Skin aging is normal. But premature skin aging is a concern for many people. And if you have black skin, you aren’t an exception. According to a publication in the National Library of Science, aging is an unavoidable phenomenon.
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We can change external factors that speed skin aging, but we can’t change internal (intrinsic) elements. Research shows that black skin has 13.4 as the mean protective factor, while white skin has 3.4. The study further mentions that dark-pigmented skin has high melanin concentrations and spread out melanosomes enhancing its photoprotection ability.
Other skin aging signs in People of African heritage are present despite the delay of photoaging in black skin—for instance, dark spots, age spots, and seborrheic keratosis ( growths on the skin).
But this doesn’t mean dark or black skin can’t suffer from premature skin aging. It does. So, how do you reduce early skin aging? Here’s what we have for you.
Use a Sunscreen
The warmth of the morning sun on your African skin feels heavenly. But sun damage becomes inevitable when you expose your skin to hot sun for prolonged hours. Hyperpigmentation is a sign of sun damage on your dark or brown skin.
To avoid such effects, you can use a chemical sunscreen that your skin absorbs. Or you could settle for a mineral that sits on our skin, preventing the absorption of ultra Violet (UV) by your face and whole body.
Is there a difference in sunscreens? We have different skin tones, so you must identify the right sunscreen for your dark skin. One that has Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or over can work for you. In fact, the higher the SPF, the better the skin protection.
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Read Also: Top 8 Lipstick Shades for Black Skin
Boost Your Collagen Synthesis
A study shows that loss of skin elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles is a product of a reduction in collagen and hyaluronan generation. You can start boosting your collagen levels if you see these signs.
There’s insufficient research proving collagen intake helps skin and joints. But, people are encouraged to eat healthy foods to support collagen production.
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Here’s a list:
- Consume zinc-rich foods like:
- Nuts
- Whole grains
- Meat
- Shellfish
- Citrus fruits
- Tomatoes
- Vegetables (leafy)
- Bell peppers
- Eat high-protein foods thought to have amino acids that trigger collagen production. For instance, chicken, fish, eggs, meat, soy, legumes and dairy.
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Focus on Your Gut Health
What you eat determines the health of your skin. Eat well-balanced meals, lots of vegetables and fruits. There’s still further research needed to prove whether increased water uptake aids skin’s health, according to a publication in ResearchGate.
Read Also: 15 Best Skin Care Products for Black Women
Exfoliate
Soaps and water are not enough to clean our pores. So, you need to remove dead skin and reveal new soft skin by exfoliating.
Exfoliation is an age-old tradition. Egyptians used pumice stones, and wines were a popular exfoliant in the middle ages. In Today’s world, different skin exfoliation ways exist. If you have sensitive skin, you need to go slow on exfoliation. Take your time to identify what works with your skin. And if you have dry skin, avoid daily exfoliation.
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Reduce alcohol intake
A glass of wine after a long day is okay. But too much alcohol consumption can lead to health issues and a dry looking-skin. Increased alcohol intake removes the moisture from your skin, leaving it wrinkled and sagging.
Thus, it’s good if you reduce your alcohol consumption if you want radiant plump black skin.
People of color have beautiful skin. Improving its look and health is a conscious effort. Aging is unavoidable, but premature skin aging is manageable.
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