African-American skin contains higher levels of melanin than Caucasian skin. However, general skin care doesn’t vary greatly between the two. In fact, no matter what your skin type or skin color is, we all need to do basic skin care steps of cleaning, toning and moisturizing our skin, in addition to protecting it from the sun.

Still, there are certain skin problems that are known to be more prominent among African Americans and these should be given extra attention when it comes to skin care. One such skin problem is acne and in African Americans, it can lead to lasting skin discolorations. Hyper pigmentation is another common problem where a certain area of the skin darkens following injuries like cuts or scrapes. Yet another issue is the formation of keloids, a type of scar, also a result of injury.

To address the skin issues above, certain essential oils can be used to heal, nourish, preserve and rejuvenate the skin. Used correctly, essential oils make an excellent addition to African-American skin care. For instance, certain essential oils are as effective in controlling and healing moderate cases of acne as synthetic acne medications.

Some of the essential oils that can help treat acne include bergamot oil, lavender oil and tea tree oil. These oils have natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Tea tree oil, in particular, is known as a powerful antibacterial. So, these oils cleanse the skin to prevent acne formation but also have soothing qualities to treat existing breakouts.

Bergamot essential oil can be used during a facial steam bath to cleanse and treat the skin. Meanwhile, lavender oil is great for spot treatments. It is one of the few essential oils that can be applied on the skin in its pure form so using it is as easy as dipping a cotton bud in the oil and applying it directly on the pimple. To use tea tree oil, a few drops of it can be added to a fragrance-free facial cleanser to control acne.

Tea tree and lavender oils are also very effective in healing wounds so both can be used in the prevention of scars and discolorations. Other essential oils known to prevent or lighten scars and even out skin discolorations include Sage and Helichrysum. A basic blend of 10 drops of Helichrysum to an ounce of Rosehip seed oil applied daily is said to help speed up the healing of wounds and prevent the formation of keloids. Do note that it may take up to 6 months to see results if treating old scars.

Many other essential oils are great for African-American skin not just to help with common skin problems. There are essential oils for dry skin that can rejuvenate the skin and give it a natural glow. Keep in mind that essential oils are potent so make sure to use them properly to enjoy all their benefits.

To Your Beauty,

Juliette Samuel

Esthetician/Publisher

NYRAJU Skin Care

http://www.nyrajuskincare.com