Not just today, not just tomorrow, but every day
I know that we’re all reeling from the events of this past week and the week that came before. And that’s good, because reaction is what instigates change. It’s what pushes people to take to the streets to demand justice, to forgo their own comfort for the sake of someone else’s humanity, to recognize how they themselves have unconsciously been a part of the problem and inquire about how they can be a part of the solution.
As a super-niche beauty blog, I have limited latitude to be self-important about my impact on the world, at least as long as my main goal is to inform you on whether to choose Shiseido or eos. However, it’s important to recognize that we all play a part, and that we could all be doing more.
Something important, and so easy, that we could be doing is investing in Black-owned businesses and “pulling up” (in the words of Ms. Fenty) for Black economic progress.
To that end, please see a small list of Black beauty brands that I either already do, or have plans to, support. Where lip balm is in the product line, I have noted — and please expect reviews soon! (Please also note that there are many, many more brands worthy of your attention and money; more information can be found at the end of this post.)
KNC Beauty
Founder Kristen Noel Crawley professes that the founding ethos of her line is to achieve perfect, kissable lips (coincidentally, also one of my life goals!).
While she began with all-natural lip masks, she has since expanded her line into eye masks, balms and scrubs. Supa Balm in OG Rose is on its way to my mailbox; expect a review to be in yours soon after. (Subscribe to be notified!)
Beneath Your Mask
Founder Dana Jackson’s brand has one of those superhero origin stories, the ones that begin with an insurmountable hurdle that evolves into a life-affirming accomplishment, transforming an ordinary human into a paragon of strength along the way.
Her flagship product was a 2019 Allure Best of Beauty winner and her lip balm is such a fan-favorite that it is currently sold out! (Expected delivery: EOM. Sign up to be the first to see a review!)
Pat McGrath Labs
No intro is necessary for uber-influencer makeup artist to the stars (not to mention, beauty magazine staple), Pat McGrath. Her beauty prowess led her to become a self-made billionaire often referred to as the “Mother” of make-up.
Embarrassingly, I had no idea that her extensive product line included my favorite item in the world. Despite the hefty price tag, I am more than a little excited to finally buy into the cult status the brand inspires.
OUI The People
More a skincare brand than a cosmetics brand, OTP focuses on one thing and one thing only: achieving the perfect shave. Their commitment to this art is coupled with a sustainability focus; their products and packaging are all manufactured to be effectively recycled.
Given that saving the Earth is a major goal of mine (next to achieving kissable lips, above), I am thrilled to highlight and support a personal care brand so conscious of the waste the industry produces.
For more extensive coverage of brands that you can (and should) support, please see the following lists curated by Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Allure and Glamour.
The Perfect Balm 