Full Breakdown
Angel Reese Invests in Skincare Brand Topicals
1/8/2026, 1:04:43 AM
Investment Overview
WNBA star Angel Reese has made a significant investment in the skincare brand Topicals, alongside Nigerian singer Rema and other notable figures from the entertainment and sports industries. The funding round, announced on Wednesday, did not disclose specific terms but is part of Topicals' ongoing efforts to expand its reach. Since its launch in 2020, Topicals has raised over $22.6 million, focusing on products that address skin conditions prevalent among individuals with darker skin tones, such as its popular $22 under-eye masks and $38 Faded Serum.
Cultural Significance and Brand Strategy
Olamide Olowe, founder and CEO of Topicals, emphasized the importance of involving cultural leaders like Reese in the investment process. She noted that many investors have become hesitant to support Black-owned businesses, which can limit their growth potential. “Investors are pulling back their belief in Black-owned … businesses,” Olowe stated, highlighting the need for community-driven investment. By bringing in influential figures, Topicals aims to leverage their personal brands to enhance marketing efficiency and broaden its customer base.
Angel Reese's Expanding Portfolio
Reese's involvement with Topicals marks another strategic move in her burgeoning business career, which includes previous partnerships with brands like Mielle Organics and Reebok. Despite earning a modest salary of $74,909 from the WNBA in 2025, her overall income is bolstered by her modeling career and endorsements, with her NIL valuation peaking at around $1.8 million during her college years. Reese's investment in Topicals aligns with her growing influence in the fashion industry, as she has also participated in high-profile events like the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.
Market Challenges and Future Growth
Olowe acknowledged the challenging economic climate in 2025 but expressed confidence in Topicals' ability to cater to customers with chronic skin conditions, which she believes will drive future growth. “We’ve widened the customer base … in 2026, a lot of our growth is about how we’re using the brand as a platform,” she stated. This strategic focus aims to position Topicals as a leader in the skincare market while addressing the unique needs of its diverse clientele.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the positive outlook, there remains skepticism regarding the sustainability of investments in Black-owned brands. Critics argue that the perception of these brands as niche markets can hinder broader investment opportunities. Olowe's assertion that many investors view Black-owned businesses as limited in scope underscores the ongoing challenges faced by minority entrepreneurs in securing funding.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When you think of [Topicals], you think of our marketing, storytelling, and products, and you think a lot about culture,” — Olamide Olowe, Founder & CEO of Topicals
- “Investors are pulling back their belief in Black-owned … businesses. We are really proud that other people who have capital in the culture want [our kind of business] to grow,” — Olamide Olowe, Founder & CEO of Topicals
- “Gotta keep the eyes nice and fresh. So I use these, the topicals,” — Angel Reese, WNBA Star
Angel Reese's investment in Topicals not only reflects her personal brand's alignment with the skincare industry but also highlights the broader implications of supporting Black-owned businesses in a challenging economic landscape.
