B.A.F.F.L.E.D. Spotlights
Black Girl Sunscreen!
No matter the season, no matter the location, sunscreen is essential for all skin types. Black Girl Sunscreen has changed the game, creating a sunscreen suitable for melanin-popping skin, with no ashy residue, and healthy ingredients, too!
We got to chat with the creator of Black Girl Sunscreen, Shontay Lunday, to hear more about the brand.
Check it out!
I created BGS because I am my own customer. The name is intentional because I want other women of color to know that this product is for them.
No matter the season, no matter the location, sunscreen is essential for all skin types. Black Girl Sunscreen has changed the game, creating a sunscreen suitable for melanin-popping skin, with no ashy residue, and healthy ingredients, too!
We got to chat with the creator of Black Girl Sunscreen, Shontay Lunday, to hear more about the brand.
Check it out!
How did you get started in beauty and skincare?
It was never my intention to be in the beauty or skincare industry; I just saw a problem that needed to be solved.
What did you find to be missing from the industry that you saw fit to add?
The problem for me was that big brand sunscreens leave a chalky white residue. These brands just weren’t checking for women of color. It was more about protecting skin, so it didn’t matter if the sunscreen made you look good or feel good.
What makes Black Girl Sunscreen extra special? Why this name?
Black Girl Sunscreen was developed for women of color with natural ingredients that are appropriate for our skin complexion. We have eliminated the tell-tale white residue, all fragrances, parabens and all things that are toxic to the environment such as oxybenzone. The last thing you want is to be ashy, period.
I created BGS because I am my own customer. The name is intentional because I want other women of color to know that this product is for them.
What was your greatest challenge in launching Black Girl Sunscreen? Are there any challenges that just won't go away?
The biggest challenge for us has been dispelling the myth that people of color don’t need to wear sunscreen. This misconception may come from the upbringing of people of color (i.e. home remedies, old school mentality) as well as advertising and public awareness campaigns being geared towards fair-skinned individuals. However, people of color are at risk of getting damage to the skin despite the presence of melanin. Research shows African Americans have the highest rate of mortality in the U.S. population after receiving a melanoma diagnosis. These statistics can’t be ignored. Yes, “black doesn’t crack” but it needs to be protected.
What's next for Black Girl Sunscreen?
We started BGS with the goal of eliminating white residue but now we’re onto bigger things; we’re creating a legacy and shifting mindsets. Our mission is to create awareness globally around skin cancer, melanoma and sunburn. Black Girl Sunscreen will influence future generations to be skin conscious and dispel stereotypes related to people of color and sun protection.
What's something you would tell growing brands to help them on their way?
Follow your passion. You have to get out there and do it, because no one else will do it for you!
To learn more, visit BlackGirlSunscreen.com and follow with the @BlackGirlSunscreen handle on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
*Also, check out our Instagram Giveaway Collaboration starting tomorrow, 10/5!