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Black America Web
6 hours ago
- Health
- Black America Web
7 Everyday Uses For Organic Coconut Oil
Source: Jacob Wackerhausen / Getty The beauty trend 'Black Girl Hygiene Routine' is currently occupying my TikTok feed. Rows of body washes, oils, exfoliating gloves, probiotics, tongue scrapers, herbs, and serums—all organized with precision and narrated with pride. And rightfully so. There's something powerful about seeing Black women create a space for themselves that's the gold standard of soft, sacred, luxurious care. But what makes me smile most is the way so many of those routines include the one thing that's been a staple in our community for generations, coconut oil. While the algorithm is just catching on, we been knew. Coconut oil has been in our bathrooms, kitchens, and medicine cabinets long before it was trending. Long before hashtags and Amazon storefronts, our mamas, aunties, and grandmothers were teaching us how to stay clean, moisturized, and ready. One of the first lessons I ever got in holistic hygiene came from my mother, a Southern Black woman with wisdom laced in everything she did. She taught me how to oil pull with coconut oil for fresh breath and gum health—before I ever heard the term 'oral microbiome.' Back then, it wasn't a wellness trend. It was tradition. So let me tell you why coconut oil is not only TikTok-approved, but soul-approved—and why every woman, especially Black women, should always have a few bottles in her life. 1. It's The Original Multi-Tasker—Because Simplicity Is Luxury We live in a time where everybody's trying to sell you something new. But coconut oil is that old-school, ride-or-die kind of product that shows up for you every time. It's moisturizer, deep conditioner, lip balm, shaving oil, cooking base, wood polish, diaper rash treatment—and still has room to surprise you. When life is complicated, this one simple jar feels like peace. And that's a luxury our mamas and grandmamas understood without needing to hashtag it. 2. It Loves On Our Hair—Because Black Hair Deserves Deep, Intentional Nourishment There's nothing like the bond between a Black woman and her hair. And coconut oil has been part of that story for generations. Whether it's massaging it into your scalp with a little peppermint oil, blending it into your shea butter mix, or using it to seal in moisture after a twist-out, coconut oil is the truth. It strengthens, softens, and adds shine without weighing down the hair. And when used with care, it becomes more than a product—it's a ritual. One that reconnects us to our roots—literally and spiritually. 3. It Heals And Protects Our Skin—Because Black Don't Crack…But We Still Moisturize Yes, sis—Black don't crack. But let's be real: it still gets dry, ashy, irritated, and exposed to the same environmental stressors as everyone else. Coconut oil is a blessing for melanin-rich skin. It helps fade scars, soothe eczema, soften stretch marks, and protect that glow we were born with. Use it straight out the shower. Add it to a sugar scrub. Mix it with lavender oil and give yourself a foot rub like the queen you are. Your skin will thank you—and your selfies will show it. 4. It Removes Makeup Gently—Because Softness Is A Form of Strength At the end of the day, when the lashes come off and the beat gets wiped away, you need something that respects your face as much as you do. Coconut oil gently dissolves even waterproof makeup without irritation. No burning, no tugging. Just smooth removal and moisturized skin underneath. It's like the softest goodbye—because even when you're taking it all off, you deserve tenderness. 5. It Supports Feminine Health—Because Every Part of You Deserves Care Our intimate areas need love too, and coconut oil can offer gentle support when used wisely. It can ease vaginal dryness, reduce friction, and soothe irritation. And because it's naturally antimicrobial, it can even help rebalance external areas after shaving or waxing. But here's what my mother taught me: just because it's natural doesn't mean you shouldn't be mindful. Use it clean. Use it pure. And use it with respect for your body. You are sacred, sis. Treat yourself like it. 6. It Cleanses From The Inside Out—Thank You, Mama I know oil pulling has been rediscovered by wellness girlies everywhere now—but let the record show: my mama did it first. She'd grab a spoonful of organic coconut oil, swish it around her mouth while boiling her morning tea, then spit it out like it was part of communion. She swore by it for fresh breath, gum strength, and gut health. And she was right. These days, I do it too—every morning. Not because it's trending, but because it works. It reminds me that Black women have always had sacred knowledge about our bodies. And coconut oil? That's one of the things we've been holding close all along. 