We know that each skin type has its own care requirements. But have you ever wondered if you need to consider your skin tone when curating your routine?
Research has shown that the amount of melanin in one’s skin can impact its characteristics. This means that melanin-rich skin can benefit from different skincare products and treatments. Below we’ll be sharing exactly how melanin rich skin differs from fair skin, as well as tips and tricks for tailoring your routine to your darker skin tone.
The Unique Characteristics of Melanin-Rich Skin (& How They Impact Your Skincare Routine)
It’s more prone to hyperpigmentation and dark spots
Melanin-rich skin mostly thrives in the sun. You probably love the fact that you don’t have to deal with sunburns like those with light skin, but that doesn’t mean you’re immune to sun damage. It just turns up in other ways.
Dark skin is more susceptible to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or the appearance of dark spots as a reaction to being inflamed.
Melanin is already in abundance within those with darker skin tones, so when its production is triggered by hormones or skin-related trauma, it’s easy for the skin cells to go into overdrive and produce even more melanin.
You may want to invest in skincare products that tackle hyperpigmentation if you often notice dark spots on your skin. Look for ingredients that naturally promote an even skin tone, such as kojic acid, niacinamide, glycolic acid, and vitamin C.
Also, don’t forget your SPF! Excessive sun exposure is one of the leading causes of hyperpigmentation, so even if you don’t burn you’ll still need to protect yourself from the less obvious forms of sun damage.
It’s thicker than fair skin
Being thick-skinned comes naturally to those with darker tones. Melanin-rich skin has more layers than fair skin, which means you’ll need to approach moisturizing a bit differently. Your products will need to be able to penetrate through all of your skin’s layers, so look for water-based products with ultra hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides.
And while all skin tones may suffer from dryness during the winter, melanin-rich skin is especially susceptible to moisture loss in colder climates. You won’t just need to step up your moisturizing game; you’ll need to ensure your other products and rituals don’t trigger excessive dryness. Stick to gentle cleansers and wash with lukewarm water to retain as much of your skin’s moisture barrier as possible.
It has a higher lipid content
Lipids are natural, healthy fats found within the skin barrier. They’re essential for maintaining skin health, and contribute to greater firmness, elasticity, and tone. The high lipid content within melanin-rich skin helps it maintain its youthful glow for longer, but it also makes it more prone to acne.
If you have found yourself struggling with blemishes and breakouts, you may want to look for acne-fighting skincare ingredients like salicylic acid and sebum regulating niacinamide.
Melanin-rich skin is beautiful and comes with a lot of benefits, but it also requires specific care to remain hydrated, even, and glowing. Make sure your skincare routine is working for your unique needs by using products that work with your melanin!
