We all have different skin types: some more sensitive, some with more collagen, and some thicker with many variations of colors depending on our ethnicity, miscegenation, genetic, and environmental conditions.
Darker skin contains more of what we call melanin, it's a pigment that gives skin a darker color which makes it have more natural protection from ultraviolet(UV) radiation. While it has this extra protection, it can actually be more susceptible to pigmentation problems.
Here we share 5 TIPS to help keep your beautiful skin looking healthy!
1- Cleanse, Moisturize & Exfoliate Often
Cleansing, moisturizing, and exfoliating should be a part of everyone’s skincare routine! Make sure you cleanse and moisturize daily. This will help your skin look bright and shiny and to stay hydrated. You want to ensure that the shower temperature isn’t too hot as this can dry out your skin. Also, drying off with a clean towel, and patting your face dry (don’t rub!) will help keep your skin looking its best.
Did you know that darker skin can lose moisture faster than other skins with less melanin? Crazy, right? For that reason, we advise using moisturizing products that contain humectants as they can help keep moisture in the skin longer. Moisturizes with fragrances can irritate your beautiful skin, so those are best avoided. Be careful using scrubs or really abrasive exfoliants as those can also irritate your skin.
2- Look After Your Diet
You’ve heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” Well, in regards to your skin, this is SO true! Eating healthy is a key factor in the condition of your skin. Depending on what you eat, certain foods can make your skin drier, brighter, more moisturized, etc. This means that when you are eating the right foods, it shows! But it goes the other way too, if you aren’t nourishing your body with great things, your skin gives it away.
We advise you to limit processed and sugary foods and be mindful of your alcohol consumption.
If you struggle with your regular eating, try to make simple changes like consuming more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, protein(fish, legumes, etc), and natural oils like olive oil, almond oil, and avocados.
If you have eczema or other skin conditions, we advise you to talk to a doctor and analyze which is the best food intake for your specific situation. Eating the right things can really make a big impact in your skin health and life.
3- Use The Sunscreen As An Ally
A lot of people say that darker skin is stronger and naturally protected from the sun and that it doesn't burn. This is actually a myth! Finding the right sunscreen protection for your skin color/type is extremely important in making sure your skin stays healthy. We all need to be mindful of the effects of too much sun.
Ideally, applying sunscreen all year round is the goal. Especially if you live in a warm area where you might be spending more time outside. Even on rainy and cloudy days, your skin may need protection from the sun! And, don’t forget how powerful those sun rays can be bouncing off bright snow in the winter.
SUNLESS TAN FOR FACE & BODY PRODUCT
4- Keep an eye out for hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation can arise as a result of an inflammatory skin condition such as eczema, acne, or psoriasis, and can get worse by being exposed to UV rays.
If you have more melanin in your skin, your hyperpigmentation spots will in turn be darker too. The first step to managing hyperpigmented skin is to find the source. Then, you can identify a way to treat. To reduce the appearance of existing dark spots, people can use specialized products such as products that include the following ingredients: Retinoids, Hydroquinone, Kojic acid, and Vitamin C.
5- Be aware of your stress levels
Stress can really affect your health and your skin tends to be the first to show signs of said stress. Stress can cause acne breakouts, cold sores, and unhealthy looking skin. Plus, usually stress can lead to lack of sleep and that is never good for your skin. It is the largest organ of the body and it requires such attention!
It’s important to take care of your emotional, mental, as well as physical health so you can try to keep your stress level at a minimum. Enjoying your free time, having a steady working routine, making sure you nourish your hobbies, practice your breathing, exercise, and meditate if you feel like it suits you.
Wait a minute, It’s Valentine’s Month!
Even though Valentine’s day has passed, the whole month of February is a great time to focus on love! This the season for sharing love with those around us. If you have a significant other, our massage oil will be a hit! We’ve prepared a mixture of natural oils of avocado and wheat germ to provide the perfect slip for both light and deep massages for the face and body.
MASSAGE OIL for healing and alleviating dry skin on hands, feet, & body.