tea, otherwise known as Black Tea, is one of the original ingredients in our formulations, included for its antioxidant properties and known for its ability to aid skin healing and reduce the impact of sun damage. Our manufacturer sourced this natural ingredient directly from suppliers in Sri Lanka, the country that originally exported it and made it globally famous. Sri Lanka is an incredibly diverse country with a remarkable history and culture. It means a lot to us to be able to incorporate one of its major exports into our original product. Some see Ceylon being a negative reference to the colonial era in Sri Lanka, so in borrowing it we hope to shift the narrative and be part of a new legacy. We have the utmost respect for this key ingredient and the critical role it has played in our ability to develop the best possible formulations for pigmented skin.
Community
We are nothing without our community and only exist to serve them. Every decision we make is with our community in mind. We pledge to ensure that our community feels welcomed, included, and heard at all times.
Transparency
We promise to remain completely honest and transparent to our community, whether sharing our journey, discussing our products, or sharing our viewpoint on critical men’s health issues. We are always open to any and all feedback from our community, positive or otherwise.
Inclusion
Ceylon Tea, otherwise known as Black Tea, is one of the original ingredients in our formulations, included for its antioxidant properties and known for its ability to aid skin healing and reduce the impact of sun damage. Our manufacturer sourced this natural ingredient directly from suppliers in Sri Lanka, the country that originally exported it and made it globally famous. Sri Lanka is an incredibly diverse country with a remarkable history and culture. It means a lot to us to be able to incorporate one of its major exports into our original product. Some see Ceylon being a negative reference to the colonial era in Sri Lanka, so in borrowing it we hope to shift the narrative and be part of a new legacy. We have the utmost respect for this key ingredient and the critical role it has played in our ability to develop the best possible formulations for pigmented skin.
Community
We are nothing without our community and only exist to serve them. Every decision we make is with our community in mind. We pledge to ensure that our community feels welcomed, included, and heard at all times.
Transparency
We promise to remain completely honest and transparent to our community, whether sharing our journey, discussing our products, or sharing our viewpoint on critical men’s health issues. We are always open to any and all feedback from our community, positive or otherwise.
Level Up Your Routine
Our 3-step skincare process is the first step towards incredible skin and a healthier you.