Colored Skin Myths

While there are thousands of skin myths out there (and more each day thanks to the rise of social media virality and the unauthorized market), few are as damaging as the ones about colored skin. 

 

For example, have you ever heard that individuals with skin of color do not need to wear sunscreen? If you’ve heard it even once, it’s one time too often! These myths have been passed on from generation to generation and need to be debunked once and for all. Read on below for all the true facts!

   

UV RAYS AND SKIN DAMAGE

 

While people with darker skin tones generally have “more” protection from the sun’s damaging UV rays because of the higher melanin (natural pigment) in their skin, this does not mean they are immune to damage! 

 

So yes, skin of color can absolutely burn and develop skin cancer; it is not effectively protected from exposure to UV light. Regardless of melanin, the sun’s rays can still damage the DNA in skin cells and lead to a whole range of problems from discoloration, premature aging, and the dreaded C-word: cancer.

 

Using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on a daily basis, with reapplication throughout the day, is the best first line of defense for all skin types.

    

TIZO3 FACIAL PRIMER SUNSCREEN SPF 40 - $60

 

 

SKIN AGING

 

Ever heard the old wives’ tale that skin of color doesn’t get wrinkles? Sorry to break it to you, but it’s not true either!

 

Studies have shown that those with more melanin may be slower to show signs of aging, but absolutely no one escapes fine lines, wrinkles, and sun spots with time!

 

A good anti-aging regimen consisting of sunscreen, antioxidants like vitamin C and a collagen-boosting product, such as a retinol, is crucial to fight the first signs of skin aging. We love the Vivier Skin CE Peptides paired with the iS Clinical C Eye Serum Advance+, as well as these bestsellers:

   

SKINVACIOUS REFINE & GLOW VITAMIN C SERUM 20% - $72

 

ZO SKIN HEALTH WRINKLE TEXTURE + REPAIR 0.5% RETINOL - $196

 

SKINMEDICA RETINOL COMPLEX 1.0 - $99

 

SPECIALIZED CARE

 

While some skin care themes—like the need for sun protection—are universal, individuals with skin of color do have a few specific concerns that call for special attention. This includes darker hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone or texture; hypertrophic or keloid scars after surgery, piercings or acne; excess or dark hairs; as well as the treatment of genetic skin tags, which tend to be more common for those with darker skin tones. 

 

That being said, the good news is anybody will react favorably to the advice of skincare professionals, professional treatments as well as the use of professional products that are personalized to the skins’ needs.

   

Until next time, take care of the skin you are in!

 

The BSE Team