In 2016, Shontay Lundy identified a glaring omission in the skincare industry: the lack of sunscreen products formulated for people of color. Conventional sunscreens often left a white residue on darker skin tones, discouraging their use among individuals with melanin-rich skin. Motivated by this oversight, Lundy founded Black Girl Sunscreen (BGS), a brand dedicated to providing effective sun protection without compromising on inclusivity or aesthetics.
From Vision to Venture
Born in Fort Knox, Kentucky, and raised in upstate New York, Lundy pursued higher education with determination. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Cortland and later obtained an MBA in Management and Operations from St. Thomas University in Miami, Florida. Her academic background laid a strong foundation for her entrepreneurial journey.
Lundy’s inspiration for BGS stemmed from personal experience with sunscreens not designed with darker skin tones in mind. This propelled her to create a product that catered specifically to the needs of people of color. In 2016, she launched Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30, a moisturizing sunscreen that dries clear and is free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. The formulation includes natural ingredients such as jojoba, sunflower oil and cacao, ensuring both protection and nourishment for the skin.
Breaking Retail Barriers
Starting a new venture is never easy, and Lundy faced her share of challenges. She bootstrapped the business, investing $33,000 of her savings to develop and bring the product to market. Her perseverance paid off as BGS gained traction, resonating with consumers who had long been overlooked by the skincare industry. The brand’s success led to its products being stocked in major retailers, including Target, Ulta, CVS and Walmart. Additionally, BGS expanded its reach through direct-to-consumer sales and online platforms like Amazon.
Changing the Narrative
Beyond commercial success, Lundy’s mission with BGS has always been rooted in education and empowerment. She actively works to dispel myths surrounding sun protection for people of color, emphasizing that melanin-rich skin is still susceptible to sun damage and requires adequate protection. Through partnerships with institutions like George Washington University and Howard University, Lundy promotes awareness about the importance of sun safety within communities of color.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 17: Products on display at BGS Men Launch Party (Black Girl Sunscreen) on August 17, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Natasha Campos/Getty Images for Black Girl Sunscreen)
Recognition & Impact
Lundy’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2018, Popular Science recognized BGS as one of the 100 Greatest Innovations. She was also featured in Forbes’ Next 1000 list in 2021 and received the RevolutionHER Trailblazer Award in 2022. These accolades underscore her impact on both the beauty industry and the broader conversation about inclusivity in skincare.
Today, BGS continues to thrive, offering a range of products that cater to the unique needs of people of color. Lundy’s vision and determination have filled a market gap and sparked a broader movement toward inclusivity and representation in the skincare industry. For more information about BGS and its mission, visit blackgirlsunscreen.com.
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