Is the traditional cleanse, tone, exfoliate and moisturize regimen for black skin care a thing of the past?

I’ve been out and about visiting spas and taking a look at and experimenting with facials that they offer. From exotic to indulgent, high- tech and definitely high cost, here’s what I was offered to care for my beautiful black skin.

Acupressure Facial – Got fine lines caused by a little stress (fine lines now include frowning and smiling-go figure)? Well by using essential oils such as orange flower and camphor to help me relax, the therapist massaged the pressure points in my chin, upper lip and forehead. The treatment is intended to soften these muscles while minimizing tension and headaches and improving circulation and skin tone. We all know that good circulation makes your skin look younger and healthier. Right?

Hydrating Facial-This treatment was called the Organic Hydrating Facial. Coffee bean eye cream, white tea facial cleanser, pineapple mask and cranberry moisturizer. Sounds good enough to eat. But wait, the secret ingredient was black tea bags. Caffeine is said to push under eye darkness into the lymph and brightens the skin around your eyes. I know that some of you are going to the health food store and picking up some black tea bags. Send me some feedback and let me know if this works for you.

Black Pearls and Oyster Shells- Well now, things are heating up. Sounds more like a combination that I would love to have hanging from my neck but not this time. This treatment is said to eliminate toxins from your body and replenish the collagen and elastin and improve your facial texture. The down side, your pearl like glow, that shimmering look, only last until your skin gets wet.

Time did not permit me to experience the 24K Gold Facial, the salon was booked for this treatment.

Write me and let me know what exotic experiences you’ve had with facials while caring for your beautiful black skin.

To Your Beauty,

Juliette Samuel,

Esthetician/Founder-NYRAJU Skin Care

photo credit: Dennis Wong