If you are looking for effective African American skin care products, you have to know what ingredients are good for your skin and what you should definitely avoid. There are products with substances that contribute to hyper-pigmentation or can dry out the skin. Of course, products that are good for your skin keep it moisturized, clear, smooth and protected.
When shopping for African American skin care products, look for products that have the following:
Vitamin E – a powerful antioxidant that repairs damage done by free radicals on skin cells; it helps to reduce hyper-pigmentation spots or discolored marks to help achieve an even skin tone.
Nut grass root extract – this natural extract inhibits melanin production to naturally lighten dark skin.
Jojoba extract – this an excellent moisturizer that is perfect for dry and oily combination skin type because it hydrates dry areas without making oily skin areas even greasier.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) – these are derived from natural sources like milk and fruits and have been found to be effective in exfoliation so they help in removing dark spots to reveal fresher and better-looking skin. Products containing AHAs are best applied at night.
Shea butter – this has very good moisturizing properties and also helps minimize skin discolorations and is used in many natural skin care products.
The list above shows some of the most common ingredients in African American skin care products that have been proven effective in renewing black skin and making it smooth and radiant. Unfortunately, there are also many other skin care products that can actually do more harm than good to black skin. So, it is important for African Americans to scrutinize a product before buying or trying it.
One of the compounds to watch out for is methyl paraben, which has been long used in skin care products worldwide but its use is now controversial because some studies suggest it increases cancer risks.
Also, if you’re looking for a product to treat oily skin, which many African Americans are prone to, avoid products that contain propylene glycol because they can increase dark spots. Stay away from petroleum-based products that can aggravate oily skin. When it comes to skin lightening, use natural bleaching agents instead of chemical ones that are often harsh on the skin.
Remember that there is no single miracle skin care product that applies to all skin types. So, take your time and look for what will work best for your skin while keeping in mind what is good and what to avoid.
Dedicated to Your Beauty,
Juliette Samuel
Esthetician/Publisher
NYRAJU Skin Care – Providers of Natural Skin and Hair care products for the African American market.