Not to sound dramatic, but moisturizing for Black folks is a *big* deal—so important that we use the word “lotion” as a verb. See the above question and “Don’t forget to lotion before you leave this house!” and “Lotion that beautiful skin,” all things my mom would say when I was growing up. This idea of lotioning (yes, also a word) is a unique cultural nuance that still lives on: When I asked a few fellow Black women at Cosmo (they = Gen Z, me = millennial) whether my mom’s words rang true, their responses ranged from “hell yeah” to “1,000 percent.”
To further prove my point, I hit up Dana Johnson, the founder of one of my favorite skincare brands Beneath Your Mask (BYM), to see whether the practice of lotioning was something she grew up with—and if it inspired her amazing skin-hydrating products.
“Being ashy is like a sin in the Black community,” Johnson explained. “If my mother ever noticed I was ashy, she’d find ANYTHING to moisturize my skin, no matter where we were.”
It’s clear to see that our parents’ pleas were layered with meaning. They were impassioned reminders to cherish our brown skin—despite what the world might think of it—and to keep in mind that when we step out into that world, we are representing the Black community. Rocking a set of ashy elbows, knees, or ankles might exacerbate hurtful stereotypes that Black people are unkempt, unprofessional, and unattractive (all obviously lies, fallacies, and just plain BS).
While Johnson caters to customers of all backgrounds, she can’t deny that being a woman of color helps tell her brand’s story.
“Being a Black woman informs new products because when I formulate, it’s to solve a problem—a problem that not only reflects me being a Black woman but also a Black woman with lupus. It has always been important for me to be transparent about the who and why behind BYM.”
It’s that thoughtful storytelling that helps erase those baseless stereotypes around the Black community. And it’s amazing to know that lotioning is so revolutionary in this respect. It’s yet another weighty burden people of color must shoulder, one that I acknowledge but also choose to reclaim as meaningful self-care.
So when you catch me glistening out in these streets, slathered in my favorite lotions and potions, please know it’s both for my people and for me.
“Did You Lotion?”
Nopalera Original Moisturizing Botanical Bar
It might seem weird to moisturize with a bar, but I’m telling you it’s a great way to turn the simple task of moisturizing into a true sensorial beauty ritual. The cocoa-butter-based bar is laced with a combination of oils and a fresh citrus scent. And the solid bar and compact tin make it a dream travel companion.
Supergoop! Body Butter SPF 40
I don’t have to remind you that wearing SPF every day all year round is a thing, right? Then the fact that this rich cream has SPF 40 is a two-in-one wonder. It leaves my skin super-duper soft, and the sprinkling of eucalyptus, vanilla, and clove instantly calms my nerves.
Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Lotion
Vaseline (aka petroleum jelly) has always been a staple in my house. Can I get a witness? The brand just launched a new intensive lotion formula and I’m falling in love all over again. It’s still made with pure cocoa butter and it now moisturizes for a whopping 48 hours thanks to an innovative formulation of skin-hydrating lipids. Yes please and thank you!
Oyin Handmade No Ash at All Cocoa Butter Lotion
This super-hydrating cocoa butter moisturizer is hopped up with olive oil, aloe juice, and oat protein. I love the fact that it’s rich enough for the cold, dry months yet light enough to wear when the temps rise—and not make you feel greasy. Trust, it’s a magical balance that will keep you coming back for more.
Loewe Paula’s Ibiza Body Lotion
While I’m still saving up for a head-turning Loewe gown or the luxury brand’s viral balloon sandals, I’ll just have to treat myself to its ultra-creamy body lotion. And a little goes a long way. My skin feels instantly smooth and the earthy floral scent lingers throughout the day.
54 Thrones African Beauty Butter
I love that this bb is called a “beauty” butter rather than a body butter. And it holds up. I’m devoted to how the combination of shea butter, sweet almond oil, and other yummy humectants transforms my roughest skin moments to baby-soft bliss. Plus, it smells divine!
Beneath Your Mask Heal Whipped Skin Soufflé
I keep a tube of whipped perfection in my bag at all times. It’s the perfect remedy for my hands after washing them a million times per day. FYI, it comes in a larger size if you want more to go around—which I always do. The clean formulation is antibacterial and anti-aging, and it contains antioxidants to keep your skin’s barrier in tip-top shape.
Body by TPH Watch Me Whip Whipped Body Cream
I keep this tub of awesomeness right next to the shower. I slather it on right before I get out and towel off. The whipped vegan cream locks in all the moisture and gives me a goddess-like glow. There’s also a good helping of niacinamide in the formula to help even your skin tone.
Julee Wilson is Beauty Editor at Large at Cosmopolitan. Previously, Julee was Beauty Director at Cosmo and Global Beauty Director at Essence and has held various editorial positions at Huffington Post and Real Simple. She counts herself lucky AF that she gets to play with beauty products for a living and tell dope stories. And if you’re as obsessed with beauty as she is, make sure to follow her on Instagram for plenty of product recs, natural hair inspo, skincare testing, and Black girl magic shenanigans.
