Rich melanated skin is both beautiful and complex. From hyperpigmentation to dry skin and razor bumps, black men sometimes struggle in the skin department. With an array of products and conflicting information, implementing a skincare routine that’s right for you can be overwhelming. Since maintaining sun-kissed skin is typically not a discussion amongst black men, it’s not uncommon to pick up tips from the women in their lives. However, men and women have unique skin care needs, and copying your girlfriend’s routine may work against you. But not to worry, here are five skin care tips that will keep your skin looking so fresh, females will be asking you for advice.
Tip #1 - A Good Diet and Plenty of Water
As the saying goes, ‘you are what you eat.’ Whatever you put into your body will nourish or deplete your skin. No matter how many facials you get and creams you buy, a bad diet is the enemy of progress. The skin undergoes a constant cycle of shedding and replacement, and this process requires the proper nutrients to maintain supple, soft, and blemish-free skin. Optimise your nutrition by consuming a balanced diet of healthy fats, nuts, antioxidant-rich fruits, vegetables, and water. Your meals should contain the following vitamins and minerals:
Omega-3: Healthy fats act as a natural moisturiser; you will find omega-3 in seeds, nuts, oily fish and avocados.
Zinc: Zinc helps repair damaged skin; it is found in shellfish, seeds, nuts, poultry,
against age spots, sun damage, and skin cancer. Two to three Brazil nuts will provide you with the recommended daily amount of selenium. You can also find this mineral in broccoli, tomatoes, wheat germ, eggs, and fish.
Vitamin E: Protect the skin from cell damage by including hazelnuts, almonds, and pine nuts in your diet.
Vitamin C: Your skin needs collagen to thrive. You will find it in vitamin C-rich foods such as sweet potatoes, strawberries, papaya, oranges, kiwi, guava, broccoli, and blueberries.
Water: Keep the skin hydrated by drinking at least two litres of water per day.
Tip #2 - Wash Your Face Twice a Day
Don’t use the same soap for your body on your face. Body washes are not designed for the face and will leave your skin irritated and dry. A gentle cleansing face wash will simultaneously maintain your skin’s natural oils and provide a deep cleanse.
Tip #3 - Exfoliate 2 to 3 Times a Week
Regular exfoliation removes dead and dry skin and promotes radiance and youthfulness by unclogging pores, boosting circulation and evening skin tone. There are so many benefits to skin exfoliation there’s no space to mention them, just try it and see.
Tip #4 - Use the Right Moisturizer
According to research, black skin doesn’t retain as much moisture as lighter skin tones. Hence the reason for ashy knees and elbows; to avoid this apply moisturiser straight after washing your face. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerine contain the most effective moisture retention properties. Ointments and creams are preferable to lotions because they are not water-based. Additionally, stay away from moisturisers with fragrances because they can cause irritation.
Tip #5 - Use Sunscreen
There is a dangerous misconception within the black community that sunscreen is not necessary because the skin contains melanin which aids as natural protection from the sun. While this is true, and dark skin people are less likely to develop skin cancer than white people. Blacks are more likely to die from the condition because the symptoms are not as visible on dark skin. Experts recommend using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30
Final Thought
Consistency is key when it comes to skincare. If your skin is currently damaged, you are not going to see results overnight. But with a good diet, plenty of water, and the right products, over time, your skin will be blemish-free, lustrous, and radiant.