FOR HER

Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Divine Blush $38

Pat McGrath is not afraid to push beauty boundaries. This is unmistakable in her popular Mothership Eyeshadow Palettes, which are everything. McGrath’s Skin Fetish blush has an ultra-silky finish and comes in a range of flattering shades that compliment any skin tone.

Black Girl Sunscreen $15.99

This formula boasts no eye irritation and no acne breakouts. It layers well with my other skincare and dries completely sheer. It leaves your skin noticeably moisturized and never oily. It’s the perfect stocking stuffer.

Honey Pot Bath Bombs $14

Hopefully, you’ve already tapped into all of Honey Pot’s other feminine products (which are loudly loved by rapper Saweetie). These bath bombs smell so good and will elevate any bath routine with cocoa butter and honey. It’s a spa day at home.

Brown Girl Jane Discovery Set $30

Brown Girl Jane celebrates global culture through fine fragrances that uplift beauty and well-being. The perfect gift to explore the collection and find your favorite combination. The packaging is beautiful and they were named as Refinery 29’s Beauty Innovator of the Year.

Mary Louise Skincare

Each product is a tribute to the wisdom of ancestors, offering a blend of heritage-inspired ingredients and modern skincare innovation. Yes, please!

FOR HIM

Savoir Faire’s Soul Café Fragrance $135

When he hugs you and you get wrapped up in this warm scent, you’ll be so happy that you gave him this. With notes of tobacco, bergamot, blood orange, black pepper, patchouli, private musk blend, amber wood, oud, lavender, Arabic coffee, and firewood, he will smell delicious from beginning to end.

Bevel Pro All-In-One Clipper and Trimmer $279.99

All the men in my life have a beard, and it’s a must that they keep it looking solid. But they don’t have the tools specifically designed for Black facial hair. This holiday season, give him the tools he needs for his facial hair to look its absolute best. Bevel was one of the first brands ever designed specifically with Black hair in mind and they are still at the top of the game.

Bordeaux Watch by SPGBK Watches $79.99

The most valuable thing a man has is his time. Thank him for spending his time well with a new watch. This is actually a unisex watch. The Black-owned North Carolina-based brand has a wide array of colors, with casual and formal options that match anyone’s style.

Navigator Duffle by Leather Made Co. $520

If you’re already talking 2024 travel plans with your better half, nothing inspires that desire to travel like brand-new travel gear. This holiday season, give him the travel bug with Made Leather Co.’s Navigator Duffle bag, currently available in black, cognac, and natural.

Tier Hoodie/Sweatpants $250

Another unisex item that is cozy yet upscale. Tier has structured hoodies and sweatpants that are 100 percent terry-cotton and come in a variety of colors. These comfortable hoodies and sweatpants come in a handful of colors.

FOR THE KIDS

Big by Vashti Harrison $14

Big comes from the illustrator of Sulwe, Hair Love, and Little Leaders and follows the journey of a young girl wrestling with her size in a world that doesn’t fully accept her as she is.

Naturalistas Fashion Dolls $10.99

My nieces love Barbie dolls, yet sometimes it can be frustrating shopping for the perfect doll that they can see themselves in. The Naturalistas Fashion Dolls is a line of toys created by Black female entrepreneur, DeeDee Wright-Ward. These dolls are meant to encourage kids to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their coils, curls, and naturally textured hair.

Upbounders Fun Outside Floor Puzzle $8.99

The best puzzles give kids the opportunity to challenge their minds. The Little Likes Kids Fun Outside Floor Puzzle is something the whole family can enjoy together. This 48-piece floor puzzle is easy enough for kids 3 years old and up to put together on their own as they sharpen their memory and cognitive skills.

Ready Set Go! Bundle $57.95

These tiny books pack a big punch by tackling heavy topics in a kid-friendly way. Designed to make talking about everything from sharing to bravery more engaging for young minds, this bundle will take their little library to another level.

Hopps Skateboards $69.95

Founded by the professional skateboarder Jahmal Williams, this high-quality deck will make the rider in your life feel like the next big thing at the skate park. Made of 100% Canadian Maple, this skate deck is made to last.

The post The Black-Owned Holiday Gift Guide appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

The holidays are the perfect time to upgrade your beauty products, and Black Girl Nerds has got your back. Here are five of our favorite makeup and hair companies owned by Black women.

Mented Cosmetics

Mented Cosmetics are, in a word, fantastic. My favorite item, the foundation stick, has a lovely light consistency, offers full coverage, and is vegan and cruelty-free. Mented Cosmetics’ website and app have a 60-second quiz for the foundation match that is spot on. I love the bronzer, which, when applied with a large brush, gives a lovely golden finish that makes the natural highlights of your skin just glow. The lipstick has a moisturizing quality that feels amazing and makes the lips look simply luscious. The eye shadow palettes have colors that work for everything from work to going out clubbing. This makeup line is high quality and affordable.

Mented also has lovely lovely individual blush, eyeliner, and mascara that all are light and enhance the features naturally. And best of all, Mented Cosmetics products wash off cleanly without residue. If you’re ordering online from Mentedcosmetics.com, there are free returns if you order anything that doesn’t work out. 

