RADIANT COMPLEXION: THE IDEAL ROUTINE FOR BLACK SKIN
Reading time: 7 minutes
SUMMARY
- What are the specificities of black skin?
- How to keep black skin healthy?
- What should you absolutely avoid for black skin?
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What are the specificities of black skin?
Studies show that black skin contains more active pigment cells than lighter skin tones, resulting in significantly higher melanin levels. This feature provides a built-in defense against the sun's harmful UV rays. However, it is essential to note that even with this natural protection, excessive sun exposure can lead to premature skin aging and other problems (like hyperpigmentation). Therefore, adequate sun protection with sunscreen is important for everyone, regardless of their skin type.
The unique characteristics of black skin:
Natural UV protection : The high melanin content of black skin acts as a natural sunscreen, providing effective protection against UV rays. But be careful, once again, this does not prevent you from protecting your skin, especially in summer.
Denser and resilient skin : Black and brown skin is thicker, more vascularized and more compact due to the increased production of collagen and elastin fibers. This density provides greater resistance to external factors.
The specific problems of black skin:
Climate sensitivity : Although black skin is resilient, it can be prone to dryness and dehydration in dry, cold climates. It also tends to react to external aggressions (hard water, cold, hormonal changes, stress, lack of sun, pollution, etc.) which tend to dry it out much more quickly.
Uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation : Dark spots are a fairly common concern for black skin, often caused by injuries or skin blemishes, and high levels of melanin. With combination skin being the most common skin type among black skin tones, uneven skin tone can also be a problem. Indeed, oily areas of the face tend to discolor, leading to a lack of uniformity.
Acne and blemishes : Due to increased sebum production, acne is a common problem with darker skin tones. Due to its hyperactivity and rapid thickening, black skin also has a higher tendency to visible scarring, especially after injuries or rashes.
How to keep black skin healthy?
Our best advice: Prioritize hydration
Hydration is key to maintaining the health and appearance of all skin types and this goes for black skin too. Each step of your beauty routine must incorporate maximum hydration to prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles but also imperfections. In your facial care routine, after careful cleansing (especially in the evening), opt for a hydrating toner, followed by a serum that meets the needs of your skin (vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, retinol, etc.) followed by a moisturizer. As for the composition of your cream, favor ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, argan oil and various natural oils such as almond oil, coconut oil and coconut oil. avocado, which all help to retain moisture, nourish the skin and keep it hydrated. If you have combination skin, Le beau domaine fluid cream is an excellent choice. With its light texture, it allows the skin to remain hydrated while being quickly absorbed.
Good to know : Pure oils and butters (like shea butter), applied directly to the skin, are not moisturizers. They help replenish skin lipids but lack the ability to hydrate the skin. However, you can definitely use shea butter in addition to your moisturizer to replenish your body's hydrolipidic barrier.
The first step of a good facial routine: Gentle cleansing
Rule number one is careful makeup removal and gentle cleansing. No matter your skin type, this step is crucial to maintaining healthy skin. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip the skin of its natural oils. Opt for gentle cleansing products such as cleansing milk or cleansing oil. Consider double cleansing, a two-step makeup removal technique that includes an oil phase (cleansing oil) and a water phase (gentle cleanser without sulfated surfactants). Or opt for a gentle, one-step product like Le beau domaine cleansing emulsion. When showering, you can use a shower oil or black soap for a gentler, non-irritating cleansing experience.
The right actions to avoid hyperpigmentation spots and boost your glow:
Although black skin is dense and resilient, it can still be sensitive and reactive to external factors. To maintain an even, radiant complexion and prevent pigment spots, simply apply these three main rules:
Exfoliate in moderation : Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, but it should be done with care. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a month and choose gentle exfoliants. Excessive exfoliation can irritate the skin and stimulate oil production, leading to dehydration and oily skin.
Protect your skin from the sun : Although black skin has some natural UV resistance, it is not immune to sun damage. Prolonged exposure to the sun's rays can lead to pigment spots. Therefore, using sunscreen remains essential to limit hyperpigmentation. Opt for SPF 30 or 50+ protection, even on cloudy days, and above all, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
Treat acne problems gently : Black skin tends to heal slowly and may be prone to the formation of keloids, a type of scar characterized by the overproduction of tissue around wounds. It is crucial to avoid drilling or squeezing pimples to avoid making the problem worse. Give your skin time to heal naturally, and opt for gentle skincare products based on Aloe Vera to soothe and calm irritated skin.
In the case of severe acne breakouts, it is advisable to consult a specialist dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment options.
What should you absolutely avoid for black skin?
-A skincare routine not suited to your skin type : This is a basic rule that applies to all skin types. When choosing products for your routine, pay close attention to their compatibility with the unique characteristics of your skin. Although it may look shiny in some places, that doesn't mean it's oily. Black skin tends to be combination, meaning a combination of oily and dry skin on different parts of the face. If you have any doubts, you can always consult our article on how to recognize your skin type. It is recommended to choose gentle products, preferably natural. Avoid excessively chemical skincare products and opt for those that are alcohol-free and non-comedogenic to protect the health of your skin.
-Skin lightening products : Absolutely avoid skin lightening products. Serious studies show that their components can be carcinogenic and cause dark spots. Instead, choose spot-fighting products with ingredients like glycolic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA) for gentle exfoliation. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that can help even out skin tone, and natural extracts like licorice extract and marshmallow extract can be used to reduce dark spots.
Black skin is a testimony to the diversity and uniqueness of beauty. Proper care and attention to its specific characteristics can help you achieve and maintain radiant and healthy skin. The key goals of your skincare routine should be hydration, gentleness and prevention. By following these rules and choosing suitable products, you can preserve the beauty of your skin and ensure that it thrives for many years. Remember to cherish the individuality of your skin and give it the care it deserves.
