Everyone’s skin is different and can benefit from a tailored care routine. Black skin contains more melanin than lighter skin. Melanin-producing cells may be more susceptible to the effects of inflammation and injury, which may be more noticeable in dark skin than in light skin.
Different skin care routines benefit different skin colors, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). This is due to variances in the structure and function of the skin.
In this article, we will focus on top tips to care for black skin.
1. Cleanse and moisturize daily
To keep skin bright and supple, it is best to cleanse and moisturize it daily, ideally right after showering.
Use a gentle cleanser that does not clog the pores. It may be worth looking for one that claims to be “non-comedogenic.”
Massage the cleanser into the skin with clean fingertips, then rinse it off with warm (not hot) water and pat the skin dry with a clean towel.
Avoid moisturizers with fragrances, as these can irritate some people’s skin. Moisturizers that include creams or ointments are preferable to lotions.
2. Always wear sunscreen
One of the biggest myths about black skin is that it does not burn and that black people do not need to wear sunscreen. This is untrue, and everyone should use adequate sun protection.
Although people with black skin are less likely to get skin cancer from sun exposure, they are more likely to die from the condition if it does develop. This may be because it is more difficult to notice and diagnose.
People should apply sunscreen all year round to all areas of exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
Many regular moisturizers contain SPF, including facial moisturizers. Sun protection is especially important on the face, as it is often the only part of the skin that gets sun exposure all year round.
Face creams with SPF are available in pharmacies, drug stores, and online.
3. Vitamin C can reduce hyperpigmentation, protect against sun damage, and increase collagen levels. However, vitamin C has a poor ability to penetrate the skin, so more research into its effectiveness for these purposes is necessary.
4. Eat a balanced diet
Good skin care starts on the inside. To give skin the nutrients it needs to form and repair itself, eat a healthful diet rich in:
fruits and vegetables
whole grains
lean protein sources, such as fish, eggs, and legumes
healthful fats, including nuts, avocado, and olive oil
5. Care for Your Skin
One of the best benefits of staying active is the amazing impact it has on your skin. As you move your body and sweat, you expel dirt, excess oils, and more that could potentially block your pores and lead to acne, dull skin, and more. Kate not only works out which helps care for her skin, but she also uses ingredients like retinol and vitamin c to maintain great-looking skin.
6. Be Happy
Another great tip on how to age gracefully, which is often overlooked is being happy. Maintaining a happy state actually plays a huge role in how well you age.
7. Smile & Love Yourself
Always show yourself some love and wear a smiling face. For every negative thought you have about or towards yourself, counter it by repeating a positive thought 7 times. Make this a habit until your mind is programmed to think more positively.
8. Surround Yourself with the Right Ambience
Maintain positivity with music and also surround yourself with the right ambiance.