Mented Cosmetics was founded in 2017 by K.J. Miller and Amanda Johnson. Miller and Johnson met at Harvard Business School, clicked, and decided if they ever came up with a great retail idea, they’d work on it together. Miller and Johnson talked about how the beauty industry left out Black women, which inspired them to create Mented Cosmetics to provide a makeup line with products for all skin shades and tones. I’m happy and grateful they did because Mented Cosmetics is now my favorite makeup brand. 

Uncle Funky’s Daughter

Known by Black people with natural hair in the Houston area for years, Uncle Funky’s Daughter was created in 2009 by Tonya Goff. 

According to an interview on NaturallyCurly.com, Uncle Funky’s Daughter was acquired in 2014 by Renee Rhoten Morris. Interesting story, she had been thinking of a career change, stopped by Uncle Funky’s Daughter’s retail store to buy some butter to twist her hair, and ended up chatting to one of the co-owners, Tonya Goff’s husband. The couple was divorcing and thinking of just closing the business, but Rhoten Morris bought the brand. She brought back the original recipes of some of the brand’s most popular products, like the Original Curly Magic Curl Stimulator, and added additional products to the line. 

I discovered Uncle Funky’s Daughter when I ran out of hair products in Colorado. My hair was super dry, and when I went to a Walgreens in Denver, there was one travel size Ultimate Curly Girls Kit, which had travel sizes of Midnight Train leave-in conditioner, Curly Magic Curl stimulator, Thirsty Curls Leave in Curl revitalizer, Supercurl Miracle Moisture creme, and extra butter Brilliant shine creme. It was the only travel size of Black hair products in the drugstore, so I bought it. I was not disappointed. Every single product smells divine, and my parched hair just drank the conditioners and butters in and felt satisfied, leaving my hair feeling soft and supple.

You can find Uncle Funky’s Daughter on Amazon and in various drug stores nationally, but I love buying online directly from Unclefunkysdaughter.com. Prices are a little bit lower on the website; you can get special discounts and several travel-sized gift packs of various products from each line. Uncle Funky’s Daughter has products that work for all hair textures.

BLK/OPL & Fashion Fair

Black Opal cosmetics has been bought by Desiree Rogers and Cheryl Mayberry McKissack and has been rebranded BLK/OPL. Rogers and McKissack are co-owners of the iconic brand. 

First, let’s talk about BLK/OPL. I love that after 25 years of non-Black ownership, Black Opal was acquired by two Black female CEOs. The rebrand is fire. Not only does BLK/OPL have a full makeup line that is cruelty-free and dermatologist-approved, and it also has a skincare line. The blemish control cleansing bar, pore-refining toners, gels, and even skin-plumping products are all available for under $15. BLK/OPL’s makeup line is affordable and has a diverse palette of colors that work for the spectrum of skin types. This line is perfect for anyone who wants quality makeup and skincare for an affordable price. 

Rogers and Mayberry McKissack are brilliant co-owners with decades of combined experience in the Black beauty industry. When they bought Fashion Fair, they were compelled to bring together a team to meet the needs of consumers in the 21st century. Fashion Fair is now completely vegan and cruelty-free. Fashion Fair’s price point is slightly higher than BLK/OPL, and all of the iconic colors our mothers and grandmothers wore are back. Fashion Fair makeup has been upgraded and feels majestic, even better than the original brand, and worth the price if your budget allows it.

Nourish & Shine and Curls to Go

Nourish & Shine is the haircare line formerly known as Jane Carter Solution. This brand is worth looking for. No drying parabens and sulfate- and cruelty-free, Nourish & Shine is a natural hair and skincare line that will make your tresses look and feel amazing. 

The Curls to Go line works well with tightly coiled curls. Just a tiny amount will moisturize your entire scalp. Favorite products include Restorative butter, which smells like hair heaven, and the super-rich curl cocktail styling cream. A little bit goes a long way with these products, leaving your hair feeling silky, light, and nourished. 

This holiday season treat yourself to the gift of beauty while supporting these fab five Black female owned businesses.

The post 5 Fave Makeup and Hair Companies Owned by Black Women appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Whether it’s for someone else or yourself, a little goes a long way when it comes to these products. Best of all, these businesses belong to talented and heartful businesses that are working hard to provide quality products for everyone, with a special emphasis on Black women.

From skincare to haircare, if everyone is going to be home this season, they might as well be feeling radiant with some self-pampering that won’t break the bank. These brands are not only tested and true, they’re also sold for a variety of prices for any budget.

It’s true, most of the spas are closed now, but it’s also true that people can now transform their home into a luxurious pamper session.

We’re going to provide you with some of the top must-try businesses in no particular order, and showcase which items we recommend the most. Here is our ultimate skin and hair care gift guide for and by Black women.

Skincare

Naturals by Naj

This is one Etsy store that has been taking the skincare game to the next level. Ceo and founder, Najja Haynes provides her customers with luxurious skin and hair products for both men and women. 

Her products are specially formulated for those with sensitive and eczema-prone skin. Najja has a variety of body butters, shea butters, body oils, sugar scrubs and more. 

“When I first experimented with creating body butter, the first thing I realized is how a little bit of product goes a long way and that the product lasts much longer throughout the day compared to name brand products,” Haynes explained in a recent interview with BGN.

Arguably, some of her best products are her Shimmering Body Oils and Body Butters that are undeniably crafted with melanated skin in mind. The oils are available in the shades “Bronzed Babe,” “Sweet as Honey” and “Sunkissed.” 

