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Black facial- Know the black skin

Treating black pigmented skin the right way is honestly misunderstood. Due to a lack of information, people end up doing more harm than good to their delicate skin. The funniest misconception I hear is black skin is thought to be very rough and tough, well in actuality it’s the opposite. It is quite sensitive and should be treated carefully when choosing products or facials.

Beautiful black girl in a picture

What happens when you mishandle black melanated skin with the wrong products, treatments, or facials?

You traumatize your skin cells & as a result, you can develop keloids, scarring, hyperpigmentation, dark patches, rough skin texture, or just ripped irritated skin.

Understand darkly pigmented skin types!

All the positives first

  • The high melanin concentration in the skin cells protects the skin against harmful UV rays and skin cancer. Reportedly, skin cancer in black people is 25 times lesser compared to white racial-ethnic groups.
  • The Stratum Corneum (the protective outer layer of the skin which acts as a barrier between our skin and the outside environment) of the black dark skin is very solid. It doesn’t allow unwanted materials & bacteria to enter the skin & excessive loss of water to exit from the skin which results in delayed wrinkles and fine lines compared to fair-toned skin.

Well, that sounds very pleasant but let’s see the flip side of dark skin too

All the negatives of dark skin tones!

  • Hyperpigmentation issues in darker tones are a big common problem. Tyrosinase (the enzyme which handles the production of Melanin) activity is more active in darker skin than Caucasian skin. Because of this, any bumps in the skin like acne, cuts, or bites can leave potential scarring or pigmentation.
  • Melasma, Vitiligo, Keloid, Pseudofolliculitis barbae, and Dermatosis papulose nigra are all really annoying skin conditions that mostly target black or dark skin types.
  • Don’t pick on scars or acne pls! It’s tougher to treat even a simple pimple mark on dark skin than on lighter skin. If it itches a lot, gently wipe your face with a muslin cloth dipped in warm water.

one of the black skin problems- keloid

Keloid

one of the black skin problems- Melasma

Melasma

One of the black skin problems- Vitiligo

Vitiligo

What products should you consider for treating scars & hyperpigmentation?

Tranexamic serum, Retinoids, Kojic acid, Alpha Arbutin, Bakuchiol, Azelaic acid, Lactic acid, Mandelic Acid, Vitamin C, Licorice root face mask, Chemical peels & Sunscreen with SPF minimum 30-50.

Extra Tips

  • Gentle. For your skin type, remember this word. From choosing all your skin products to facials or treatments. Always start with very low concentration.
  • For facials, your esthetician should be experienced in handling dark skin. Not everyone knows how to handle your melanated skin type. Check all the reviews, ask them a zillion things & then too, start with a basic treatment process (pls don’t jump on getting extractions on the first visit). If you trust them enough, book the second visit.

What are the facial or treatment options best suited for dark skin?

A picture of a black skin girl

Salt Facial

  • This is a non-invasive skin renewal therapy that includes 3 steps, all-natural sea salt exfoliation, aesthetic ultrasound & LED light therapy to revive and rejuvenate pigmented skin types.
  • It reduces the oiliness in your skin while at the same time balancing your body’s oil production.
  • It improves the overall skin tone & hydrates the tissues
  • It also works as an antiseptic and kills bacteria present in acne and breakouts.
  • It gives relief to people with eczema and psoriasis.
  • Safe for even sensitive skin types

Hydra Facial

  • It is again a resurfacing treatment that starts by cleansing, peeling, extracting, hydrating, infusing, and protecting the skin. It includes 6 steps
  • It works amazingly for dry skin, uneven skin tone, oily-congested skin, enlarged pores, age spots, blackheads, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation.
  • Just one treatment of hydra facial can be superb for your skin according to the reports.
  • Who shouldn’t get this facial? If you have severe acne, are pregnant, or have rosacea, skip Hydra facial.

