I think we can all agree here that one of the most beautiful things about people of color is our melanin-rich skin. But when excessive amounts of melanin form in certain areas of your skin, it can lead to hyperpigmentation, a condition in which an area of the skin looks darker than the skin around it. According to the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, hyperpigmentation is one of the top five most commonly diagnosed skin conditions in people of African descent. And while it isn’t harmful, it can be embarrassing and downright annoying for people who suffer from it.
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A dermatologist can officially diagnose your hyperpigmentation and help you determine the best skin care regimen to manage it. Check out the Skin of Color Society or the Black Derm Directory to find a dermatologist who understands Black skin. In the meantime, these are some of our favorite products to help manage hyperpigmentation.
Keep it Clean
One of the most important parts of your skin care routine should be twice daily cleansing to remove the dirt, oil and makeup that can cause problems. When you’re choosing your cleanser, gentle is best. And CeraVe’s Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a beauty influencer favorite. It’s perfect for normal to dry skin, keeping it clean without irritating or drying.
Vitamin C is Your Friend
A Vitamin C serum can help brighten your complexion and reduce the damage caused by the sun. And SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is a dermatologist’s favorite. Although it retails for over $160, loyal users say it’s worth every penny. One happy customer wrote, “Love this product! Texture is not sticky. Very smooth. Visible notice a change in my skin with only a couple weeks of using.”
Moisturize
Hyperpigmentation can get worse in cold, dry conditions, making it more important than ever to make sure a good moisturizer is a part of your skin care routine. Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Face Moisturizer with SPF 30 does double duty, giving you a moisturizer and broad spectrum protection from the sun in one.
Sunscreen is Everything
By now we know how harmful the sun’s rays can be to our skin. And if you have hyperpigmentation, those rays can make the condition worse. If your moisturizer doesn’t have SPF, you definitely want to make sure you add a layer of sunscreen before heading out the door. Choose a sunscreen that gives you both UVA and UVB protection and has an SPF of 30 or higher. And be sure to apply it to your skin at least 15 minutes before you go outside. We love Make It Glow™ SPF 30 from Black Girl Sunscreen. It gives you the protection you need without leaving that icky white film some other brands do.
Apply a Retinoid
Topical retinoids can help treat acne and lighten areas of hyperpigmentation on your skin. And applying retinol to your skin at night can help clear your complexion while you sleep. We love Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Treatment, a light lotion that helps even out your skin tone. And we’re not alone. One happy customer wrote, “Best OTC Retinol on the market! This has been my go to, holy grail retinol product for about 3 years…worth your time and worth trying.” Start by applying it once or twice a week, as overuse can lead to skin irritation.
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