7. It's More Than A Product—It's Ancestral Wisdom In A Jar The girls on TikTok are making hygiene glamorous, and I love that for us. But beneath the aesthetics and Amazon links is something deeper: a reclamation. We're not just keeping clean—we're keeping sacred. We're saying, 'My body deserves to be honored, daily.' And coconut oil is part of that daily devotion. Whether it's healing our skin, softening our hair, or being spooned into our mouths like my mama taught me—it's a reminder of who we are. Of how we care for ourselves and for one another. Whether you found out about coconut oil from your mama, your big sister, or your FYP on TikTok, just know this: it belongs in your life. Keep a jar in the bathroom. One in the kitchen. One in your bag just in case the day asks more of you than you planned. Because coconut oil is more than a trend. It's ancestral wisdom in a jar. SEE ALSO 7 Everyday Uses For Organic Coconut Oil was originally published on Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE
Buzz Feed
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
25 Target Beauty Steals That Beat Expensive Brands
A luxe MCoBeauty Summer Daze Tinted Lip Oil for when you want that I woke up like this hydrated glow on your smackers. No pricey liner, no mirror or ring light? No problem. It's the easiest way to fake effort while still looking and feeling fancy. Promising review: "Love this! So smooth on the lips and very hydrating. Nice little tint of color. Really impressed with it." —Abby Price: $8.99 (available in four colors) An Essence mini eyeshadow palette that costs less than your daily coffee order but seriously delivers on pigment, blendability, and glam vibes. How's *that* for an instant energy boost? Promising review: "Love this palette of eyeshadow. My favorite colors all in one palette. So happy." —Mama22Price: $3.99 (originally $19.59; available in seven color combos) Or a single ColourPop eyeshadow if you don't want to splurge on a full palette (or just don't need or desire every single color they come with) and would rather carefully select your fave shades and colors individually. These are extremely blendable *and* highly pigmented without you paying top-shelf price. Promising review: "Talk about sparkle! This formula is so unique. There's a soft wash of color mixed with flecks of glitter, and it's stunning on the eyes." —Target reviewerPrice: $7 (available in six colors) A Native hair mask as affordable as it is effective and easy as pie to use: simply let it sit in wet hair for 3–5 minutes, then wash it out and enjoy strands so soft and smooth, you'll wonder if you've just stepped out of a hair commercial (wind machine sadly sold separately). Promising review: "I've always used/tried different hair masks and nothing has ever stuck out to me. This mask makes my hair super soft and shiny. My hair has a healthy feel/glow! I'm already on my second bottle and I hope they carry this forever." —sammyn Price: $9.99 A brilliantly affordable Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 made by women of color to protect your skin from sun damage while adding much-needed moisture. Bonus: it won't leave an annoying white residue behind as it dries completely clear. Promising review: "Awesome product that doesn't break my face out, as all others have — including the so-called gentle brands. It also works better at protecting better than the overly priced brands." —Chanchan75Price: $15.99 (originally $19.59) A glittery gold Essie nail polish because who needs jewelry when your nails sparkle like this? Perfect for a night out, a work soirée, or just adding a little extra shine to your Tuesday... pop it on by itself or over your fave color for instant magic. No expensive manicurist needed. 💅✨ Promising review: "I used it over a gold polish and it looked great! The glitter made my nails pop!" —JlowderPrice: $9.99 An alcohol-free and unscented Thayers facial toner, which truly sets the *tone* for great, reasonably priced skincare. Reviewers herald it as an absolute lifesaver for dry, stressed-out skin, as it leaves your face hydrated, refreshed, and ready to take on the world (or at least the next step of your routine). Promising review: "This toner has been a game-changer for my skincare routine! I love that it's gentle on my skin yet still effectively removes impurities and balances my complexion. Since it's alcohol-free, it doesn't dry out my skin or cause any irritation, which is a big plus. The unscented formula is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin or those who prefer a more neutral experience. I've noticed my skin feels smoother, hydrated, and refreshed after each use. The packaging is simple, easy to use, and a little goes a long way. This toner has quickly become a staple in my daily skincare