5 skincare tips for black skin
Regardless of skin tone, good skin care is essential to keep the skin bright, healthy and balanced. Having said that, some skincare practices are better suited to some skin tones than others.
Black skin contains higher levels of melanin, which means that it’s more likely to experience inflammation, pigmentation and other skin issues. That’s why we put together these five essential tips so that you can care for your beautiful black skin the right way.
Wear Sun Protection, Always!
Many people think that black skin doesn’t get sunburnt, but in reality, it does! It might take a little bit longer due to the increased level of melanin present in the skin, but sunburn and even skin cancer due to sun exposure can occur. Sun exposure can also contribute to the formation of dark spots or make current dark spots become even darker.
However, by wearing sunscreen daily, you can prevent these issues from occurring and protect your beautiful skin. Experts recommend wearing a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and also has an SPF factor of at least 30.
Moisturise & Cleanse Every Day
Cleansers will help remove dead skin cells, oil and other impurities from the skin. This will prevent a buildup of these items from clogging your pores and causing skin issues like acne.
Moisturising is essential for keeping the skin hydrated and supple. Moisturisers that contain humectants (like hyaluronic acid) are great for moisture retention.
Don’t Leave Your Acne Untreated
No one likes having acne splayed across their skin. The best way to combat acne is to start by treating it early. A skincare routine that is gentle and makes use of oil-free, and does not cause blocked pores is best for black skin with acne.
Know How To Treat Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation refers to darker spots that develop on the skin due to the production of excess melanin. While people of all skin tones can have hyperpigmentation, people with black skin are more prone to developing the characteristic dark spots as their skin contains higher levels of melanin.
The best way to prevent hyperpigmentation from developing is to wear sunscreen; this won’t get rid of spots that have already developed. However, there are some products that can help to lighten or even remove these spots.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can reduce dark spots. It can also provide protection against sun damage and contribute to increased levels of collagen in the skin. However, the body does not absorb vitamin C well, so you shouldn’t only rely on this preventative measure.
Other effective treatment options include retinoids, hydroquinone-containing products and Kojic acid. However, the above products should not be used in excess as they can irritate and potentially damage the skin.
Good, Healthy Diet
Lastly, people with black skin should try to follow a healthy diet, as the food we consume can significantly impact our skin’s health. Processed, high-sugar foods, as well as excess levels of alcohol, can contribute to bad skin as well as conditions such as psoriasis.
Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats into your diet to promote healthy, clear black skin. If you have other skin issues, such as eczema, we recommend you get in touch with a professional, as they can best advise you on how to proceed with regard to diet and skincare.
Black Skincare Tips: A Summary
A well-managed skincare routine is essential and should be tailored to your skin. For black skin, sun protection, a healthy diet, moisturisers, cleaners and solid preventative treatments are needed to create a good skincare routine that leaves the skin bright and healthy.
