By Sheila Leftridge
Exfoliation
Let’s talk about the challenges of Black skin for both the body and face. A common concern is hyperkeratosis. Hyperkeratosis is the thickening of the outer layer of skin caused by an abnormal buildup of keratin. Keratin is a structural protein that forms the protective tissue in skin, hair, and nails, providing strength, elasticity, and protection from environmental damage. It plays a key role in maintaining structural integrity.
Symptoms can include rough, hardened skin patches, often on the feet or hands, discoloration between the thighs, and darkened knees and elbows, to name a few. The accumulation of dead skin cells on the surface can also give the skin an ashy appearance.
The solution is exfoliation. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cell layers more effectively without being overly abrasive. It is especially helpful in addressing hyperpigmentation. Excessive pigment can occur when the skin is injured by trauma, post inflammatory pigmentation, extractions, or sun exposure. Hormonal imbalances can also lead to hyperpigmentation, including the use of oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and pregnancy.
Body
With the summer months approaching, you want to ensure your skin is healthy and glowing. This is the perfect time to develop a body care regimen. The skin on the body is tougher than the skin on your face, so you can use more potent products.
To get started, gather the items you need. First, obtain a pair of exfoliation gloves. Then look for a body scrub and body wash that cater to your specific concerns. For example, if you have dark spots on your legs, look for a scrub containing turmeric, lemon, glycolic acid, lactic acid, or kojic acid.
You can find great options at stores like Macy’s Backstage, Ross, or Burlington. A recent favorite is the SpaScriptions Turmeric + Vitamin C Glowing Sugar Scrub with brown sugar and hyaluronic acid. Turmeric is rich in antioxidants and helps reduce the appearance of redness for a natural glow. Vitamin C brightens and restores the skin. Brown sugar acts as a gentle exfoliant, while hyaluronic acid hydrates and helps retain moisture.
Use a body scrub two to three times per week. You can also use it on your hands and feet. Always wear sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher to protect your new skin cells from sun damage.
Feet and Hands
If you wear flip flops often, you may notice discoloration or sun damage on your feet. To exfoliate, try the Baby Foot Original Exfoliation Lavender Scented Foot Peel. This treatment helps remove dead skin cells that build up over time and can lead to various foot concerns.
There are also options like Baby Foot Exfoliation Foot Peel for Men and moisturizing foot masks. Do not forget the men. They want to look and feel their best too.
For hands, pair your treatment with moisturizing gloves. The epielle K Beauty hydrating gloves, infused with shea butter, jojoba oil, and vitamin E, help smooth and soften the skin while deeply moisturizing the hands and nails.
Inner Thighs
Inner thigh discoloration, or hyperpigmentation, is common and often caused by friction from skin rubbing together, hormonal changes such as PCOS, or insulin resistance. It is generally harmless and may appear as darkened or slightly velvety skin.
Dark spots in this area can also result from improper hair removal or skin trauma, which increases the activity of melanocytes, the cells responsible for pigmentation.
You must be gentle when treating and exfoliating the inner thigh area. The skin is thinner and can be easily irritated. If irritation occurs, keep the area well hydrated. Aloe vera gel and hydrocortisone ointment can help soothe and calm the skin.
Musely offers a product called The Private Cream, a prescription formula designed to target dark spots in sensitive areas such as the underarms and inner thighs. When trying any new product, always perform a patch test and keep a soothing ointment on hand in case of irritation.
