Yes You've "Got Melanin." But Are You Properly Taking Care of It?
With the rise of social media, online skincare communities, and self-proclaimed skincare gurus it is hard to know where exactly to get advice from. Who is a reliable source for skincare? What products should I be using? And for women of color one thing that gets ignored is that skincare routines and issues are different when you have melanin.
Differences
Ever heard the phrase "Black Don't Crack"? Well, there is some truth to it, though we see Black Hollywood starlets like Angela Bassett (61), Halle Berry (51), and Nia Long (49) managing to look the same age every decade, the reality is that melanin is a natural built-in UV protection. Essentially, the more you have the more natural protection you have from the sun which in return helps with the aging process. Even though lighter complexions are more susceptible to fine lines and wrinkles deeper skin tones are more susceptible to discoloration and hyperpigmentation.
Yes, melanin is a natural sun protectant however, it is still super important to wear SPF every day even if you're just inside the house. Just because you've never had a sunburn, they are truly awful, your skin still can be damaged by the sun's harmful UV rays and needs to be protected. To prevent dark spots and hyperpigmentation properly protecting the skin is crucial. My favorite sunscreen at the moment is Black Girl Sunscreen. It is anti-aging, moisturizing, and doesn't create a weird purple tone on your face while wearing it.
What is Hyperpigmentation:
Hyperpigmentation is darkened patches and or spots on the skin. Hyperpigmentation can be caused by a variety of factors such as sun damage, inflammation, or other skin injuries including skin injuries caused by acne. Ever popped a pimple and then notice it left behind a scar? That is hyperpigmentation. There are a variety of ways to treat hyperpigmentation from implementing products into your skincare routine that treat hyperpigmentation to professional treatments.
My Recommendations:
This $15 chemical exfoliant shrinks pores, fades away dark spots, and helps even out the texture of the skin. In ten minutes this peel will transform your skin, but be warned it is a peel and will sting when first applied. However, after a month of using this product your face will be transformed.
When I first heard about putting Vitamin C serums on my face, my first reaction was A) Why would I put this on my face & B)What is it gonna do? Vitamin C actually is pretty potent. It is an antioxidant and when applied to the skin it can: protect skin from damage caused by UV exposure, promote collagen production which provides a firmer more youthful face, and it helps to fade away dark spots and lighten hyperpigmentation. The Boscia Vitamin C with Caviar Lime Booster provides instant results and high-quality ingredients. It is cruelty-free, vegan, and free from fragrance and coloring which makes it safe for sensitive skin.
Black Girl Sunscreen
Black Girl Sunscreen
A Chemical peel reverses sun damage and other skincare imperfections. The difference between a medical-grade peel and an at-home peel is that an at-home peel is meant to treat minor signs of dullness, aging, and discoloration. A medical-grade chemical peel is to be done by a dermatologist, cosmetic surgeon, or plastic surgeon. Estheticians are only able to do a light to moderate peel, but with that being said due to the amount of risk taken with a professional peel the best option is to make an appointment with an MD. A medical-grade peel There a variety of levels for a professional-grade chemical peel and with a proper consultation a doctor will be able to help with the decision on which peel is best for you. With a peel, your skin will shed like a snake but once the process is over it will reveal a beautiful, younger-looking, smoother, and clearer face.
What to avoid:
I don't know who needs to hear this but fade creams, skin bleach, and other harmful lightening creams should NEVER be used. These topical skin lighteners can be harmful have questionable ingredients and the smell alone should be enough for people to stop using it. However, these creams still have rave reviews for helping to "treat" hyperpigmentation. It also is important that if you decide to get a professional treatment to do research. Many "doctors" make a post for social media that gains a following while simultaneously facing malpractice suits an in some cases not being board certified. Most things you need to know about a medical professional are easily accessible online due to them being a public record.
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As usual thanks for Keeping Up With Kat
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