Each of her skin products are also available in an assortment of fragrances, including vanilla, mango, Enchanted (which is like RIRI), Bad Gal (like Rihanna’s scent), cocoa glow, unscented, and more. 

Beija-Flor Naturals

Next up is the lovely BeijaFlorNaturals, a skin and hair care business owned by the amazing Stevonne Ratliff. During an interview with Ratliff, BGN learned about the history of her business. 

“I started BeijaFlorNaturals back in 2010. So, at the time there weren’t very many green, natural beauty brands, period, but especially those that cater to women of color. I had a lot of skin issues, so I had discoloration and really dry skin. It was just so hard to find products that did not contain petroleum because petroleum is a common ingredient used in skin care,” Ratliff explained.

She understands the struggle to access skin products that are high quality and affordable, especially for those with skin conditions and easily irritated skin types. While living in Brazil, Ratliff began crafting her own skin products to help her skin, as she discovered there were many botanical ingredients available there. 

“I wanted to focus on having the best quality ingredients and ingredients that actually work,” she said. “So, they were tested over a number of years. I handcrafted them. I didn’t go to some random lab. I wanted to know a lot about my own products. So every product that I have, I made myself, I touched myself.”

Ratcliff showcases her dedication to providing natural products for all women, but especially Black women. When it comes to hair and skin, there are unique struggles that Black women often encounter, like hyperpigmentation and discoloration.

One of the most beloved BeijaFlorNaurals products is the Amazon Antioxidant Treatment, which, according to Ratcliff, is packed with “a lot of vitamin C, and vitamin C is really good for evening your skin tone.” 

This product is a powerhouse for skin discoloration repair made from a Brazilian Butter blend that diminishes cell destruction and provides anti-aging, treats acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Aja Naturals

There’s no forgetting the fabulosity that is Aja Naturals created by Aja (pronounced Asia). After having a scare at the age of 17 when she discovered lumps on her breasts (luckily just cysts), Aja had a life-changing realization.

Her surgeon was a smart and talented Black woman who helped Aja discover that her lumps were partially caused by some of the skin products she was using. It was then that Aja decided that it was unacceptable for her or any other person to have products containing harsh chemicals and harmful ingredients hurt their bodies.

That event in her life was a “know better, do better” moment for Aja, and she has been leading the way with her business. She started with natural products for herself, friends, and family. However, she decided to expand her successful products to the world.

Her Creamy Cocoa Sugar Scrub is not only incredibly cute with amazing hints of chocolate and vanilla, but also part of her entire Chocolate line of products that are all handmade with love.

Hair Care

Melanin Hair Care

Those of you that aren’t currently nerding out over natural hair YouTuber Whitney White’s (AKA Naptural85) hair product line that just hit the shelves at Ulta Beauty, you’re late to the party.

Melanin Hair Care features products that White has shared with viewers on her channel for years. Known as the number one DIY handmade natural hair guru on YouTube, White has always been about accessibility when it comes to natural hair care.

She decided to take a step beyond her tutorials to launch her product line, and we’re glad she did. 

One thing her products have been famous is for how many rich oils and butters she packs into every batch. Natural ingredients include to tea tree oil, avocado oil, sweet almond oil, Vitamin C oil, olive oil, castor oil, argan oil, shea butter, cocoa seed oil, and more.

Her line includes all of the necessities: oil, shampoo, conditioner, and a styling cream that are perfect for both new and seasoned naturals. 

CurlyCoilyTresses

When it comes to healthy curls, CurlCoilyTresses is another business that should definitely be highlighted on the map. 

Business owner Angela is known for her impressive data-driven findings that determined most products people use have high allergens or irritating fragrances that cause inflammation and irritation.

She’s determined to create products that improve hair health for both transitioning and natural hair, especially when it comes to moisture, healthy growth and those with sensitive scalps and skin. 

We’re doting on CurlCoilyTresses’ Dry to Fly Holiday Collection, which is currently on sale for fifty dollars. It includes hypoallergenic and fragrance-free intensive hair moisturizers. They’re all packed with nourishing oils to make the hair soft and strengthened.

More Great Businesses

BLK + GRN

Happy Girl

NUELE

Clean Beauty for Black Girls

Radiant By Nature

The post BGN’s Ultimate Skin and Hair Care Gift Guide For and By Black Women appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

In this case, nostalgia kicked in for many users of Threads after they saw this post:

Before Sephora wish lists and TikTok “perfume hauls,” there was a simpler time: the era of bamboo earrings, cassette mixtapes, and spritzing yourself silly with the fragrance that made you feel instantly cooler. For teens of the 80s and 90s, perfumes weren’t just scents, they were social currency. The right bottle on your dresser (or stuffed in your backpack) said as much about you as your cassette collection or which boy band poster you had taped to your wall. Seriously, what fragrance you wore or kept on your dresser was “our creator economy” back in the day.

What made these perfumes iconic wasn’t just their smell, it was the moment they created. A bottle of Electric Youth meant you had pop star ambitions. I can still hear Debbie Gibson’s “Electric Youth” song pulsating through my ears as I’m typing this article. That’s how much of an impact her song and her fragrance had on me.

And through the late 90s into the 2000s, a stash of Bath & Body Works sprays meant your weekend was spent at the mall food court. Cucumber Melon anyone? These scents were bookmarks in our teen diaries, each spritz tied to crushes, concerts, and countless friendship bracelets.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves here. The following list are scents from the 80s and 90s respectively that will help you transport back to sleepovers, mixtapes, and feeling that life was just beginning to bloom.