regimen, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a gentle, non-drying toner." —A complete set Price: $11.49 (also available in rose petal, lavender, and cucumber scents) A ColourPop highlighter stick so you can get that vacation level glow without dropping vacation level prices. Creamy and compact enough to live in your bag, it's the kind of glow-up that goes wherever you do. Promising review: "This was a great affordable option. I liked that it blended nicely and was creamy. The highlight stayed in place nicely and wore great through the day. Buildable to get your desired effect. I liked the ease of application due to the stick formulation. I like the color/tone of this highlight (from a highlight addict!)" —JulandthepPrice: $10 (available in two colors) An E.l.f. face sponge for super smooth liquid and cream makeup application. This lil' powerhouse is essential for everyone's makeup tool kit, as it blends to absolute perfection with no streaking or need for a blending brush. Just be sure to clean it regularly. Promising review: "Amazing!! My favorite makeup sponge to buy. Perfect sponge for a cheap price." —ErinPrice: $6 A hydrating Essie roll-on cuticle oil that smells like fresh apricots and feels like a mini spa treatment for your nails. Swipe it on, let it soak in, and enjoy hands that look like you just stepped out of an expensive salon — no appointment necessary. Promising review: "Works great. Easy to put on and smells great, too." —CnelPrice: $18.29 A pack of Neutrogena makeup-removing wipes to prevent mascara stains and makeup streaks from turning your pillowcase into a piece of modern art by morning. These are gentle on your skin, so you don't have to worry about them drying it or causing irritation. Promising review: "Neutrogena face wipes are great for gently removing eye makeup. I also like how cool and smooth they feel in your face as a 'wake up' in the morning." —RozziPrice: $1.99+ (available in three sizes) A nourishing Ogx anti-breakage leave-in serum that's like a protective shield for your hair because no one has time for frizz, am I right? This little bottle of magic smoothes, strengthens, and gives strands the kind of shine that'll have everyone asking if you've been using some kind of magic hair potion. Promising review: "This product has a long-lasting smell (a great coconut smell) and leaves my hair soft and moisturized! My hair is much shinier, softer, stronger, and hydrated. My hair is straight-wavy and I love it. It's also super affordable compared to other products!! This is a yes!" —lillyPrice: $10.19 A Maybelline mascara featuring a ~super flexible~ wand and sensational lash flare effect that'll leave your lashes feeling soft and conditioned in addition to looking voluminous and absolutely wow-worthy, all without giving your wallet a workout because, yes, this glam is totally budget-friendly. Promising review: "I got this mascara because it caught my eye, and it did not disappoint! It doesn't leave my lashes clumpy, but it gives them definition and length. Also, my curl lasts all day!! I will definitely keep purchasing!" —OhPrice: $11.89 (available in several styles) A pack of satin sleep scrunchies to wear while you snooze so your locks can rest and refresh without tangling. They're low-effort, affordable, 100% fabulous, and great for ALL hair types, so feel free to gift 'em to everyone you know with long hair. Promising review: "Love these! Purchased twice (once for myself and once as a gift) and they are perfect for both thick and thin hair! Holds my super thick hair without pulling!" —Eld14Price: $9.79 for a pack of five (available in three colors) A Jergens cherry almond moisturizer *cherry picked* for ultimate softness (and its deliciously low price tag). I mean, truly the almond joy your skin's been craving: rich, silky, and nut-urally irresistible. 🍒 Promising review: "This has always been my favorite lotion. Love how it smells and leaves my skin feeling soft." —Caligirl73Price: $5.69+ (available in three sizes) A Revlon kiss balm because when it comes to preventing and treating my chapped lips for cheap, NOTHING comes close to this miraculous little balm that also boasts SPF 20. Promising review: "Love this stuff! Perfect for keeping your lips smooth." —HPrice: $5.59 (available in five colors and flavors) A portable Versed bronzer stick that blends out in seconds and gives you that sun-kissed glow without you needing a single brush (or a minute spent in front of a UV ray). It's perfect for a quick makeup routine that's as chill as your fave iced coffee order. Price: $14.99 (available in three shades) A Kristen Ess moisturizing shampoo that gives dry strands the tall glass of water they've been begging for. This stuff is nourishing and budget-friendly enough to make luxe hair care part of your everyday routine. Promising review: "This is a GREAT