Hello Meltingpot Readers,
Just last month I wrote a post about a theory I was forming connecting lotion use in white people with their “wokeness.” After hearing from a wide selection of white people and discussing it with some lotion “experts,” I realized that my theory was a bit off. Lotion use does not seem to correlate with “wokeness,” but not having to incorporate lotion into one’s daily grooming routine is a form of privilege, a privilege most Black people do not enjoy.
Black people learn from a very early age that being out in the world with ashy skin is not an option. It’s just not. We apply lotion every day – sometimes twice a day – or risk being ostracized by polite society. That doesn’t happen to white people because, generally speaking, white people don’t get ashy.
But what if one is biracial? What is the relationship with lotion like for people who are both Black and white? Coincidentally, a hilarious but heartfelt essay by journalist David Kaufman appeared in Lenny Letter yesterday that answered that very question, and let me just say, I learned a lot. My understanding about just how significant a role lotion plays in identity politics is now even greater.
From the essay:
“And that’s where the lotion comes in. Because nothing suggests self-neglect like ashy skin. It’s a sign of classlessness that transcends age, sex, and location, though centuries of colorism ensure that the lightest-skinned black folks typically have the most access to wealth — and least ash!”
It’s a quick, informative and enjoyable read, and I suggest anybody who cares about the intersection of identity politics, and lotion should take notes.
You can thank me later.
Peace!