Love’s Baby Soft – Powdery, pink, and packaged with that unforgettable “innocence meets sass” vibe. It whispered “first crush” and “after-school mall hangout.”

Electric Youth by Debbie Gibson – Neon pink, bubblegum in a bottle, with a literal lightning bolt in the design. If you wore this, you probably practiced Debbie’s dance moves in your bedroom.

Ex’cla.ma’tion! – A punctuation mark turned perfume. Sweet florals with a spicy kick. Owning this bottle was like saying, “I’m here, world!” but with Aqua Net hair.

Malibu Musk – Fruity, beachy, and cheap enough to drench yourself in. The closest thing to a West Coast summer vacation if you were landlocked in the Midwest.

Tommy Girl – The perfume equivalent of a varsity jacket. Sporty, fresh, and oh-so All-American.

Sunflowers by Elizabeth Arden – A happy-go-lucky spritz that smelled like sunshine in a bottle. Basically bottled optimism.

Bath & Body Works Body Sprays – Cucumber Melon. Plumeria. Country Apple. These weren’t perfumes so much as our daily cleansing products. Entire friend groups would pick “signature scents” before math class.

Whether you were a Baby Soft devotee spritzing before homeroom in the 80s or a Cucumber Melon queen ruling the 90s mall scene these our core memories are unlocked remembering these scents. They were tiny bottled time capsules of first dances, locker notes, and carefree summers. And while our fragrance tastes may have matured, there’s nothing quite like that first whiff of an old teen favorite to remind us of who we were, who we wanted to be, and just how sweet growing up really smelled. Or if you’re not a fan of these scents…kinda stunk?

Is there a favorite scent missing from the list? Let us know!

The post Teen Perfumes That Ruled the 80s and 90s appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Another hot topic in the beauty community is when Black owned businesses start off small, grow to large numbers, then get bought out by a bigger company. We are all for getting the bag, but often times, some of these companies try to cut corners and change the formula, causing results that are not what we were initially used to, nor the best for our skin and hair. This pattern can be tied to larger discussions about empowerment and sustainability within the Black Feminism Movement, which emphasizes the importance of supporting businesses that prioritize the needs and well-being of their community. With that being said, if you are looking to shop Black owned beauty, here are four brands that are worth your hard-earned coins!

Pattern Beauty

Owned by Tracee Ellis Ross, Pattern Beauty specializes in curly, coily, and tight-textured hair, which is often left out from many major brands. The company has many promises, with their site stating, “We hope to expand how we communicate, care for & celebrate our hair. We want to reimagine the language we use about our beloved curls & community. Our texture is natural. It is us & it’s beautiful.” From hair products to styling tools and brushes, the expansive line has something for all the curly-headed girls and even offers sets that specifically cater to your curl type. The brand also gives back to the community, with 1% of each of their sales going to the nonprofit of your choice. In addition to being found online, Pattern Beauty is also offered in stores and secured a deal to be offered in ULTA stores as well!

Fenty Beauty

There is no list highlighting Black brands without Fenty stepping into the conversation. Rihanna took the beauty world by storm when she launched Fenty Beauty in 2017. Her wide selection of shades was the talk of the town as she shined light on the lack of the inclusion at other brands. (It wouldn’t be the first time the queen did that; she also shaded Victoria’s Secret for not including plus-sized models in their fashion shows.)

Not only do we buy the product because of the pop star’s association, the quality of what she offers is great and not too high for our pockets. She eventually expanded into skin care and hair products which have built a name for themselves as well. One thing Fenty Beauty does well at is utilizing Riri to do tutorials of the products, thus catching our attention and piquing our interest about how it would look on us. The company recently inked a deal to be sold in Target stores as part of the Ulta section in select locations, which is a big deal because the girlies love Target and a good one-stop shop.

Juvia’s Place

If you’ve looked high and low for an affordable make-up brand that was actually good, look no further than Juvia’s Place. From heavily pigmented blushes to some of the deepest shades in the market, the brand has been extremely popular for darker skin tones. Often times, some brands that offer deeper shades aren’t available in store to try on so you just cross your fingers and hope for the best. Juvia’s Place is available at Ulta so you can get your correct match within minutes. Besides being friendly to our bank accounts, the company is deeply rooted in our culture, with their story stating they were “created to celebrate the rebels, rulers, and queens of the African kingdoms who honored beauty through their innovative and soulful techniques that we still use today.” Chichi Eburu founded Juvia’s Place after struggling to find make-up for her skin tone and wanted to create products that were able to enhance the richness of her skin tone.

Pat McGrath Labs

If you’re a girlie that has deep pockets but wants to support Black business, Pat McGrath is the line for you. Comprised of many products from rich lipsticks to shadows that shimmer like no other, the brand has long been a favorite of many, with celebs mentioning the brand as part of their make-up kits. Pat McGrath herself has been in business as a make-up artist for over 25 years and her products have been utilized in many fashion shows.

From collabs with Prada, Versace, Valentino, and many more, our good sis has been working hard to open doors for more Black owned beauty brands to be featured in high end fashion conversations all across the world. Many might recall when her first product, GOLD 001, launched in 2015 and sold out instantly on her social media platforms. Since then, she has been a force to be reckoned with and a staple in conversations due to her high quality products and stunning packaging.