shampoo/conditioner combo!!!! I was really nervous to go back to drugstore after falling in love with Dae products, but this works just as well as the expensive stuff for half the price!!! My hair feels so soft and this has a nice smell that lasts!! I will be repurchasing!! Not to mention gorgeous packaging!!" —KayleePrice: $5.99+ (available in three sizes) A jar of Aquaphor healing ointment that's basically the MVP of your affordable skincare stash, as it's soothing, multi-tasking, and always there to save the day (or your lips, cuticles, elbows… you name it). Promising review: "Aquaphor is great for dry skin during the fall and winter. A little goes a long way. It's not like lotion; it's more concentrated and does a better job than just lotion." —LuluPrice: $5.49+ (available in two sizes) A Garnier micellar water that melts off every last bit of makeup (waterproof mascara included) without leaving your skin feeling tight or thirsty. It only removes the bad stuff, making it a dry-skin dream. And the best part? It's gentle on your face and your wallet. Promising review: "Very effective in deep cleaning and removing makeup, including mascara." —jrPrice: $4.99+ (available in three sizes) An Odele leave-in detangling tonic for a lightweight spray that tackles tangles, frizz, and knots with zero effort, leaving you with smooth, shiny strands and a whole lot of money saved on splurging on pricier products. Promising review: "I love how this product makes my hair feel after allowing it to dry, then flat ironing it or curling it. I use it right after towel-drying my hair. I start at the ends of my hair, then the root. I have thick, frizzy, wavy hair. This works wonders." —The taste was just rightPrice: $12.99 An E.l.f. waterproof liquid eyeliner pen because precision this sharp shouldn't cost an arm and a leg (or an eye, to be more pun specific). Whether you're going for a subtle flick or a don't-mess-with-me wing, this pen gives you FULL CONTROL over your cat-eye destiny. Promising review: "I've used liquid eyeliner for winged eyes almost daily for the past 15 years. I've used everything from the most expensive to the cheapest, and this has to be the best eyeliner I've ever purchased. Stays perfectly unless you rub your eyes often, then, it can definitely start to come off. Survives most crying sessions, and it's super black and opaque and never ever dries out. I've repurchased 50 x over and will continue to do so because even the highest-end eyeliners don't compare!" —catPrice: $8 The Doux Mousse Def Texture Foam that gives your hair that effortless, just-woke-up-like-this volume and texture. Whether you're aiming for waves or a tousled, full-bodied look, this mousse is your secret weapon. Bonus? It doesn't leave your hair crunchy. Just touchable, soft perfection. Promising review: "I've been using this for a while now. The ONLY product that I've ever used that detangles, moisturizes and defines my curls. It is 100% consistent. I can't even bring myself to buy another product for my curls. I have mixed hair 3c curls. Thick and coarse." —SDgirl88Price: $15.99 A Wet n Wild soft blur matte lipstick that glides on smoother than your favorite Oscar-winning movie plot twist, serving up a dreamy, soft-focus finish without drying out your lips... all without costing as much as a red carpet-worthy outfit, of course. Promising review: "While the shade I bought isn't for me, I love this formula! This is a great creamy matte lipstick with good pigment that doesn't accentuate the dry spots on my lips. And while it's a matte finish, it's not drying at all. I also appreciate the light, sweet vanilla/sugary scent. I've already ordered two other shades for delivery. And for the price? *Chef's Kiss!*" —SjashbyPrice: $4.79 (available in four shades) And a Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine hairspray that will have your strands so smooth and frizz free, even humidity will be like, "Wait, what just happened?" No spend-y salon appointment necessary. Promising review: "I love this hairspray! I think it works really well to keep my hair in place without making it sticky, crunchy, or hard. It smells amazing and is a great finishing spray for all of my hairstyles. It definitely keeps my curls in place while still leaving them flexible and soft." —Larkspur37Price: $7.49
Washington Post
4 days ago
- General
- Washington Post
Book Review: A diary sends a woman on a quest to solve the cold case of 6 missing Black girls
At age 13, Sydney Singleton discovered an old photograph tucked away in a drawer in her paternal grandmother's guest room. It was a portrait of a Black girl just entering her teen years — a girl who looked a lot like Sydney. Next morning, Sydney asked her grandmother about it. The woman, her voice 'firm as the oak tree on her front lawn,' would say only this: 'We don't talk about Carol.'
