Skin is multipurpose. It regulates body temperature, keeps out germs and pests, and enhances touch.
Skin has basic functions, yet it also differs visually.
Your skin tone might effect wrinkle and sunspot development. It may also cause hyperpigmentation, or darker skin.
People of the same race might have different skin tones. Anna Chien, MD, a dermatology professor at Johns Hopkins, believes race and ethnicity seldom influence skin tone.
“Skin kinds” range from 1 to 6. Type 1 skin burns and never tans. Midtones are light brown, tan quickly, and seldom burn. Deeply pigmented Skin type 6 never burns. Fitzpatrick skin typing is named after the doctor who invented it. It depends on skin pigmentation and sun exposure.
Three experts discuss how skin tone affects skincare.
sunburn
Sun damage, including wrinkles and sunspots, is called “photoaging”
This happens “a bit faster” among lighter-skinned individuals, adds Chien. “They’re prone to skin cancer.”
Darker skin tones “delay photoaging” They have a decreased risk of skin cancer, says Julia Mhlaba, MD, of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. This pigment is sun-protective.
Lower skin cancer risk doesn’t equal zero danger. Dermatologist Shani Francis says any skin may have skin cancer.
Misconceptions that persons with darker skin couldn’t acquire skin cancer might delay or misdiagnose the disease. Chien said dark-skinned people may get skin cancer. Because this isn’t typically discussed, skin cancer may be diagnosed much later.
In persons with darker skin, malignancies may arise “where patients aren’t usually exposed to light,” Mhlaba explains.
Sunscreen is essential
Every day, rain or shine, all skin tones need SPF 30 sunscreen to prevent skin cancer and delay photoaging.
“We continually advise sunscreen since even persons with darker skin [and] those who declare ‘I cannot burn; I often tan’ still experience skin problems,” adds Chien.
Chien recommends using at least SPF 60 while outside for lengthy durations. Reapply regularly if active, sweating, swimming, or wet.
Experts say zinc oxide or titanium dioxide physical blockers give the greatest protection. These cosmetics aren’t always elegant on darker skin.
It may generate white coating on dark skin, adds Chien. She suggests tinted sunscreens that match skin tone.
Tinted sunscreen may be beneficial. Longer wavelengths beyond UV rays are more hazardous to darker-skinned persons, adds Chien. She speculates that the hue “may defend against some of the different wavelengths.”
Sunscreen
Sunscreen isn’t enough. “Sunscreens aren’t ideal,” adds Chien. Reapply and mix with additional measures.
This includes wearing sunglasses and long-sleeved clothes, avoiding peak sun, and seeking shade. “Multi-modal solar protection,” she says.
Don’t rely on cosmetics SPF alone, adds Chien. They put on a lot of cosmetics in the laboratories, so it does not look like real life.
Retinol and Retinoids
Sunscreen and moisturizer slow aging. Using tretinoin or retinol may also help.
These are vitamin A compounds that may be bought over-the-counter or recommended by a dermatologist. “They cure acne and more. They reduce pigmentation. They may also smooth fine lines and prevent wrinkles.
Darker skin tones may take higher-strength retinoids but must start gently, explains Mhlaba. Skin may be more prone to discoloration if they are inflamed, she explains.
Advice: Start by applying a modest quantity of retinol or retinoid to your face every few days. Moisturizer may soothe skin inflammation.
Hyperpigmentation
Sunscreen for the face reduces photoaging and prevents hyperpigmentation, explains Mhlaba.
Mhlaba thinks hyperpigmentation is more frequent among individuals of color.
Hyperpigmentation may be caused by acne scars, dermatitis, trauma, and melasma. Melasma causes dark blotches on the face.
Sun exposure may aggravate hyperpigmentation; use sunscreen. Vitamin C serum, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide help alleviate hyperpigmentation, Mhlaba says.
Dermatologists may give oral hydroquinone-based medicines for melasma.
Dryness
Dry skin is universal. “On darker complexions, parched skin appears almost white, which creates a more strong difference. Francis says it’s clearer. Shedding skin causes dryness.
Dry dark skin might benefit from a “nice, thick moisturizer,” advises Chien.
Don’t judge a product by its packaging. Francis argues skin thickness matters more. She recommends ceramides, glycerin, castor oil, petroleum jelly, and hempseed oil.
After bathing, apply moisturizer on wet skin. She believes it keeps skin hydrated.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity affects all skin tones. Chien recommends dull items. Avoid antimicrobial, perfumed products.
She advises keeping skincare products basic, using a gentle face wash, a nondescript moisturizer, and a daily sunscreen.
Chien says people with sensitive skin may spot-test a product behind their ear or upper inner arm.
She advises against using several serums or anti-aging treatments. Many are irritants.
Mhlaba thinks exfoliating with sensitive skin is patient-specific. Physical exfoliants are severe. If you’re using a chemical exfoliant, start carefully and build up to everyday use. Depending on the product, once a week may be adequate.”
She recommends salicylic and glycolic acid. “Many creams contain it. This exfoliates well.”
