OUR BRAND STORY
Who We Are
Our story begins with the need for a sunscreen brand that caters exclusively to people of color leaving no white cast.
Our Mission
Our mission is to educate consumers on safe skin practices and sun protection while providing a premium, yet affordable products made specifically for people of color.
Our Vision
Our vision is to redefine sun safety by empowering people of color with innovative, effective, and inclusive sun care solutions. We are committed to educating our community about the importance of sun protection, challenging misconceptions, and promoting skin health for all. By developing products that cater specifically to melanated skin, we aim to foster a culture of proactive skincare, ensuring that everyone feels confident and protected under the sun.
Our Values
These values guide us in our journey to create a safer, more inclusive world where everyone can enjoy the sun with confidence and protection.
Inclusivity and Representation
We believe in creating products that celebrate and cater to the unique needs of melanated skin, ensuring that every person of color feels seen, valued, and included in the conversation about sun care.
Education and Empowerment
We are dedicated to educating our community about the importance of sun protection and debunking myths surrounding sun care for people of color. We empower our community with knowledge while striving to promote healthier skincare habits.
Quality and Innovation
Our commitment to quality drives us to develop effective, safe, and innovative sun care products that blend seamlessly into melanated skin tones, without leaving a white residue!
Community and Collaboration
We cherish the power of community and aim to uplift and support through our products, partnerships, and initiatives. We believe in the strength of collective action and the impact of the Black dollar.
Integrity and Transparency
We prioritize ethical practices and transparency in everything we do. Our customers can trust that our products are formulated with their health and well-being in mind.
Advocacy and Change
We are passionate about advocating for better skincare options and sun safety awareness within the Black and Brown communities. Our mission extends beyond products; we seek to inspire change and foster a culture of proactive skin health.
Ultimate UV Defense
Advanced sunscreens offering maximum protection against harmful UV rays.
Hydrating Sunblock
Moisturizing formulas that keep your skin hydrated while protecting from the sun.
Mineral Magic
Gentle mineral-based sunscreens ideal for sensitive skin types.
Our Story
Inspiration - Growth - Advocacy
2016
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2016
Foundation and First Product Launch
- Founding: Shontay Lundy founded Black Girl Sunscreen (BGS) in 2016 out of frustration with the lack of sunscreen products that catered to darker skin tones. She invested $33,000 of her savings to start the company.
- Product Launch: Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 was launched, a moisturizing sunscreen formulated for women of color that absorbs completely clear, leaving no white residue
2018
Expansion and Vision
- Growth Plans: Shontay Lundy envisioned BGS products being available at major national retailers like Macy’s and Bloomingdales. She continued to push the brand through grassroots marketing and community engagement.
2019
Retail Milestones and New Products
- Target Launch: BGS became the first indie Black-owned sunscreen brand carried by Target, launching in 250 stores nationwide.
- BGS Kids SPF 50: Introduction of the first sunscreen lotion for kids of color.
- International Expansion: BGS launched its signature moisturizing sunscreen lotion in Nigeria.
2020
Investment and Product Development
- Private Funding: BGS received $1 million in private funding to support its growth.
2021
Major Retail Expansion and New Product Launches
- Target Full Chain Launch: BGS products became available in all Target stores nationwide.
- Ulta Launch: BGS launched into Ulta stores, increasing its retail presence.
- Make It Matte SPF 45: A mattifying sunscreen for the face was introduced.
- Nationwide Recognition: Shontay Lundy starred in a nationwide Target commercial.
2022
Trademark and New Innovations
- Trademark: The name Black Girl Sunscreen was officially trademarked.
- Make It Hybrid SPF 50: A hybrid, mineral, and synthetic blend formula was launched.
- Make it Glow SPF 30: The first sunscreen spray for BGS.
- BGS Kids Spray & Play SPF 50: A sunscreen spray designed for kids.
- Make It Spice: A pumpkin-spice sunscreen face lotion and body mist duo.
- Retail Expansion: BGS products launched in Walgreens, CVS, Macy’s online, and Nordstrom Rack.
2023
Cosmetic Category and Further Expansion
- Make It Pop SPF 50 Sungloss: BGS introduced its first cosmetic product, Make it Pop SPF 50 sun gloss.
- New Retail Partners: BGS products became available in Walmart, Kohl’s, and its first grocery store.
- Retail Presence: BGS products are now available in over 12,000 stores across the United States.
2024
Ongoing Growth and Community Impact
- Continued Expansion: BGS continued to grow its product line and expand its presence both domestically and internationally, maintaining a focus on quality and community engagement.
Black Girl Sunscreen showcases Shontay’s dedication to solving a unique problem, her perseverance through challenges, and her success in making BGS a recognized and respected brand in the skincare industry.