The post 4 Black Beauty Brands You Should Try appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

As women, we all grapple with these pressures. It’s crucial to challenge and redefine beauty in more inclusive and diverse terms, celebrating the unique qualities that make each person beautiful in their own right.

Certain skin conditions, like vitiligo, can be particularly challenging because they often stem from complex interactions of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. Unlike temporary skin issues, this condition is chronic and can be influenced by a variety of elements, including hormonal changes, stress levels, and even diet. As a result, treatment options may be limited and may focus more on managing symptoms rather than providing a complete cure.

Vitiligo is more than just a skin condition; it’s a profound experience that touches on identity, self-acceptance, and societal perceptions about what beauty looks like. Vitiligo is characterized by the loss of pigmentation, leading to distinct white patches on the skin. This occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color), are destroyed or stop functioning. Although vitiligo can affect anyone regardless of race or ethnicity, its effects can be particularly pronounced in people with darker skin tones.

The exact cause of vitiligo remains a mystery, although several factors are believed to contribute to its development. Many researchers believe that vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys melanocytes. This is supported by the observation that individuals with vitiligo often have other autoimmune diseases. There is evidence to suggest a genetic predisposition to vitiligo, although family history can play a significant role, with individuals who have relatives affected by the condition having it in higher rates.

Certain environmental factors, such as sunburn, skin trauma, or exposure to certain chemicals, can trigger or exacerbate the condition. Psychological stress is also considered a potential trigger. Some individuals report that their vitiligo developed or worsened after experiencing significant stress. While these factors are associated with the onset of vitiligo, the precise interchange between them is still unknown.

Vitiligo affects approximately two percent of the global population, making it relatively uncommon. However, the prevalence can vary significantly among different ethnic groups. In individuals of African descent, vitiligo is notably more visible due to the contrast between the lighter patches and darker skin. In Black women, vitiligo often manifests during the late teens or early adulthood, although it can appear at any age.

For Black women, the impact of vitiligo can be profound. Skin color holds such a significant cultural importance, and deviations from the norm can lead to feelings of alienation or inadequacy. The societal emphasis on beauty and skin tone can exacerbate the emotional toll of vitiligo.

Research indicates that women with vitiligo may experience higher levels of anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. This can be particularly challenging in communities where skin color is closely tied to identity and self-worth.

Many Black women we know and love have found ways to embrace their condition, and ultimately, has shifted perceptions about what beauty looks like. Winnie Harlow, model and spokesperson, may be the most well-known figure with vitiligo. She has spoken candidly about her experiences, emphasizing the importance of self-love and confidence. I love the fact that she changes the narrative and lets everyone know she is not “suffering” from vitiligo. Harlow’s visibility has not only challenged beauty standards but has also inspired many young women with similar skin conditions to embrace their uniqueness.

Beauty influencer Jasmine Jackson has also opened up about her experiences with vitiligo. By sharing her story, Jackson helps to bring visibility to the condition and to encourage acceptance among her followers. “The experience itself was eye-opening because it taught me self-love, something I always struggled with as a little girl. I was diagnosed as an adult, so it definitely took some getting used to.”

While vitiligo can pose significant challenges, particularly for Black women, there is a growing movement towards acceptance and celebration of diversity in beauty. Support groups, both online and offline, are providing platforms for individuals to share their experiences and strategies for coping with the emotional aspects of the condition.

Advancements in skincare and cosmetic products also offer options for those looking to manage their appearance. Many individuals with vitiligo choose to embrace their skin as it is, using it as an opportunity to redefine beauty standards on their own terms.

Vitiligo is a complex skin condition with varied causes and impacts. Its prevalence among different demographics highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding, particularly in communities where skin color plays such a crucial role in identity. Vitiligo doesn’t have to be this doom-and-gloom narrative, especially with Black women. Society can move towards a more inclusive definition of beauty, one that recognizes and honors diversity in all its forms. Everyone deserves to feel empowered to embrace their true selves.

The post Vitiligo: What Is It, What Causes It, and How Common Is It? appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Those with darker complexions may have heard the rumor that you don’t need sunscreen. For years, I’d thinly apply sunscreen, convinced my melanin would protect me. I had the evidence to prove it. I’ve spent hours under the sun without a noticeable sunburn, so why would I need to apply sunscreen?

Skin cancer is the reason. Everyone, no matter how dark their complexion is, should apply sunscreen. Additionally, sunscreen can help prevent other sun damage such as signs of aging and hyperpigmentation.

Let’s discuss why sunscreen is the silent hero that few are talking about.

Why sunblock is necessary for everyone, no matter your skin tone

You may have heard of UVA and UVB rays, but if you’ve never had a sunburn or noticed any noticeable sun damage, you may not know how these rays affect your skin.

According to an article on Neutrogena.com, UVA stands for ultraviolet radiation A, which has a long wavelength, while UVB is ultraviolet radiation B, which has a shorter wavelength. 

UVA rays cause wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven skin tone and can penetrate window glass. UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and pass through the surface of your skin, causing sunburn. While sunburn is more common in people with fair skin, it doesn’t mean that people with darker skin are immune. In reality, sunburn can appear as darkened and heated skin on Black people. 

Hannah Kopelman, DO, a dermatologist at Kopelman Hair Restoration in New York City, was quoted in Everydayhealth.com as saying, “Sunburns in darker skin can lead to pain, peeling, and long-term damage.”

