People have different shades of skin because of the amount and types of melanin their skin produces. People with darker skin are often found living closer to the equator, but it is not the sole determining factor. Genetics also plays a role in the color of skin. And although the skin may have different shades, they still share the same needs and concerns.
Still, there are slight differences among skin that require different kinds of attention and products.
What Sets the Darker Skin Different
People with a higher level of melanin have a darker complexion. It is the skin’s way of protecting itself from damage from the sun. There are so many different skin shades and types that the Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype categorized them into groups. The Fitzpatrick Skin Prototype is the most commonly used classification system grouping the skin color into the following categories:
Skin Type I
- Pale white skin, blond or red hair, blue or green eyes.
- People under this category always burn under the sun.
- They also do not get tans.
Skin Type II
- People with fair skin and blue eyes.
- They burn quickly and tan poorly.
Skin Type III
- People with darker white skin.
- They tan only after an initial burn.
Skin Type IV
- They have light brown skin.
- They only burn lightly and tan quickly.
Skin Type V
- They have brown skin.
- They do not burn quickly, but they can get darker easily.
Skin Type VI
- People with dark brown or black skin.
- They never burn, but they always tan darkly.
Issues of Melanin-Rich Skin
People under the skin type three to six are considered people with skin of color. These people may have more protection from the sun, but they still possess some issues exclusive to melanin-rich skin.
- They are more prone to getting hyperpigmentation and more raised scarring. Many factors, such as hormones, sun damage, lifestyle, skin injury, and acne, can lead to uneven skin colors. The challenge for people with darker skin is how to address this type of pigmentation. Usually, it needs different combinations of ingredients—products with concentrated vitamin C, arbutin, niacinamide, retinol, and bakuchiol.
- People with darker skin have naturally darker circles in their eyes due to the production of melanin. This skin problem is challenging to correct. However, there are ways you to prevent it from darkening further. Always protect your skin from sun exposure. You can also use products with the same ingredients mentioned above.
- They have lower ceramides in their skin. People with this condition experience dryness, sensitivity, and skin inflammation. As always, skincare products can solve this problem. Find the most effective moisturizer or skin serum for you. Make sure they are rich in antioxidants and skin-restoring ingredients.
- People assume that people with richer melanin levels are thoroughly protected from the sun. It might be true sometimes, but this type of skin does not stop you from experiencing skin problems that people with lighter skin color also experience. More importantly, you still need to use your sunscreen. Consider finding one that could alleviate your skin problems. A mineral sunscreen or a sheer-tinted SPF would work best for your skin color.
Conclusion
Each person’s skin is unique, from the color to the thickness and type. You should know what kind of skin you have to find the right skincare products. That is how you achieve good skincare habits.
If you have African-American skin and are looking for skincare products that work for black skin best, you can check our products. Marla Rene Beauty & Co. is dedicated to bringing eco-conscious and cruelty-free products that deliver while also empowering women.
