Different Skin Color Calls for Different Skincare

Different Skin Color
Calls for Different Skincare

 

Different skin colors mean not just a difference in appearance but also different physiological properties of the skin. The different properties of skin require a different approach to skin health and skincare routines. In particular, Black skin has unique properties in terms of its structure and sebum production. In this article, we’ll take a look at the characteristics of Black skin and consider how to address Black consumers’ unique needs.

 

 

Factor #1: Natural sun protection

Melanin is the pigment that determines the color of your skin, hair, and eyes. Black skin has a darker color because it has a higher amount of melanin, and the melanosomes (intracellular organelles that store melanin) are not only larger but also higher in number. Melanin is responsible for protecting the skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays, and Black skin is more effectively protected from UV rays due to its high melanin content. This is why skin cancer is relatively uncommon for the black when compared to other ethnicities. Melanoma is reported to be about 20 times more common in Caucasian skin than in Black skin.

Your Takeaway – Should Still Wear Sunscreen

Research suggests the darkest skin colors have a sun protection factor of about SPF 13. That’s far below the SPF 30 recommended by dermatologists for outdoor activity, so you’ll still need sunscreen when you’re outdoors. It’s also important to use sunscreen daily, as skin cancers in African Americans are often detected in later stages. According to the American Skin Cancer Foundation, daily use of sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 can reduce the risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, by 50 percent.

 

 

Factor #2: Slow aging with thick dermis and high collagen density

Hollywood actresses Halle Berry and Nicole Kidman are 66 and 67 years old, respectively. While they are similar in age, the difference in fine lines and elasticity of their skin is very noticeable at first glance, which is why we often see media coverage about the astonishingly slower aging of Black skin. Because Black skin typically has a thicker dermis, it ages more slowly than other races and tends to show fewer signs of aging, such as wrinkles. Black skin is also characterized by a higher density of collagen, which makes it more elastic. Collagen density is lower in Asians, and even lower in Caucasians.

vibrantdermatology.com

Your Takeaway – Moisturizing over anti-aging

The surface of Black skin is relatively thick, making it hard for moisture to penetrate deep into the skin, which can lead to dryness. Adequate hydration is necessary to maintain the skin’s important role as a barrier, which will lead to improved elasticity and health in skin. Oil-rich anti-aging products are not an effective way to slow down the aging of Black skin and are rather to cause breakouts. Focusing on moisture retention with a frequent application of lightweight hydrating cream, especially when the weather is hot, can go a long way. You can add oils or protectants to prevent surface moisture from evaporating when the weather turns cold and dry.

 

 

Factor #3: Frequent breakouts due to active sebaceous glands

Black skin has more active sebaceous glands, so it tends to be more oily. According to dermatologists, natural sebum has the positive function of preventing evaporation, which helps preserve moisture in the stratum corneum and creates hydrated, glowing skin, and reduces the harmful rays of the sun. However, excessive secretion can lead to acne or oily skin problems. Asian skin usually has a medium level of sebaceous gland activity, while Caucasian skin produces less sebum and is more prone to dryness.

Your Takeaway – Exfoliating is essential for healthy, clear skin

Dead skin cells can clog pores and increase sebum production, which can lead to a variety of skin problems, including itchiness, inflammation, and acne. Exfoliation can help prevent these problems and support the skin’s natural regeneration process. By removing dead skin cells, new cells are produced more quickly, and the skin stays healthy and elastic. It’s important to exfoliate regularly to lay the solid foundation for your skin care regimen.

 

 

Factor #4: Hyperpigmentation and scarring

Black skin is more likely to develop pigmentation (hyperpigmentation) as wounds heal. Keloidal scars, which are caused by excess collagen production at the site of skin damage, are more common in African Americans.

Your Takeaway – Wound care and topical oils

Genetics play a critical role here, so the best approach is mitigation. It’s always a good idea to pay attention to the health of your skin and be sensitive to wounds. Oils strengthen the skin’s barrier, protecting it from external irritants such as inflammation and infection. They also help to relieve and soothe skin irritation, are useful for dry or sensitive skin, and reduce itching or inflammation.

 

 

Editor’s Tip

Across industries, many mainstream products developed for people with light skin have been used without much pushback for a long time. That’s probably why the basic understanding of Black skin feels new. However, there is a growing movement by companies to change the commonly accepted notion of “baseline.” Beauty supplies’ main customers are African Americans, so you should think proactively about this and offer a variety of tailored products, which can be a great marketing move.

Crayola, the famous company that makes the crayons that kids use to color at school and home, has released Colors of the World, that includes a variety of skin colors, expanding its single “flesh” tint. It was created to reflect a wide range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds and allow children to freely express their own skin color. It is expected to help kids recognize and respect diversity in themselves and others, and to develop realistic and creative thinking.

Band-Aid, found in many households’ medicine cabinets, has launched a dark-colored bandage. Band-aids were only available in light skin tones, making them stand out for people with darker skin tones. Praised for its social inclusivity and diversity, the Band-Aid products have many reviews written by Black moms who bought them for their children.

 

 

 

BUSINESS By HEEJIN SONG
BNB 매거진 2024년 8월호 ©bnbmag.com