Tips to Care for Melanin-Rich Skin
Skin differs from person-to-person, each requiring specific needs. With that different skin, routines are beneficial to different skin tones. Much of this is due to the structure and function of the skin.
When it comes to darker tone skin, it produces more melanin than skin lighter in shade. One of the challenges of diverse skin tones is being susceptible to the effects of inflammation and injury - often hyperpigmentation. Thus, requiring specific solutions and skincare products to meet the skin's needs.
The core initiative of xo Brown Girl is to provide solutions and knowledge designed for diverse skin tones, with that, we are sharing five ways to care for melanin-rich skin.
Choose products made for your skin type
It's important to know, despite your skin tone, you should choose products for your skin type. If your skin tends to be on the dry side, you would choose products that are more hydrating and nourishing to your skin. Cleansing oils is ideal for dry skin as it cleans, it's gentle, and gives back moisture to the skin. Pairing with a rich cream to prevent moisture loss makes for an excellent choice in products for drier skin.
It should be noted that your skin "type" can change based on many factors to include, eating habits, lifestyle, or environmental. While we reference the skin to specific skin types as it is helpful when caring for your skin. We suggest you are to be mindful of how your skin behaves as it is ever-changing and adjust your routine and the products you use based on your current skin health.
Never leave home without sunscreen
While melanin has a notable benefit of protection from UV rays, adequate sun protection is always a must for everyone. Sun exposure heightens the color of existing dark spots and causes sun damage.
A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is recommended. Apply all year, with no exceptions, even on cloudy days, when you don't step outside, and during winter. Use it as the last step of your skincare routine in the AM and apply it as often as you need throughout the day.
Prevention is key
While there are solutions to treating skin challenges such as dark spots, we are always here for getting to the root of the initial problem - in this case, acne. Implementing a daily skincare routine helps to prevent the issue from getting worse or creating additional skin problems. Your skincare routine doesn't have to be complicated, a basic regimen looks like this:
- Cleanser - to remove dirt and debris
- Toner - to hydrate and balance
- Moisturizer - to lock in moisture and nutrients
- SPF - Sun protection
To take it a step further, seek an esthetician to support your skin health and current routine.
You can never have too much water
One of the best ways to hydrate your skin is to drink water, striving for at least 8 glasses a day, coupled with skin care products that include hydrators such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
Include a balanced diet
Healthy skin starts from the inside out. To provide your skin with the nutrients needed to repair itself, eating a healthy diet is important.
Include foods rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, and healthy fats. Processed foods and alcohol should be limited to improve and maintain healthy skin.
What's good to know is that caring for melanin-rich skin doesn't have to be complicated or overwhelming. Following these tips and maintaining consistency will lead you in the upward direction of healthy, glowing skin.
For more tips about skincare, check out our blog, Beyond Skin, and the xo Brown Girl's product line serving the needs of melanin-rich skin.
xo Frankie
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