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Nneka Garel-Portes

Glow Up and Protect: Nneka's Guide to Sunscreen All Year Round in the Northeast

Hey, hey, beautiful people! It's your friendly neighborhood esthetician here, and today we're going to talk about something that should be a staple in your skincare routine, no matter the season or weather. You guessed it right - sunscreen! Now, I know what you might be thinking: "Why do I need sunscreen when it's gloomy and cold in the Northeast half the year?" Well, let me spill the tea on why sunscreen is an absolute must for that radiant glow, and why you should never skip it, Nneka style!

First of all, let me say that the Northeast can be pretty unpredictable. One minute you're chilling with your cozy sweaters, sipping hot cocoa, and the next moment, bam! The sun decides to peek through the clouds and say "Hi!" Now, I'm not mad at the sun for wanting to make an appearance, but you gotta be ready for it, hun! Those harmful UV rays don't care if it's winter or summer - they're always there, just like you with your fierce confidence!

Even on cloudy days, those sneaky UV rays penetrate through the clouds and reach your beautiful skin. They're like that friend who always shows up uninvited - rude! But that's where your BFF, sunscreen, comes into play. It creates a protective shield, making sure those UV rays get the message: "Thou shall not pass!" Your skin deserves to be treated like the royalty it is, and sunscreen is the knight in shining armor defending its honor.

Now, I get it - you might be worried that slathering on sunscreen could mess up your flawless makeup or leave you feeling greasy and sticky. But fear not, my lovelies! With the fantastic advancements in skincare, you can find lightweight, non-greasy sunscreens that play well with your makeup and keep you looking like the red carpet diva you are. Ain't nobody got time for that heavy, pore-clogging stuff! Remember, the key is to find a sunscreen that suits your skin type, just like finding the perfect dress that hugs your curves in all the right places.


Also, sunscreen is only needed when you'll be in the sun for a prolonged period of time, okay? This doesn't include bodega runs or a quick 5 minute walk to the subway. Think 15 minutes or more outdoors, in your car or by a window.

Listen, I know we all want to age like fine wine, but let's be real - nobody wants premature wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots crashing their party. Sunscreen is like that VIP pass that keeps you looking fresh and youthful, no matter your age! And since you're all about securing that bag, let me tell you this - investing in sunscreen now is way cheaper than trying to reverse sun damage later with expensive serums and treatments.

Now, let's talk about another myth that needs to be busted - that melanin-rich skin doesn't need sunscreen. Honey, that couldn't be farther from the truth! Melanin might give us some natural protection, but we still need that extra layer of defense. Your melanin is popping, and sunscreen will only add to that natural glow - it won't dull your shine, I promise!

So, whether it's winter, spring, summer, or fall, I want you to remember one thing: sunscreen is your ride or die. Protect your skin, embrace your beauty, and let that glow shine through all year round! My FAVORITE sunscreen is Black Girl Sunscreen! BGS is like liquid gold! Since 2021, every member of my family uses this sunscreen whether we're on vacation or playing sports, and I can confidently tell you that it won't leave a white cast on your skin or make you breakout.



Remember, you've got this, and I'm here cheering you on from the sidelines. Stay fierce, stay fabulous, and slay that skincare game, Nneka style!


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