Oxygen Facial

  • Oxygen facial helps darker skin by infusing the skin with nourishing vitamins and minerals that protect against hyperpigmentation
  • It uses oxygen under high amounts of pressure to apply serums like vitamins c, e, peptides, botanicals & hyaluronic acid to the skin.
  • Experience dramatic age-defying results, visibly smooth skin, calmed acne, and radiant hydrated skin.
  • Results are exceptional and instant

Photo Facial

  • Photo facial treatment uses short blasts of high-intensity light to result in younger-looking even toned firm skin.
  • It literally reverses the sun damage we all are and have been a victim of.
  • This facial results in anti-aging benefits by increasing collagen and elastin if the skin
  • Best for people with sun-damaged skin, rosacea, freckles, pigmented lesions & age spots

Yag Laser

  • Yag laser is a powerful resurfacing treatment for moderately advanced signs of premature skin aging, vascular lesions, discoloration, melasma, tattoo removal, and sun-damaged skin
  • Yag Laser technique is also used for body hair removal.
  • It is FDA-approved.
  • 1065 nm is a safe wavelength to use
  • Side effects- Some mild redness or swelling can be there, b u it can subside within a day or two. Just stay indoors for 1-2 days to avoid any sun damage

Pico Laser

  • This non-invasive skin treatment addresses almost all skin concerns like premature skin aging problems, brown spots, decreased elastin production, sun damage, ink removal, and acne scarring.
  • It works by sending ultra-short pulses of energy to the targeted problem areas. The laser’s intense impact shatters the problematic skin particles. These are then naturally eliminated by the body.
  • This laser is different from the rest, it turns the intense laser energy into a moderate pressure. The energy contraction activates collagen production and increment in elastin production of skin cells without pain.
  • The benefits of this treatment will start showing as your body’s natural healing process kicks in.

Microdermabrasion

  • It’s a minimally invasive procedure that renews the old outer uneven, thick skin by using an applicator with an abrasive surface to gently sand your skin resulting in the thickening of collagen, firm & youthful skin & even-toned skin.
  • Stop using any chemical peels, waxing, tanning creams, and sun exposure esp. 3 days prior to the treatment.
  • Side effects might include mild swelling and redness. They will go away in a few hours if the procedure is done by some experienced esthetician or dermatologist.

Micro-needling

  • A procedure that uses tiny, electrically powered sterilized needles to prick the skin to treat scars, enlarged pores & wrinkles. These micro-injuries don’t actually leave scars but rather stimulate the new collagen in the skin.
  • For dark skin tones, this is a mind-blowing treatment as it does not deliver heat to the skin like in lasers. As a result, generally, dark people with melasma & pigmentation issues can opt for this without worrying about worsening pigmentation problems.
  • Doctors generally apply topical anesthetic creams before starting the procedure

Chemical peels

  • Before trying anything else for your dark spots and pigmentation issues, go for the easiest & quickest procedure in your skincare which is chemical peels.
  • They can be done at home (with extreme precautions) and can also be done by your esthetician or dermatologist for more potency.
  • The ordinary peeling solution‘ is a good product. It has shown drastic results in people’s skin with proper usage.
  • It goes into the deep layers of the skin and kills all the dead skin cells and bacteria. It exfoliates the accumulated gunk and debris.
  • Chemical peels also rapidly increase skin cell regeneration at double speed making skin plump, youthful, and softer.
  • Don’t leave the peel on more than what the time says on the product.
  • Don’t use it near your eyes
  • Always patch test on your arm or back of the ear.
 

Natural soothing Ingredients recommended for Black Skin 

For smooth, glass-like skin; here is the list of clean and healthy skin ingredients that can help enhance your skin more:

Aloe VeraAloe Vera can be used both topically and orally to take in all the benefits. Aloe vera is a succulent plant species that is rich in antioxidants & hence speeds up the regeneration of damaged skin and hence also known as a healer. Aloe Vera helps fade dark spots, tighten sagging skin, and also helps with mild acne. It is mildly astringent in nature (it has zinc in it). Astringent is a chemical that causes the tightening of skin cells & other body tissues. They tighten pores and dry out oils. Astringent is also slightly acidic & bitter in taste. Hence when you apply Aloe Vera on the face, you get that tightening or perhaps a shrinking feeling of the skin cells. You can apply a layer of Moisturizer on it to subdue that uncomfortable tightness. Buying option: Aloe Vera 

Centella Asiatica Extract: Centella Asiatica is an herb also known as Gotu Kola. Centella Asiatica extract is high in antioxidants. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties which makes it ideal for improving skin health and treating skin issues like premature skin signs like fine lines and wrinkles. The Anti-inflammatory properties of the herb help in soothing, calming, and healing any wounds or general skin irritation. It also helps a lot in strengthening skin barrier function to prevent any moisture loss. Buying Option: Centella Asiatica Extract 

