African skin is quite varied and has different classifications according to the International Journal of tropical Disease and Health. In addition they explain that African skin is quite varied and there are four main types identified by Leslie Bauman. These are : dry and oily, sensitive or resistant, pigmented or non pigmented, wrinkled or unwrinkled. Generally people living nearer to the Equator have darker skin colour, as it is highly UV resistant. African skin is different from Caucasian skin in several ways:
♥ It has more melanin, which gives it a rich, dark tone.
♥ African skin is thicker and contains more collagen, making it firmer.
♥ It loses moisture easily because it has fewer ceramides.
♥ The PH level is lower, making it prone to itching and some skin conditions.
♥ The mast cells are larger, which can also increase itchiness.
Because African Skin loses moisture quickly, therefore it needs products that lock in hydration. Many Africans use staple products like petroleum jelly to moisturise, as it forms a protective layer on the skin. Using high products with nourishing ingredients is key to skin health. The Camee body care range offers everything from simple petroleum jelly to body creams with sweet almond oil, which is full of vitamins.
♦ Shea Butter : Packed with vitamins and fatty acids, therefore it keeps skin soft and hydrated.
♦ Cocoa Butter: Helps prevent dryness and adds long lasting moisture.
♦ Petroleum Jelly: Seals in moisture, especially in dry areas such as knees and elbows.
♦ Jojoba oil: Mimics the skin’s natural oils, thus keeping it hydrated.
♦ Argan Oil : Contains Vitamin E and essential fatty acids to repair and nourish.
♦ Baobab oil : Known for its rich nutrients that deeply moisturise, for that reason it is a valuable oil for the skin.
♦ Marula Oil : Lightweight, yet hydrating. Simultaneously helps to prevent moisture loss without clogging pores.
Since African skin is prone to itching, it is important to use calming ingredients.
♦ Aloe Vera : Reduces Inflammation and calms irritation.
♦ Colloidal Oatmeal : Helps relieve itchy, irritated skin.
♦ Centella Asiatica: Known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
♦ Chamomile Extract : Gently soothes redness and at the same time reduces itching.
♦. Jojoba oil: Hydrates without irritating sensitive skin.
♦ Argan oil: Repairs the skin’s barrier, at the same time reduces dryness.
♦ Marula Oil: Rich in sntioxidants, it calms and protects sensitive skin.
APPLY MOISTURISER ON DAMP SKIN : This helps to trap moisture into the skin.
AVOID USING HOT WATER ON THE SKIN : Hot water removes oil from the skin, consequently leading to dryness.
DO NOT USE HARSH SOAPS which strip natural oils from your skin.
EXFOLIATE REGULARLY: This removes dead skin cells, thus allowing moisturisers to work more effectively.
PROTECT FROM SUN DAMAGE: Even though African skin does contain a lot of melanin, use SPF30 for protection against premature aging, hyper pigmentation and sun damage. Wear hats and protective clothing when you are outside in direct sunlight.
USE GENTLE CLEANSERS to avoid drying out the skin unnecessarily. Ideally you should opt for fragrance free cleansers which maintain the skin’s natural PH levels.
TRY NOT TO SCRATCH: Scratching can cause skin damage and lead to infections. Use a cold compress or soothing cream in case you feel itchy.
STAY HYDRATED: Drinking enough water will keep your skin hydrated from the inside, combine this with healthy eating practices for best results. Eat foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, Vitamin C and antioxidants to support skin health.
USE A HUMIDIFIER: This adds moisture to the air, thus preventing dry skin.
AVOID HARSH PRODUCTS: Use gentle or natural skincare products tailored to the needs of African skin.
To learn more about the particular needs of African healthcare, please read our article on hair care tips for African hair. Find out the best products and tips to keep your hair healthy!
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