Whether you’re a pro at applying just the right amount of toner before bed or you’re just starting to dip your moisturized toes into the world of daily skin care routines, finding which products don’t completely break you out or cause an adverse reaction can be stressful. There are literally thousands of skin care products out there aimed at every condition, skin concern and skin type. But how do you know which ones will work for you?
A smart thing to do before you start throwing creams, butters and oils onto your skin all willy-nilly is to check out what other people say about the products you’re itching to add to your cart and, in my case, looking for reviews from people who are Black. For example, I have sensitive combination acne-prone skin that really only likes certain products, and when I deviate and try something new without doing extensive research first, it gets upset with me. Big time.
But when I do research and read or watch a million reviews from people who have similar skin tones and types, I typically have better results finding something that works for me. I take skin care so strictly that I have a tight circle of skin care influencers and enthusiasts I trust to give honest and genuine product recommendations.
So in the spirit of sharing the wealth, I asked them to provide their favorite Black-owned skin care products that they reach for often, if not every day. But even though these products below are from Black-owned brands, most of them cater to skin of all shades. Who doesn’t love a good moisturizing face cream? These inclusive products are, however, made especially to address the concerns and needs of Black and brown skin.
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"I was definitely late to the party on this one, but after seeing how much people loved it I had to try it out. It did not disappoint," Samuel said. "I love this because it’s not your typical harsh retinol but it still delivers amazing results. It honestly leaves my skin looking so smooth and even. I’m obsessed."
Shani Darden Retinol Reform aims to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles while also brightening your skin. It works on normal, combination and oily skin. Expert esthetician Shani Darden founded her skin care brand from custom-made formulas that proved to be a huge success for her clients.
"This is a first-of-its-kind product for treating ingrowns. It’s quickly become a must for my post-shaved skin. It relieves itchiness and irritation almost immediately. The best part is that it can be used all over the body," Singleton said.
The tonic contains salicylic acid to clear pore buildup, zinc PCA to decrease inflammation and glycolic acid to exfoliate and help fix uneven texture.
"I adore this hydrating toner with anti-pollution benefits. I’ve used it for months. Ustawi’s line is so luxe and uses the best ingredients chosen to treat melanin-rich skin," Singleton said.
"It's one of the only products that has been able to help my dark spots and reduce the number of bumps I get on my forehead," Harris said. "A few months after using it, I stopped wearing complexion products completely because I was so confident in my skin and I'm forever grateful."
"Afokoskin makes a black soap foaming cleanser that I swear by. It removes all makeup [and] cleanses thoroughly but doesn’t leave your skin feeling stripped dry," Ozaydinli said.
Made for sensitive skin, this gentle cleanser fights acne, soothes dry skin, treats discoloration and helps minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
"I absolutely love the vitamin C sunscreen from Bolden. It’s super lightweight, blends perfectly and you get that added benefit of the vitamin C which helps to even skin tone," Ozaydinli said.
A lot of sunscreens leave a dreaded, annoying white cast when applied to darker skin, but this one doesn't, according to these Amazon reviews.
"My nighttime routine these days always includes this gorgeous velvety moisturizer from Epara Skin. It leaves my skin feeling so soft while also tackling hyperpigmentation," Ozaydinli said.
"This is a great vitamin C serum that provides antioxidant support while fading hyperpigmentation," Mack said.
"A luxurious solid balm," said skin care enthusiast Addy Bello. "I apply it on damp skin and massage, leaving my skin cocooned in softness. Lastly, the scent is divine — the blend of blue tansy, cocoa and lavender make this a must-have for self-care routines!"
"It’s a portable and affordable spot treatment. The peppermint oil provides instant cooling relief on inflamed whiteheads and acne while the zinc oxide absorbs excess oil. I love it because it’s gentle enough to be used multiple times a week," Bello said.
"My favorite lip gloss of all time is the Ami Cole lip treatment oil. It really lasts forever but doesn’t feel sticky on your lips and the shade is just so flattering on brown skin. I’m never without this!" Ozaydinli said.
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