Raw Honey: Raw honey is highly moisturizing and healing in nature. It has anti-bacterial properties that help in treating mild acne, or other skin infections. Anti-inflammatory properties in Raw honey help with skin irritation caused by Psoriasis, Eczema or etc. It brings out the glow in the skin and tightens the open pores. Raw honey should honestly be a mandatory ingredient in your DIY face mask every week. Buying Option: Raw Honey 

Nigella Sativa Seed Extract: Nigella Sativa Seed extract is also known as Black seed oil. Black seed oil is an herbal ingredient derived from the plant Nigella Sativa. It is packed with Vitamin A and Amino Acids which help to increase collagen production and Elastin in the skin. Nigella Sativa Seed Extract is rich in Plant acids and essential fatty acids that help in strengthening the skin’s lipid barrier that prevents any water or moisture loss from the skin. The Anti- Microbial properties in it make it very helpful for people with skin conditions like Psoriasis and Eczema in treating rashes, or itching. Buying Option: Nigella Sativa Seed Extract 

Fig and Blackberry Fruit Extract: Fig and Blackberry are both very rich in antioxidants that help protect skin from free radical damage and premature aging. Applying organic fig extract or blackberry fruit extract every day in the form of a DIY mask or eating them raw, can tremendously help you with great skin health. Both fruit extracts can brighten, and moisturize your skin from within. Buying Option: Fig ExtractBlackberry Extract 

Eclipta Prostata Leaf Extract: It is a non-fragrant plant that is a member of the Sunflower family and it belongs to Korea. It is also known as False Daisy. Eclipta Prostata Leaf Extract is a natural emollient that helps soften rough or damaged skin. It also has anti-aging benefits for the skin. It helps in improving the skin’s elasticity, fine lines, and wrinkles. Buying Option: Eclipta Prostata Leaf Extract 

Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract: It is a natural ingredient derived from the root of Elm tree. Ulmus Davidiana Root extract has been found to inhibit the production of melanin which can help to treat dark spots, pigmentation and improve skin tone. Buying Option: Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract 

Amaranthus Caudatus seed Extract: It is a great ingredient to treat dryness and aging signs of the skin. Amaranthus Caudatus seed extract is derived from the seeds of Amaranth flowers. It is rich in squalene and unsaturated fatty acids that help support the healthy skin barrier function. Buying Option: Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Extract 

Product Recommendations for Black Skin

Cleanser: Klairs Gentle Black Facial Cleanser: This gentle black facial cleanser from this lovely Korean brand Klairs is made from truffles, blackberries, black beans, and black cumin extract. It has just the perfect PH of 5.5 which is needed for removing impurities from the skin but enough for keeping the moisture for balanced skin health. This Klairs black facial cleanser is an amazing choice for black skin for everyday use. Buying option: Cleanser 
 

Toner: Good Molecules Brightening Toner: My personal favorite product! It’s a beautiful composition of Niacinamide with Vitamin C, Alpha Arbutin, and Licorice root extract. Niacinamide controls the excess oil production and balances the PH of the skin perfectly while the other ingredients help control the excess melanin production in the skin cells and fight off the free radicals to give you that bright glowing skin. Buying Option: Toner 

Serum: Kojic acid, Alpha Arbutin, and Tranexamic Acid: Specifically, these 3 ingredients work on controlling the excess production of Melanin and hence they work wonderfully for black skin to treat hyperpigmentation or Melasma. Buying options: Kojic acidArbutinTranexamic 

Moisturizer: La Roche Posay: Contains Ingredients like Niacinamide, Ceramides, And thermal spring water. It is one of my favorite skincare brands. This moisturizer is lightweight yet very hydrating for long hours and because of the ceramides, it does an excellent job in keeping the skin’s barrier function strong. Reviews have shown that it suits even people with sensitive skin types. Buying Option: Moisturizer  

Sunscreen: La Roche Posay: The same moisturizer comes with SPF 30 also, perfect for everyday use, and absolutely no white cast. Buying option: Sunscreen  

Choose your products or service provider carefully to take care of that lovely skin tone. Love~ Beauty Stroll

References 

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By Aayushi S
By Aayushi S
Aayushi is a New York based freelance writer and a content strategist. She is a computer science graduate, a health and skincare fanatic and is also the founder of “Beauty Stroll “. She aims to make science-backed skincare easy to understand for her readers.

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