Skincare for black women used to be an uphill battle. Most brands had products formulated for people with lighter skin. Today, though, things are changing, but when you are building a skincare routine for the first time, the number of products out in the market can still be intimidating.
There are various serums, creams, and moisturizers you can use, all of which have unique ingredients that address different aspects of skincare. Even if you have clear skin, it's not enough to stick with cleansing, toning, and moisturizing—you need to incorporate items like sunscreen and skin serums.
Skin serums are highly concentrated liquids made up of tiny molecules designed to go where creams and lotions cannot. Serum molecules penetrate deeper into the skin and deliver supplements that promote skin health. Keep reading to learn more about serums!
Two Types of Skin Serums
Generally speaking, there are two types of skin serums—cell regulators and antioxidants. Antioxidants reduce the concentration of free radicals in the skin, which keeps collagen degradation at bay. Ingredient lists of antioxidant serums often contain Vitamin C, B3, and E. These have small molecular weights, which help them penetrate the skin quickly. Vitamin C helps the skin produce collagen, Vitamin B3 helps with cell regeneration, and Vitamin E has anti-inflammatory properties.
Cell regulators like retinol and peptides directly influence collagen metabolism. This type of serum contains Vitamin A, or retinol, which fights free radicals, increases cell turnover and improves the skin's overall texture. The choice of whether to get a retinol-based or Vitamin C-based serum should depend on your skin type.
When you're looking for the best skincare products for black skin, though, you might get tripped up by slight distinctions like these. Is it better for black women to use Vitamin C or retinol-based serums? It depends. Darker skin is prone to discoloration, so using serums with skin brighteners like Vitamin C and B3 would help. However, some types of retinol, especially gentler formulations, are also suitable for dark skin.
Serums, Lotions, and Creams: What's the Difference?
Most serums are water-based. They feel light and non-greasy on the skin and do not contain thickening or lubricating ingredients. Instead of locking existing moisture in, they penetrate the skin and deliver nutrients to it. Meanwhile, creams and lotions can be thick and heavy. Most of them form a barrier on your skin. If you have yet to form a skincare routine and have mature or dry skin, you will benefit significantly from serum.
Why Incorporate Skin Serums in Your Routine
Serums are very efficient. A little goes a long way—since they are highly concentrated liquids, you only need a few drops for the entire face. They are also highly effective—serums reduce fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles. Best of all, they're accessible. You don't need a prescription for serums. They are also non-invasive and safe, and you do not need to see a dermatologist before using them.
Skincare 101: A Simple Routine For Beginners
The order of applying your skincare products matters. Just like how you won't use a disinfectant spray on a dirty floor, you need to clean your face before applying substances that would seal in water and nutrients. Here is a simple four-step skincare routine to start!
- Wash your face with a cleanser. Cleansers remove dirt, excess oils, leftover makeup, and products. Whenever possible, go for pH-balanced cleansers.
- Use an alcohol-free toner to balance your skin's pH levels and prep the surface for the serum. Toners remove excess oil and stubborn dirt that cleansers cannot.
- Put two to three drops of serum on your fingertips and apply it to damp skin. Massage it gently and wait for five minutes for the skin to absorb the serum completely.
- Cap off your skincare regimen with a moisturizer with sun protection. This last step is vital to keeping the nutrients locked in.
Conclusion
Skincare routines are a must-have, especially for people with mature, dry, oily, or acne-prone skin. Knowing how to take care of your skin involves familiarizing yourself with the different skincare products available, the uses of each, and how they will interact with your skin type. Once you establish a routine, you can kiss wrinkles and hyperpigmentation goodbye!
Uncover your most beautiful you with black skincare products from Marla Rene Beauty & Co. As a black-owned beauty brand in Midlothian, VA, I am passionate about finding natural skincare solutions for women of color and creating products that address their needs. Browse our shop or take our skin assessment quiz to learn more!
