This story was originally published in ESSENCE’s special 55th anniversary July/August 2025 issue, on stands now. When ESSENCE magazine’s inaugural issue was released in May of 1970, it stood alone in ...

Some of the most iconic voices in hip-hop and R&B are taking over New Orleans this weekend at the 2025 Essence Festival of Culture. The long-standing festival will feature a jam-packed lineup of ...

This story is featured in the July/August 2025, 55th anniversary issue of ESSENCE. ESSENCE has long been attuned to what Black women want and need—especially when it comes to conversations about sex.

I totally forgot Essence Fest was even coming up until I saw someone post about it on Instagram and instantly felt behind. Every July, people show up and show out in New Orleans. We’re talking head-to ...

Exosomes are one of many buzzwords in the skincare field right now. Science and innovation has shifted the priority for today’s consumers and industry goals from immediate appearance and reactive care ...