There’s an old saying that “Black, don’t crack!” but what does that *really* mean?
We’re breaking down the myths, the facts and the age-old remedies we’ve used for generations, all in the service of loving the skin we’re in.
We Asked a Black Derm Our Most Pressing Skincare Questions
MELANIN
Help! Recently I’ve noticed some dark spots on my face. What should I do about my hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation presents as darker patches or spots on the skin, and melanin-rich skin is more prone to experiencing it, often resulting from trauma, acne, or irritation.
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Skincare, makeup, clothing and more.
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More Ways to Care for Your Black Skin
My skin is so dark—do I really need sunscreen?
‘Black, don’t crack’: Fact or fiction?
While the phrase celebrates the youthful appearance of Black individuals, it can oversimplify the importance of skincare and regular dermatological care. Everyone can benefit from proper skincare practices, even Black women.
Yes! Despite higher melanin levels providing some natural sun protection, SPF is crucial to prevent premature photoaging and prolonged hyperpigmentation. SPF is essential for everyone.
Dr. Camille Howard-Verovic
Board-certified dermatologist, co-founder of Girl+Hair
and skin partner with Ulta Beauty
How We Care for Our Black Skin
As a child, my mom would slather my face in the Aquaphor healing ointment, so [this one by CeraVe] always reminds me of my childhood when I apply it on my skin. It’s usually the last step in my skincare routine; I use it to lock in all the moisture and serums.
I've always been a stickler for raw, unrefined cocoa butters. (You've likely seen them in those clear jars at least once, being sold on a street corner with incense sticks.) I just love that it's chemical-free, and it can work miracles—turning my skin from the Sahara desert into something silky, smooth and well-moisturized.
It's a cleansing bar that's totally non-fuss, and it's cheap! My face always feels squeaky clean every time I use it. There's no smell, it doesn't really burn or feel heavy on my skin. My mom used it in college and she recommended it to me when I was looking for a new cleanser. It gets the job done and keeps my face clean and tight, so I can stay snatched!
If I had to pick one staple product in my skincare routine, it would have to be my SPF. Like many people in my community, I didn’t grow up using sunscreen. I would always hear the expression, “We’re Black, we don’t need sunscreen.” But that’s not true at all. Not only does sunscreen act as a protective barrier for my skin, but it stops premature aging. And to be honest, I want to age gracefully!
Courtney Mason
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Karelle McKay
ME,
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dermbeautydoc
I recommend using products with ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, tranexamic acid and cysteamine. You can also consider professional treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy.
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There’s an old saying that “Black, don’t crack!” but what does that *really* mean?
We’re breaking down the myths, the facts and the age-old remedies we’ve used for generations, all in the service of loving the skin we’re in.
MELANIN
Hyperpigmentation presents as darker patches or spots on the skin, and melanin-rich skin is more prone to experiencing it, often resulting from trauma, acne, or irritation.
Help! Recently I’ve noticed some dark spots on my face. What should I do about my hyperpigmentation?
I recommend using products with ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, tranexamic acid and cysteamine. You can also consider professional treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy.
My skin is so dark—do I really need sunscreen?
Yes! Despite higher melanin levels providing some natural sun protection, SPF is crucial to prevent premature photoaging and prolonged hyperpigmentation. SPF is essential for everyone.
