Palesa Lephallo is reshaping the beauty and skincare industry through Dipalesa Biotech Lab, a company she founded in 2021.
Based in Lenasia, Gauteng, the lab produces cosmetics designed for the unique needs of African skin, filling a gap overlooked by many global brands.
Lephallo’s journey began after earning a National Diploma in Chemical Engineering at the University of South Africa.
Unable to find employment, she turned to entrepreneurship, using her skills to create skincare solutions that address conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and ageing.
“I founded this business to contribute positively to my community and industry. After facing setbacks in a previous venture, I used those experiences as learning opportunities, eventually launching the Lab during the challenging times of COVID-19,” she said.
Her inspiration stemmed from recognising the lack of products tailored to melanin-rich skin. She saw an opportunity to empower individuals to embrace their natural beauty with effective, safe formulations.
“Each formula undergoes rigorous testing to ensure safety, effectiveness, and compatibility with African skin.
“This attention to detail has helped the brand gain a reputation for nourishing products that promote even skin tone, particularly addressing concerns like hyperpigmentation,” she said.
Dipalesa’s product line includes cleansers, moisturisers, serums, sunscreens, and treatments for conditions like albinism and vitiligo.
Dipalesa sunscreen
A major breakthrough came in October 2024 when Dipalesa’s sunscreen was stocked at Pick 'n Pay Woodmead.
Dipalesa sunscreen is a cream that protects the skin from the sun's ultravoilet (UV) radiation.
UV radiation is invisible light from the sun that can harm the skin and eyes.
“Retailing with Pick ‘n Pay has been a dream of mine to see our products being on such a platform. I would walk those aisles and just imagine myself one day picking up my product off the shelve, and that dream has finally come to pass,” she shared.
Dipalesa Biotech Lab has grown steadily, employing 10 young staff members and gaining support from the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA). With grants and equipment funding, Lephallo has scaled production and improved packaging.
Looking ahead, she plans to transform the lab into a world-class research facility, enhancing skincare innovations and exploring pharmaceutical-grade cosmetics. Her ultimate goal is to continue empowering communities by prioritising inclusivity and quality.
For more information about Dipalesa Biotech Lab contact Palesa on 071 557 6026
Website: https://dipalesabioteclab.zo.za
Email: info@dipalesabiotechlab.co.za
The NYDA can be reached at www.nyda.gov.za
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