UV rays penetrate your skin like unwanted guests, damaging your skin cells and DNA. If you remember anything from your high school biology class, your DNA is the instruction manual for how your body is created. Without it, your body doesn’t know how to create new cells and can create abnormal and mutated cells. 

Three things can occur when UV rays damage your skin cells. Those cells will die off, and maybe not causing a lot of problems. Your body will repair the damaged cells because bodies are good at that. Or those damaged cells could begin to mutate and start making trouble for you. 

Now, you’re not wrong if you think your melanin is the superhero in this skin story and will protect you. Melanin does provide some sun protection, but it is more like a mall cop than Superman. 

Melanin absorbs UV light before it can damage the skin. However, research shows that what is happening beneath the surface is counterproductive.

In an article in Healthline.com, Dr. Doug E. Brash, a skin cancer researcher at the Yale School of Medicine, stated that melanin provides both protection and damage. 

Researchers explain that UV radiation creates reactive oxygen and nitrogen, which energize an electron in melanin. This energy can damage DNA, potentially leading to mutations that cause cancer.

The three most common types of skin cancer among people of color

People of darker skin tones can get skin cancer. What can make the disease worse is that the appearance of skin cancer isn’t as noticeable, which means cancer could be hanging out under your skin without you knowing right away.

Here are the three most common skin cancers. Don’t worry about pronouncing them correctly; just focus on their effects.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

This is the most common among darker skin and is caused by sun exposure and human papillomavirus (HPV). The squamous cells often appear in places not typically exposed to the sun, such as the genitals. Common symptoms include:

• A painful or tender bump
• A growing warty lesion in the genital area
• A sore that fails to heal
• Thick scaly patches that crust or bleed

Basal Cell Carcinoma

This type of cancer is a direct result of sun exposure. The signs include a non-painful, translucent bump that bleeds easily and pigment flecks.

Melanoma

This is the cancer that killed Bob Marley. It first appeared under the nail of his big toe. 

Melanoma is often overlooked, like that spider slowly building a passive web in the corner of your room. Signs of this cancer usually show up as a dark spot in less sun-exposed places, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and lips, or as a dark line larger than 3mm under the nails. The spot often grows and changes into an irregular shape. 

The American Cancer Society estimates that the five-year survival rate for melanoma is 70% for Black patients, compared to 94% for white patients. Additionally, Black patients are more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma at a later stage than white patients.

Melanoma is a deadly cancer because it can rapidly spread to your other organs.

Choosing the best sunblock to protect your skin

Even though I’ve laid out all the reasons why you should wear sunscreen, you’ll probably think, “But what about the white cast?” I get it. You didn’t work out for four months to show off your sexy summer body in a new bikini and have a white pasty face covered in sunscreen. 

Do not worry; there is a solution: tinted mineral sunscreen.

Black dermatologist Rose Ingleton, MD, shares in one of her Instagram videos that if you can’t find a tinted sunscreen that matches your skin tone, you can apply your favorite SPF and layer your foundation on top. 

Additionally, you can buy sunscreen from these Black-owned sunscreen companies to ensure you’re not left looking like a clown.

• Black Girl Sunscreen
• Unsun
• Kinlò

Here are some additional things to look out for in your sunscreen.

• SPF 30 or higher
• Apply 15 to 20 minutes before going out in the sun and reapply every two hours.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure during the peak hours of the day, when the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. 
• Use a waterproof or water-resistant sunscreen if you plan on swimming. 
• Utilize extra protection, such as wearing a hat and sunglasses. 

The melanin in our skin is beautiful. It makes our skin appear in many unique shades, such as chestnut, mahogany, coffee, ebony, chocolate, and more. However, relying on melanin alone to protect your skin isn’t enough. Even the ancient Egyptians used rice bran, jasmine, and lupine as sun protection.

Sure, if you run out of the house one day and forget to put on sunscreen, you’ll probably be okay. However, if you know you will be out in the sun for hours on end, applying protection is essential. 

If you love your skin, it’s important to protect it. Take care of yourself by applying sunscreen, and show off your beautiful brown skin.

The post How Necessary Is Sunblock for People With Dark Skin? Very! appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

In February, the Queen Bey’s new hair care line Cécred was launched to the world. The lineup consists of eight cruelty-free products, rooted in the belief that hair is sacred and designed with all hair types and textures in mind. With shampoos to a hair treatment mask, prices range from $30 to $52. The brand also has a cosmetic bag, a ritual shaking vessel, and product kits and bundles. The packaging for Cécred is like sculptures, beautiful enough to display on your vanity.

I saw a lot of people on social media hesitant to support the new line, as they claim Beyoncé has never shown us her real hair. Well, to shut us all down, Bey calmly strolled onto these Internet streets, and made an Instagram video, with voiceover, showing her real hair — parting it from root to tip and giving us all scalp.

In the video, she says “The stigma and misconception is that people that wear wigs don’t have long and healthy hair. And that’s some bullsh*t.” In other words, she’s not baldheaded; stay out of her business and have a nice day.

Beyoncé rarely speaks to us directly or shares much of her private life. Rightfully so, as she is one of the most bonafide superstars in the world and wants to maintain her privacy. At the end of the day, she really owes us nothing. But the fact that she gave us a little something speaks volumes.

