Black skin, with all its melanin richness, is undeniably beautiful. But like all skin types, it needs to be looked after, especially when the weather changes, like we’re experiencing right now.
You wake up to a bright, sunny morning and retire to a cold, rainy evening. During these times, when there is a drop in temperature, increased humidity or dry indoor air from heaters, this can present unique challenges.
When the air becomes cooler and potentially drier when you’re indoors, the skin’s natural lipid barrier can be more easily disrupted.
Using harsh, abrasive cleansers or over-exfoliating can strip away essential moisture, leading to a compromised barrier. You will see this as dryness, ashy patches, tightness and increased sensitivity or even breakouts.
Instead, switch to gentler, moisturising cleansers such as creams, oils or balms that cleanse effectively without stripping. Exfoliation may need to take a back seat if your skin feels tight or irritated.
If you do exfoliate, consider milder options such as lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) and always follow up with hydration.
Melanin-rich skin, while often appearing robust, can sometimes be more prone to transepidermal water loss. This is when moisture evaporates from the skin more easily. Cold weather often exacerbates this.
Avoid this by layering and sealing your hydration. Start by applying hydrating serums with humectants such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin to moisturise the skin. Then move on to a richer, more emollient moisturiser.
Look for ingredients like ceramides to help repair the skin barrier, shea butter, squalane or just your usual petroleum jelly to help lock in moisture and target those very dry areas. Don’t forget your body. A nourishing body oil or butter applied after a bath can make all the difference.
Speaking of bathing, as tempting as it may be to seek solace in a long, hot shower when the weather is chilly, it can be quite damaging to your skin’s moisture balance. And here’s why. Hot water strips the skin of its natural oils far more effectively than lukewarm water, leaving it vulnerable to dryness and irritation. Instead, opt for shorter, lukewarm showers and moisturise immediately after, patting your skin dry to lock in any remaining moisture.
By Esther Muchene
