Everyday Maintenance For Healthy Black Skin
We’ve all used culturally – coined terms, “Melanin Poppin,” and/or “Black Don’t Crack,” to playfully describe the uniqueness of darker skin complexions. Whether we’re hi-fiving our aunties for their skin’s agelessness, or enjoying the ability of our skin natural protection from UV rays found in sunlight, there is no question that black skin should be celebrated for its superpowers. But, black skin is oftentimes much more sensitive.
According to Like Me Natural Skincare Owner DeJan Toney, black skin is super sensitive and many harsh chemicals found in traditional skincare products have a few effects on darker complexions.
“A lot of top-shelf products use harsh chemicals and alcohol that tend to dry out the skin and strip it of its natural oils. Because of this, two things happen number one; our skin tries to overcompensate for the oil it’s lost, and number two; our skin reproduces tight and dry –feeling skin,” Toney said.
While the melanin cells in our skin are advantageous for many reasons, there are a few not – so – desirable aspects of our skin that Sheen is here to address to make sure we keep that amazing glow for as long as possible.
Acne and Breakouts
Acne breakout is the absolute worst! For many people of color, if not properly treated, it can leave scarring, dark patches, and keloids. To prevent this from occurring, adopting an all-natural skincare regime as Pure Tropix Tropical Facial Kit can significantly treat existing acne breakouts and improve your skin’s overall health. PT collection includes three items that are suggested for daily use that deeply penetrate the skin’s layers to detoxify and repair damaged skin. And, it’s ALL natural. The kit includes: Purifying Honey Oil Cleanser– Enriched with organic honey—a natural antibacterial and antioxidant, it helps open and unclog pores.
Jungle Clay Mask – Fortified with ingredients like Coconut Charcoal to draw out bacteria, dirt and toxins from the skin naturally, this mask detoxifies the skin without removing its natural oils.
Exotic Face Moisturizer –Light and non–greasy, this moisturizer is best used after cleansing and toning the face. Packed with Passion Fruit and Carrot – Seed Oils, along with vitamins A and C, this formula is great for hydrating skin while improving its elasticity.
Dark Spots and Hyper-pigmentation
Have you ever injured your skin and anxiously waited for it to heal, only to be greeted with skin discoloration – well, sis you’re not alone. Dark spots and hyperpigmentation in black skin are caused by an over-production of melanin when injured. The good news – there are ways to prevent and treat skin discoloration. Use sunscreen daily! Yes. You read that correctly. Exposure to the sun can induce skin darkening and spots. Try using BlackSkin.com’s Dark Spot Prevention Sunscreen SPF 30 after cleansing skin every day for best results. This non-greasy sunscreen applies lightly and keeps your skin clear and healthy. Eczema
Eczema is a skin condition that causes severe itchy, dry and cracked skin. It can be caused by environmental factors, allergens and/or family history. While the condition doesn’t discriminate, it’s not a coincidence that black skin is more susceptible to eczema. In fact, according to The National Health and Nutrition Survey, 19.3 percent of African – American children have eczema (atopic dermatitis) compared to 16.1 percent of white children and 7.8 percent of Asian children. In addition to being more prone to skin condition, the effects of it are more acute. To ensure your skin is properly hydrated and moisturized, using a gentle cleanser and moisturizer every day is ideal. Tendresse + Sage Honey Bunch soap is enriched with Honey, Shea Butter and Coconut oil that moisturizes and gently cleanses without harsh chemicals that strip skin of its natural oils. Following up with a moisturizer, such as Carmella Marie’s Cocoa Butter Cream, fortified with organic coconut and avocado oil to hydrate skin and improve its moisture retention, will leave your skin feeling smooth and soft. Do you suffer from any of the above-mentioned conditions? Do you need to improve the every-day maintenance of your skin? Well, it’s not too late to start. Tell us some of your biggest skin woes in the comments below.