Key takeaways

  • Dark skin tones contain more melanin than lighter skin tones. Melanin-producing cells may be more susceptible to the effects of inflammation and injury, which may be more noticeable in dark skin than in light skin.
  • To care for darker skin tones, people can cleanse and moisturize daily, wear sunscreen, choose suitable products, and eat a balanced, nutritious diet.
  • Anyone concerned about their skin or skin care routine can speak with a dermatologist for more support.

Everyone’s skin is different and can benefit from a tailored care routine. Different skin care routines benefit different skin colors, due to variances in the structure and function of the skin.

This article lists five tips for caring for darker skin tones, including advice on product ingredients and links to find a dermatologist.

To keep skin bright and supple, people can cleanse and moisturize daily. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends washing the skin:

  • after waking up
  • before going to bed
  • after sweating

Use a gentle cleanser that does not clog the pores. It may be worth looking for one that claims to be “noncomedogenic.”

Massage the cleanser into the skin with clean fingertips, then rinse it off with warm (not hot) water and pat the skin dry with a clean towel.

Some research suggests that dark skin tones lose moisture faster than lighter skin tones. A daily moisturizer may help to prevent this water loss. A moisturizer containing ceramides, which help lock in water, may be the best choice.

Avoid moisturizers with fragrances, as these can irritate some people’s skin. Moisturizers that include creams or ointments are preferable to lotions.

One of the biggest myths about dark skin is that it does not burn and that Black people do not need to wear sunscreen. This is untrue, and everyone should use adequate sun protection.

Although people with dark skin tones are less likely to get skin cancer, they are more likely to die from the condition if it does develop. This may be because it is more difficult to notice and diagnose, or due to differences in access to care and treatment.

Sun exposure can also cause dark spots, such as those typical of melasma, to develop on black skin. It can also make existing spots darker.

The AAD recommends using a sunscreen with the following characteristics:

  • a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30
  • broad spectrum protection, which means it protects against both ultraviolet (UV) A and UVB rays
  • water resistance
  • iron oxide
  • noncomedogenic

Regularly wearing sunscreen may also help prevent hyperpigmentation and prevent dark spots from getting darker.

People should apply sunscreen all year round to all areas of exposed skin, even on cloudy days, when in the shade, and in the winter.

Many regular moisturizers contain SPF, including facial moisturizers. Sun protection is especially important on the face, as it tends to experience sun exposure all year round.

Self-exams for skin cancer can be important in getting an early diagnosis and prompt treatment, which may be more likely to lead to remission.

If people notice any changes in their skin, it is a good idea to consult a dermatologist for a professional examination. Changes may include:

  • a new mole or growth, particularly if it is asymmetrical or fast-growing
  • changes in the appearance of an old growth or scar
  • patches of skin changing color
  • sores that do not heal

The AAD recommends speaking with a dermatologist for personalized skin advice, especially if someone notices something they dislike about their skin.

A dermatologist can help someone learn the type of skin they have and the most suitable skin care products.

If someone has a skin condition, working with a dermatologist may also help improve the appearance of their skin.

For example, treating acne early could prevent the condition from worsening. It may also prevent the formation of dark spots on the skin, which is part of a condition called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These spots are not scars.

Skin conditions can appear differently on different skin tones. Therefore, it is important for people with dark skin to consult a dermatologist with experience in darker skin tones if they notice any changes to their skin.

A person’s diet can affect their skin health. To give skin the nutrients it needs to form and repair itself, people can eat a diet rich in:

  • fruits and vegetables
  • whole grains
  • lean protein sources, such as fish, eggs, legumes, and tofu
  • healthy fats, including nuts, avocado, and olive oil

Limiting ultra-processed foods, added sugar, and alcohol intake may also help improve skin health. Alcohol may worsen or trigger certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis.

People with skin conditions, such as acne or eczema, can consult a dermatologist about the best diet for their skin health.

Establishing a good skin care routine can help keep dark skin looking bright, supple, and clear.

As well as performing a gentle daily routine and adopting a healthy diet, people with dark skin may benefit from avoiding products that contain harsh chemicals and fragrances.

Specific skin issues, such as acne and dark spots, benefit from swift treatment and preventive techniques.

To prevent the formation and worsening of dark spots and more serious health concerns such as skin cancer, experts recommend that everybody use sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher every day.