Name a more challenging task than consistently applying per dermatologists’ and estheticians’ suggestions for those of us who hate the smell, sticky residue, and white cast many SPF formulas leave behind. Until I discovered Shiseido’s , sunscreen was low on my beauty routine totem pole. As a Black woman, despite countless beauty professionals who debunk the myth, I internalized the idea that melanated people don’t need sunscreen.

To add to the problem, the options on the market all seemed messy, inconvenient, and unsuitable for melanated skin. It wasn’t until a childhood friend’s wedding in Mexico City that sparked the search to find a product that fits into my lifestyle. Preparing for a combination destination wedding and mini vacation (with back-to-back daytime activities planned for all four days of the trip), meant finding a mess-free and that wouldn’t smudge makeup or leave a white cast was a must.

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