Shenseea on Her Creative Process and the Importance of Self-Care

For Jamaican singer and dancer Shenseea, beauty has always been an integral part of who she is. Thanks to her mother, who was an esthetician, the reggae artist has understood the significance of self-care and the confidence that comes from looking your best. Now, she's intertwining her love for beauty into her passion for making music.

Growing up, Shenseea's idols made her conscious of how powerful music can be. Citing Michael Jackson as one of her major inspirations, the artist began to dream about performing for people, too. "The energy and emotion in his music made me feel electrifying and I knew I wanted to create that same kind of impact for others. That's where it all started," she tells Hypebae.

Although the singer recalls various highlights throughout her career, she cites her Grammy nomination as one of the most pivotal moments thus far. "That felt surreal and made everything I've worked for feel recognized," she says. While the nomination was a testament to how far she's come, she also recognizes it as just another reason to keep striving for more.

 

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When writing music, Shenseea's creative process values feeling over a strict methodical process. Over the years, she's found that the best songs come from sheer inspiration — whether that means working with co-writers on a more experimental sound or letting the beat guide her thinking. Above all else, the singer-songwriter is constantly striving to find the right feeling, in hopes of channeling that energy into her music.

Just like music, beauty also plays a big role in the star's life, "[My mom] loved doing my hair, and that taught me early on how important self-care is, inside and out." Even with how packed her schedule gets, the Grammy-nominated artist continues to prioritize her well-being — which of course includes keeping up with her beauty routine.

In between collaborating with Mariah Carey and working behind the scenes on her very own lip gloss, Shenseea doesn't always have time to spend all day pampering herself — but, that doesn't mean she's not taking good care of her skin. "Always moisturize. That simple tip is a game-changer, it keeps your skin healthy and helps slow down signs of aging. I live by it," she says.

From The Mane Choice Ancient Egyptian Antidote Mousse to Sol de Janeiro's cult-favorite body products — ahead, Shenseea spills all of her beauty must-haves.

The Mane Choice Ancient Egyptian Antidote Mousse

[shoppable brand="The Mane Choice" product="The Mane Choice Ancient Egyptian Antidote Mousse" link="https://themanechoice.com/products/ancient-egyptian-antidote-ultimate-definition-setting-mousse" store="The Mane Choice" price="$15 USD"]

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"The Mane Choice Ancient Egyptian Antidote mousse is my go-to. It keeps my curls fresh and defined without needing a full salon day. It's perfect for my busy schedule."

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

[shoppable brand="Laneige" product="Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask" link="https://us.laneige.com/products/lip-sleeping-mask" store="Laneige" price="$25 USD"]

[/shoppable]

Shenseea relies on the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask to keep her lips hydrated in between performances and events.

Coconut Oil

[shoppable brand="Sky Organics" product="Sky Organics Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil" link="https://skyorganics.com/products/organic-coconut-oil" store="Sky Organics" price="$18 USD"]

[/shoppable]

"[Coconut oil] is a staple in my household, it moisturizes deeply and smells amazing."

Xerjoff Erba Pura

[shoppable brand="Xerjoff" product="Xerjoff Erba Pura" link="https://www.nordstrom.com/s/erba-pura-eau-de-parfum/8101979" store="Nordstrom" price="$190 USD"]

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"I’m drawn to Xerjoff's Erba Pura — anything with a feminine floral scent."

Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream

[shoppable brand="Sol De Janeiro" product="Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream" link="https://soldejaneiro.com/products/brazilian-bum-bum-cream" store="Sol De Janeiro" price="$48 USD"]

[/shoppable]

When it comes to body care, Shenseea loves Sol De Janeiro's products.

While you're here, check out our coverage on Rare Beauty's first-ever perfume.

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