Black America Web
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
From Grill To Glam: Black Girl BBQ Essentials You Need This Summer
Source: Courtesy of ASOS / Courtesy of ASOS The connection between Black girls and barbecues runs deeper than just showing up for good food—it's about culture, community, and claiming joy. BBQs have long been a staple of Black family and social life, and for Black girls, they're often a space of freedom and expression. It's where we learn the art of styling outfits that balance heat with style, where we show off freshly done braids, where aunties praise our growth, and cousins keep us laughing. These sacred events hold deep cultural significance for our community, reminding us of our roots, traditions, resourcefulness, and the power of gathering. For many Black girls, these events serve as memory banks filled with soulful music, nostalgic food aromas, fashion, and a sense of belonging. It's not just about being there—it's about being seen, being loved, and being fly while doing it. Black Girl BBQ Essentials Related Stories The essentials for Black girls and BBQ events go beyond the food and partying. They fully express our essence, swag, traditions, and innovative survival tactics that keep us safe and cute simultaneously. Think oversized shades, a laid-back yet fly outfit (maybe something off-the-shoulder or a matching set), sunscreen, a fan, and a cute tumbler full of water to keep us comfortable, hydrated, and glowing. Along with our tasty side dishes that we contribute to the soiree—mac and cheese, baked beans, or a peach cobbler blessed by granny's recipe- we can't forget the crucial elements that help us brave the day-long, fun-filled extravaganza. Jump in below to discover the Black girl barbecue essentials that will ensure you have the best time at your next backyard shindig. Because it's all about showing up as your most comfortable, whole self—stylish, cool , radiant, and ready to laugh, eat, and hold space with your people. From Grill To Glam: Black Girl BBQ Essentials You Need This Summer was originally published on Source:Black Girl Sunscreen We're all about protecting melanin. Before setting up at any barbecue this summer, be sure to rub your brown skin with some sunscreen that not only shields you from the sun but also doesn't leave a white cast. Source:Courtesy of ASOS We are obsessed with texture this season, and a set like this is ideal for slaying a backyard soiree. Pair it with your favorite slides and a cute pair of sunnies, and your BBQ outfit is complete. Source:Courtesy of Amazon BBQs are usually held outside during some of the hottest months of the year. To stay comfortable and cool, consider purchasing a portable misting fan that you can easily access from your stylish bag at any time to combat the heat. Source:Courtesy of Dick's Now you know the seats are usually reserved for the elders at the family BBQ. No worries, though, because a cute outdoor chair like this will not only provide a comfortable spot to sit but also complement your stylish look—a win-win. Source:Courtesy of The Lip Bar What's a BBQ essential list without a popping lippie? It's a must we roll into any BBQ function with a cute lipstick on that can't be denied. Try The Lip Bar's latest red shade to glam up your BBQ look. Source:Courtesy of Amazon It's a must we stay hydrated while at the BBQ, so why not do so while sipping out of a cute tumbler that matches our Black girl essence?! And if you want to add another beverage to your tumbler besides water, that's your business! Source:Courtesy of Amazon To keep your face protected while outside at the BBQ, apply this face sun stick, packed with the essentials you need to protect your face against UV rays. It fits right in your purse and can be re-applied throughout the day. Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE
