BrightRay

For Bright Nfor, founder of the natural skincare brand BrightRay, wellness is more than a trend — it’s a legacy.

“BrightRay has always been part of the family,” Nfor said in a recent interview. “Growing up in Cameroon, my mom always tried to get the best for us. My grandfather struggled with strokes, and we used natural oils and ingredients to care for his body and skin.”

Though rooted in family traditions, BrightRay officially launched five years ago as a commercial brand, combining West African heritage with modern skincare needs. Its signature products — triple-butter body butters made with shea, mango and cocoa butters — are now sold online and at local retailers like Owow Beauty Supply in Brooklyn Center.

The idea came from both tradition and necessity.

“I hit that stage as a young adult when you’re always trying to be trendy with skincare, and it’s not always good for your skin — or your wallet,” Nfor said. “So I went back to what I knew, started formulating with family, and focused on what really works.”

BrightRay’s body butters come in four variations:

• Monet, a pomegranate mango blend and bestseller, known for its soft, uplifting scent
• Noble, formulated with olive oil for extra hydration, and spotlighted in June as a Father’s Day gift — $5 off for Men’s Mental Health Month
• Mouna, designed for kids, with gentle ingredients and anti-inflammatory essential oils
• AuraSilk, an unscented blend ideal for sensitive skin, pregnant women, and daily use

All products are pregnancy-safe, free from harsh chemicals, and made with ethically sourced ingredients from Ghana and the Ivory Coast.

One key ingredient in many formulations is ylang ylang essential oil, which Nfor praises for its stress-relieving and mood-lifting properties.

“Five years ago, the world was down,” she said. “But for me, that year was probably the best of my life — because of what I was putting on my body. Ylang ylang lifts you emotionally. It’s about giving people tools for self-love and care.”

Though Nfor is the sole founder, she credits a collaborative support network — family, friends, and mentors — with helping shape the business. The name “BrightRay” came through thoughtful discussion and prayer, chosen for its inclusivity.

“We wanted something that didn’t confuse people — not a bleaching brand, but something that says light, love and wellness for everyone,” she said. “Everybody deserves a bright day and a radiant life.

“Self-care is the start of everything,” Nfor said. “When you feel good, you look good, you attract better. It all starts with loving on yourself.” BrightRay is currently expanding into sugar scrubs and massage oils, continuing its mission of holistic natural care. 

BrightRay will appear at an upcoming event: Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church’s Homecoming Block Party in Minneapolis June 15, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., free and open to the public.

Products are available online at www.brightray.org.

Jasmine McBride welcomes reader responses at jmcbride@spokesman-recorder.com.