The Lakū Journal
Ingredient science, routines, and Hally's notes on melanin-rich skincare. Every article reviewed by a certified formulator.
Why Your Sunscreen Is Grey on You: SPF Chemistry for Melanin-Rich Skin
If your sunscreen leaves a grey cast on melanin-rich skin, it's the zinc and titanium. Here's the chemistry — and what to use instead.
Brand storyHaitian Skincare Traditions: Why I Named My Brand 'Backyard'
The Haitian Creole word for 'backyard' — and how three traditions from the lakou (turme...
Black skincarePIH vs PIE vs Melasma vs Ochronosis: An Honest Guide for Melanin-Rich Skin
A formulator's honest guide to PIH, PIE, melasma, and ochronosis on melanin-rich skin. ...
HeritageHaitian Skincare Traditions Meet Modern Formulation: The Story Behind Lakū
From grandmothers' kitchens in Port-au-Prince to a New Orleans formulation lab — the st...
HyperpigmentationThe 4-Week Turmeric Face Cream Challenge: What to Expect Each Week
A week-by-week guide to what to expect when you commit to Lakū's Turmeric Face Cream fo...
Dark spotsHow Long Does It Really Take to Fade Dark Spots on Black Skin?
The honest timeline for fading hyperpigmentation on melanin-rich skin — week by week, w...
HyperpigmentationTranexamic Acid for PIH: Safe, Effective, and Under-the-Radar
Tranexamic acid is one of the most effective, least-talked-about fade ingredients for m...
HyperpigmentationNiacinamide for Melanin-Rich Skin: The Gentle Fader That Actually Works
Why niacinamide is the gentlest, safest dark-spot fading ingredient for melanin-rich sk...
IngredientsKitchen Turmeric vs Formulated Turmeric Skincare: Why Your DIY Mask Stained Your Face
Why your DIY turmeric mask left a yellow stain instead of fading dark spots — a formula...
HyperpigmentationWhy SPF Matters More on Melanin-Rich Skin (The Science + The Myth)
The myth that Black skin doesn't need sunscreen is dangerous. A certified formulator br...
HyperpigmentationNighttime Skincare Routine for Fading Dark Spots (Built by a Repair Specialist)
A step-by-step evening routine for fading hyperpigmentation on melanin-rich skin — buil...
HyperpigmentationMorning Skincare Routine for Hyperpigmentation on Black Skin (Built by a Formulator)
A complete morning skincare routine for fading dark spots on melanin-rich skin — built ...
HyperpigmentationThe 6 Safest Brightening Ingredients for Melanin-Rich Skin (and 3 to Avoid)
Not every 'brightening' ingredient is safe on melanin-rich skin. A certified formulator...