4.5.6 Skin
Finding the perfect skincare products can feel like a never-ending search–especially if you have melanin-rich skin. I've wasted money on skincare that didn't live up to its claims (like reducing hyperpigmentation) too many times to count. While on my quest for products that genuinely work, 4.5.6 Skin landed on my radar. Founded by Noelly Michoux, the brand focuses on caring for deeper complexions through research, testing, and calculated formulas.
4.5.6 Skin
Founded: Noelly Michoux, 2020
Based in: France
Pricing: $$-$$$
Best Known For: Creating custom skincare products for deeper skin tones.
Most Popular Product: Green Bae Clearing Gel Cleanser
Other Brands You'll Love: Indie Lee, Rosen Skincare, and Urban Skin Rx
Fun Fact: 4.5.6 Skin founder Noelly Michoux met co-founder Carlos A. Charles, MD at a dermatologist appointment to address her hyperpigmentation.
Michoux launched her brand in 2020 after spending years looking for products that fit her darker skin's needs. "My story is very similar to the story of millions of women of color around the world," she says. "I would go [shopping for skincare], and nothing worked. I got really curious, and I started to research. I thought, There must be a correlation between me having melanin, [another woman] having melanin, and we're all complaining about the same thing." As Michoux began building her brand, she realized the issue stemmed from inequity in skincare science. She learned products like SPF only require testing on fairer skin types, and marketing claims like "for all shades and types" can often be deceptive.
With 4.5.6 Skin, Michoux dreamed of ridding the skincare industry of its "one-size-fits-all" approach. "The way my skin is structured means hydration has to be thought about differently," Michoux says. "It means my skin will react very differently than my white friends when I have inflammation and irritation."
She teamed up with co-founders Imen Jerbi Azaiez, Ph.D., and Carlos A. Charles, MD, to bring her vision to life. Together, they developed the first skincare lab to study the needs of darker skin (scientifically known as skin phototypes IV, V, VI) and created a range of thoughtful products. Currently, 4.5.6 Skin offers six customizable products (ranging from an exfoliant mask to a brightening serum) made with high-performance, biodynamic ingredients. By taking a skin quiz and submitting selfies, Michoux's team is able to tailor its core formulas based on your current concerns. "We want to stay focused on skin physiology and make sure we do something good for [people's] health and skin," Michoux adds.
If you're ready to add 4.5.6 Skin products to your routine, we've got you covered. Ahead, read all about the brand's best products.
Green Bae Clearing Gel Cleanser
Green Bae Clearing Gel Cleanser is popular for many reasons, but its texture tops the list. With its lightweight feel and minimal lathering, this gentle cleanser spells luxury. Its job is to relieve acne flare-ups by regulating the excess production of sebum, all while illuminating the skin.
This gel cleanser is packed with natural ingredients—including bitter orange flower oil for promoting healthy skin cell regeneration, radish root enzyme to preserve the formula naturally, and hemp seed oil, known for its omega acids. There's also allantoin for collagen production and vitamin E for rejuvenating and protecting the skin barrier.
Come Clean Hydrating Cleansing Oil
The Come Clean Cleansing Oil is great for enhancing hydration and evening pigmentation. The brand recommends applying the oil over your face and neck, applying water to your hands, and massaging for 20 seconds to break down makeup and debris.
The pleasantly fragranced oil cleanser leaves your face feeling soft and supple, thanks to nourishing ingredients like sunflower oil and cherry kernel seed.
To Be Clear Resurfacing Exfoliant Mask
Some exfoliants feel harsh on the skin, but the To Be Clear Resurfacing Exfoliant Mask offers a non-irritating experience. The creamy, copper-colored exfoliant is formulated with rich ingredients (like pumpkin enzyme, shea butter, rosehip seed oil, and niacinamide) designed to remove dead skin cells and boost radiance.
After leaving the mask on for three minutes and rinsing with warm water, you'll be met with glowing, baby-soft skin that feels hydrated beneath the surface. Curious how often to add this into your routine? The brand recommends applying it two or three times per week, increasing usage if you need more exfoliation.
Méla Skin Reset Biomimetic Essence
You might be wondering, What's an essence? Well, it's like a primer for your skincare routine, often bridging the gap between your cleanser and serum. The newly-launched Méla Skin Reset Biomimetic Essence contains standout ingredients like niacinamide to keep inflammation at bay and spirulina powder to reduce hyperpigmentation.
For best use, apply three or more pumps of the thin, silky formula to your skin. If it feels slightly tacky, don't worry as that's a sign the product is working.
Sevenly Delight Brightening Concentrated Serum
This serum is made with seven glow-boosting ingredients to help target dark hyperpigmentation, neutralize free radicals, and soothe skin. The most unique ingredient? Honey bee milk, which is rich in lipids that boost collagen production, regulate oil production, and increase hydration.
Each bottle contains 1.01 fluid ounces of product, but a little goes a long way (trust me). You only need to apply two or three pumps to your skin in the morning and evening.
Day Hack Moisturizing Rebalancing Cream
There's a reason why the Day Hack Moisturizing Rebalancing Cream has a five-star rating. It revives dehydrated skin with the help of water-retaining active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, rose oil, and fenugreek seed extract. The mattifying moisturizer also shields skin from pollutants while simultanously strengthening your skin barrier (alpinum flower and yeast extract help accomplish this).
After applying serum, swipe the cream onto your skin and massage. You'll immediately notice your skin feels hydrated and has a natural glow. If you plan to wear makeup, the brand suggests waiting a minute before applying the product.