We can go back throughout Beyoncé’s career and look at old pictures of her hairstyles, and know what album it was. The bump in the front: I Am…Sasha Fierce. Cornrows down her back: Lemonade. Now that we’re in the Cowboy Carter era, she’s giving us big, blonde, Dolly Parton-like wigs.

We love to see content from Bey and then we move on with our day being better for it. Yet this time, the internet just wouldn’t rest. People decided to get on this internet and talk about how Beyoncé is lying; she’s scamming; she’s hiding her actual hair.  

I am a Beyoncé fan and have been for a very long time, but this is not about defending her. It’s really about allowing Black women to create content without accusations that they are not being truthful — regardless of what it is.

Beyoncé has been in this game for longer than some of her fans have been alive. She has proven time and time again that she’s “that girl” and then some. Do we really think that she would be lying about her hair for this long? She shouldn’t have had to part her hair 20 different ways to prove to us that her hair is real, only for people to continue to believe she’s doing something weird. But here we are.

The truth is there are other Black women celebrities who have hair care lines such as Tracee Ellis Ross, Kelis, Taraji P. Henson, and Tabitha Brown. They haven’t received similar backlash because they are more visible and accessible to us. They make a concerted effort to do social media content, in-store events to meet and greet, and more importantly, we see them use their products regularly. We feel like we know them. We see it with our own eyes, and we believe them.

As much as we love Bey, she’s not able to do those things because of her massive popularity. So there is always an issue of trust when it comes to her selling products outside of music. Like with Ivy Park, Bey didn’t do the greatest job of convincing the masses that she actually wore the clothes in her every day life. We knew when the line dropped, and we saw her wear the clothes in ads. But we didn’t see her wearing them anywhere else. Unfortunately, actual sales didn’t meet Adidas’ projections, so the two parted ways in 2023.

But like it or not, Beyoncé lacks a strong personal brand compared to that of Rhianna with Fenty. We actually believe Rhianna uses her products; we see her wearing her makeup; we see her wearing lingerie from Savage X Fenty. It’s the same thing with Tabitha Brown. She can sell her seasonings, because we constantly see her cooking and using them. The food looks amazing and we actually see her eat it. These things build trust and they matter to us, if we’re going to spend our coins.

Two things can be true at the same time. First, Beyoncé has the unmitigated right to create what she wants and sell it to us how she wants to. Secondly, questioning her credibility is valid. I believe the Instagram video was mainly about marketing Cécred but it also accomplished shutting the skeptics down — at least most of them.

What we know for sure is that Beyoncé is going to keep creating, glowing, and growing, and we will continue to watch with joy.

The post Why Did Beyoncé Do an Ad for Hair Care? appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Over the decades, Black hair has become newsworthy and trendy for better or for worse.

A prime example is the case of Darryl George, who filed a lawsuit against his school district after receiving a suspension from his school because of his hair.

Let’s take a deeper look at why certain people and organizations believe that the way Black people wear their hair is deemed unacceptable in certain settings.

Student Suspended Over Hair Length

Since August 31, 2023, student Darryl George (18) has endured in-school suspension and attended an offsite disciplinary program because his hair didn’t conform to the Barbers Hill High School dress code. 

The Mont Belvieu, Texas, school has a strict dress and grooming code that says male students’ hair must be kept at a length that doesn’t go past the ear lobe. Yet when George attended school with his locs braided and wrapped on the top of his head, administrators at his school deemed it unacceptable. 

In a disciplinary notice, the school wrote that George’s hair is “out of compliance with the BH dress code when let down.” The notice also said that if George corrected the dress code violation, he could return to regular classes. 

In response, Darryl and his mother, Darresha George, filed a federal lawsuit in the Texas Southern District Court in September. They stated that the suspension violated the CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) Act, which bans race-based hair discrimination.

Unfortunately, a Texas judge recently ruled that the punishment did not violate the CROWN Act because the suspension was based on the length of George’s hair and wasn’t because of his race. 

In response, George Polle, the superintendent at BHISD, said in a statement to the press, “The CROWN Act was meant to allow braids, locs, or twists, which the district has always allowed. The law was never intended to allow unlimited student expression.”

While one side sees hair length as unrelated to race or culture, the other side sees it differently. The George family and supporters feel that being able to grow one’s hair to a long length is a cultural practice and shouldn’t be discriminated against. 

About the Crown Act

The CROWN Act, created by Dove and the CROWN coalition with State Senator Holly J. Mitchell of California, protects people of color from being discriminated against based on race-based hairstyles. It extends statutory protection to hair texture and protective styles such as locs, twists, knots, and braids in public schools and workplaces. 

This regulation came about after the CROWN study in 2019. The research surveyed women who worked in office settings. The results showed that Black women’s hair was more policed at work than other hairstyles. Additionally, 80% of Black women had to change their hairstyle to fit into their work environment.

Additionally, research done by Brooks Institute showed that Black students are more likely to be suspended for reasons such as long hair or dress code violations. These violations haven’t been found to lead to student misbehavior.

Currently, the CROWN Act has become law in 24 states. In March 2022, the act was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives; however, it did not pass the Senate. 

Why Hair Shouldn’t Interfere with a Student’s Education

In 2023, there were over 80 school shootings in the United States. This outrageously high number makes me wonder why a student’s hairstyle is a school issue. Last time I checked, locs can’t tragically take the lives of innocent students. 

