About Us
Established in 2013 by Nneka Fleming, Novel Skincare is a British brand that intertwines the art of storytelling with the science of skincare. Drawing inspiration from literature and personal narratives, Novel Skincare views each individual's skin as a living story, reflecting their experiences and journeys.
Nneka's background in the creative industry, connecting beauty brands with artists, led her to recognise the untold stories within the beauty sector. She observed that while the industry often focused on colour cosmetics, skincare held a more personal significance. As she articulated in an interview with Sonder & Tell:
"There are so many untold stories in beauty. And while the beauty industry was focused on colour cosmetics, for me skincare is more personal. Skin connects us and sets us apart. Your skin tells your story."
— Nneka Fleming, Founder of Novel Skincare
At Novel Skincare, products are conceptualised as "Chapters," each designed to resonate with different facets of one's life. This approach allows customers to select skincare that aligns with their current experiences, emotions, and needs. The brand emphasises inclusivity and authenticity, aiming to create products that not only care for the skin but also honour the individual's personal narrative.
All Novel Skincare products are natural, vegan, and cruelty-free, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. The brand's packaging is fully recyclable, further underscoring its dedication to environmental responsibility.
Beyond Novel Skincare, Nneka Fleming has also founded Airfro, a haircare brand tailored for active lifestyles. Airfro addresses the unique needs of textured hair, offering solutions that refresh curls between washes and workouts. The brand's innovative approach has garnered attention, leading retail partnerships with Libery's of London, Harrods and Sephora and a selection as one of the five UK grantees in Glossier's Black Beauty Grant Programme in 2023 .
The latest chapter in Nneka's journey is Savons D'Afrique, a collection that marries her passion for African beauty heritage with modern fragrance. These handcrafted soaps celebrate African floral notes blended with tropical fruits and lush vegetation, offering a sensory experience that connects tradition with contemporary skincare. The initiative also emphasises community engagement, working with local communities to source ingredients and share their stories.
Through her ventures, Nneka Fleming continues to champion narratives that celebrate individuality, culture, and authenticity in the beauty industry.