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Born and raised on Chicago’s South Side, Smith-Lash came up with the idea for Coarse Culture when her mother was diagnosed with lupus, a long-term autoimmune disease that left her hair and skin brittle and irritated. After asking doctors for recommendations and researching products to try to find relief for her mother, Smith-Lash decided to make her own product - whipped shea butter with all-natural ingredients that provided comfort without aggravating sensitivities. At the age 21 years old, Smith-Lash has opened Coarse Culture’s online shop to the public.

“I’ve seen first-hand how difficult it is to find relief when you or a loved one is struggling with disease, irritation or general dryness,” said Smith-Lash. “When my mom got sick, I saw my superhero whittle away. But then, as she started applying the shea butter that I created each day, I saw a light come back - her hair was thicker, her skin was softer. I’m so honored and thankful that I’m able to bring that relief and transformation to others through Coarse Culture.”

Headquartered in Oxford,OH the Black-owned business offers whipped shea butter in six fragrances: Poundcake, Lavender, Spearmint, Orange Twist, Eucalyptus and Unscented. Each butter is made up of raw shea butter, coconut oil, vitamin E oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil. All-natural essential oils also contribute to the fragranced butters’ unique scents.