After hearing the news of Darryl George and watching his interview, his words stuck with me. In the interview, George says, “There’s been a lot of emotions on me — anger, sadness.”

He further states, “It feels very lonely when you’re the only one stuck in a room for a whole semester, a whole year.”

His words made me question how students internalize their experiences in a world that punishes them for trying to respect both their cultural practices and school policy. Isn’t school a place where students receive recognition for their intelligence, physical abilities, and collaboration with others? How do disciplinary actions because of dress code violations affect students’ self-esteem and sense of self? How can we replace judgment with acceptance?

The answers to these questions may come from taking a more progressive approach, such as cultural awareness training among school educators. Also, the adaptations of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) have led to less harmful student behavior and acceptable and cohesive behavior for children K–12.

As I reflect on the situation, I remember my high school experiences. I remember always being concerned about my hair. I was often worried about what my peers would think of me in certain hairstyles. However, my mom was more concerned about how the adults would perceive me. She ensured my hair was pressed, straightened, braided, or put in some “acceptable” hairstyle so that I wouldn’t be mistreated or judged by adults or staff members. 

I empathize with any student who can’t go to school to learn because of how their hair naturally grows out of their head.

The post Is Hair Discrimination Becoming an Acceptable Form of Racism?  appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

By the time I was 12 years old, I had been on a begging spree to my mother about getting a hair relaxer. Back then, I didn’t see the beauty in my long, thick hair that took a whole Saturday morning for my mother to wash, detangle, and dry. All of my friends at school had relaxed hair, so I wanted that, too. Eventually, she gave in and my journey with the creamy crack began.

Black women spend close to $8 million a year on beauty and salon products and services, and, on average, visit a salon more than twice a month. In addition, Black women spend twice as much on skin care than women from other demographics. It’s a result of biased beauty standards and racist discrimination that forces Black women to try to measure up to society’s standards of what is appropriate and professional. These products often have a higher toxicity than those marketed to the general population.

You may be wondering: “It’s just beauty, what’s the big deal?” Well, makeup, skincare and hair care are powerful tools of expression for Black women. It’s not just looking good but can also help cope with difficult moments in life such as acne and other conditions.

We’ve all seen the commercials and social media ads for people who have developed certain cancers or conditions related to their use of chemical relaxers. By filing lawsuits, victims may be compensated, which could assist with their treatment and medical costs. To look good and feel good about ourselves comes with a heavy price.

The disturbing truth is that, in the United States, it’s legal for products that we use every day to contain chemicals linked to breast cancer, hormone disruption, birth defects, and other chronic health problems. Products that may contain chemicals of concern are not just hair relaxers but skin lighteners, dandruff shampoos, hair conditioners, hair dyes, nail polish, and fragrances — products we use on a daily basis. The industry has regulated itself for decades, and even defends the toxic ingredients they use.

Most mainstream magazines still cater to white readers. Cosmetic brands are making an effort in their marketing, but most skincare brands are not. By only featuring white women in their campaigns, they signal their assumption that their audience and consumer is white. At the majority of the large beauty companies, most of the key decision-makers are white, which dictates what ends up on advertising material. This is a weaponization of European beauty standards against Black women and why it is so important for us to have a seat at the table to make decisions.

The pressure to look put-together is often fueled by discrimination in the workplace. In 2020, researchers at Duke University found Black women with natural hairstyles are perceived to be less professional and less competent than women with straight hair or white women with curly hair. These perceptions are grounded in patriarchy and misogyny and reinforce the notion that this is the only standard.

In the late 1800s, Annie Malone understood that for Black women, appearance and grooming represent more than just their personal style. It can also indicate a woman’s class and social status. She realized that improving hair health can also have a positive effect on the lives of Black women. This motivation inspired Malone to develop products to help women adapt to a society that judges them based on how they meet the American standard of beauty, which excluded the natural appearance of most Black women. She experimented with chemistry and established a successful business after developing a line of products that were advertised to help improve scalp health and promote hair growth. Malone ultimately opened Poro College.

Around the same time, Sarah Breedlove struggled with hair issues of her own and experimented with solutions. She enrolled at Malone’s Poro College and later became an agent. Given Breedlove’s personal hair struggles and the training she received, she was inspired to begin making and selling her own products. She changed her name to Madam C.J. Walker and started developing her own line of hair products.

The two trailblazing Black women’s stories are often pitted against one another. Regardless, they both understood the relationship between Black women and their appearance, as well as the importance of safe, quality ingredients.

What we choose to put on our hair and skin is a very personal choice. I don’t want to be lectured about what I should and shouldn’t use, as well as the perceived risks. Having to make choices about how I look based on ingredients that could kill me is where I am at right now. I learned that the foundation and concealer that I’ve been using has retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A. Sounds good, right? But it has been linked to skin cancer. So, I stopped using both of those products.

Once all the information started to emerge about the harmful effects of relaxers and other products, many women have veered away from them. But as we know, just because a product may label itself as a natural alternative doesn’t mean it is without risk.

The beauty industry consistently says that product safety is a top priority, and they spit a lot of scientific research and development for everything they do. It just seems like smoke being blown because Black women are getting sick and dying from trying to be beautiful.

The truth is we are beautiful just the way we are, and there is no need for the industry to resort to harmful and dangerous products.

The post Why Beauty Is Killing Black Women appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.