Skincare and makeup tips for dark skin tones
We could talk skincare all day every day, it is a topic we never get tired of.
Although there is one area we haven’t talked about and that is dark skin tone makeup tips. If you have a good skincare routine in place, you are already on your way to having the perfect base for makeup.
We have gathered some simple tips that may make the journey a little easier, and allow you to see notable results, in both your skincare and makeup application.
Dark skin tone skincare tips
Cystic acne, hyperpigmentation or dry skin ailments such as eczema or psoriasis, mean you may need to create a more effective skincare routine. Other common skin concerns for women with significant amounts of melanin are uneven-tone, blemishes and dull complexion. Skincare is not a one size fits all solution for skin concerns facing all black women.
Vitamin C
When we think of vitamin C we think of oranges, and there is nothing quite like having a fresh-glass of orange juice in the morning. It gives you a boost of effective energy you need to get along with your day. There is something that can have a similar effect on your skin, vitamin C. If you apply a topical vitamin C, ascorbic acid regulates your melanin. This means that if you have had too much sun exposure or an injury to your skin, it is less likely to overproduce melanin. Hyperpigmentation or dark spots are results of overproduction.
Application
The type of products you apply to your face are essential, however how you apply them is just as important. If the product isn’t distributed evenly, it won’t function properly, meaning you won’t see notable results. Skincare experts say that you should dispense all your products to the back on your hand and then smooth them onto the skin with your fingertips.
Our hands are the driest parts of our bodies. Therefore if you dispense the product to the palm on your hands and begin to rub, it wastes the product because your palms absorb most of it.
Tip: If you like to apply your skincare using your palms, we recommend moisturising your hands every time you wash or sanitize them.
Cool it down
Large painful breakouts or cystic acne are some of the worst skin disorders among darker skin tones. There are many treatments available to help ease breakouts/acne, and this can depend on specific body chemistry. Although there are some quick and easy ways to help treat blemishes and avoid dark spots which can be done in the comfort of your own home.
Rub an ice cube on the area three times a day for approximately one to two minutes. Take painkillers every four to six hours (the recommended time) and this will help ease the inflammation. We would recommend you visit a dermatologist for a more in-depth look and examination.
Toner
Toner is the step in between your cleanser and your moisturiser. It removes any traces of dirt or pollution anything your cleanser may have missed.
Toner is a skincare step not to be missed
Women with darker skin tones, often say that their skin can appear very oily and that they hate the thought of wearing makeup over it.
What can a toner do for darker oily skin tones?
It balances the skin’s pH levels to enhance the glow-inducing efforts of the rest of your skincare routine. We recommend you try a high-quality toner with ingredients that are going to give you notable results, like camphor and menthol. These ingredients work with the skin to help cool and refresh it.
Dark skin tone makeup tips
Moisturise
Women or men with dark skin, especially dry skin can appear ashy if the skin is not moisturised properly. After cleansing, toning and applying serums the next step should be to apply moisturiser suited to your skin type. The moisturiser will help lock in your other skincare steps, while also giving you a clear, glowing dusky appearance.
Poko's Ultra Hydrating Moisturiser contains humectants like glycerine and aloe vera juice to pull moisture from the air and the deepest layers of the skin, to hydrate the upper dermis. Plant oils like shea butter, olive oil and apricot kernel oil help to seal in water molecules while replenishing the skin's moisture barrier for 24-hour hydration.
SPF
If you have a dark complexion, you should still wear an SPF. Your skin can still be affected by the harmful UV rays. SPF’s can be found in some moisturisers, although we would still recommend using a separate SPF after applying your moisturiser. Giving your skin the extra protection it needs.
Foundation
Shade matching is something we all struggle with whether we have lighter skin or darker skin. Everyone is guilty of testing numerous shades on the back of their hand, holding it up to your face to see which matches the best. Thankfully there are now online blogs and quizzes to help us choose the best shade of foundation.
The best shade is the shade that matches your natural skin tone. Some like to opt for two shades, one lighter and one darker. A lighter shade would be applied to the centre of the face and your natural tone on the rest of your face. This gives your face a brighter appearance.
Tip: Avoid using transparent powder, it may give the skin a grayish tinge.
Concealer
In our opinion concealer is a secret weapon if used correctly. Finding the right concealer is important, you don't want it to slide off after a few hours or settle into your fine lines.
Apply a concealer along the tops of the cheekbones towards the top of your eyebrows, it's like your drawing a triangle. This will help to conceal dark circles, and immediately help attract light.
Concealer can also be used for cover-up blemishes or acne and also dark spots.
Eye Shadow
Eye makeup highlights and enhances your appearance. For a daytime look colours like browns, pinks and grey eyeshadows work perfectly. For an evening look, you can be a little more adventurous when choosing eye shadow colours. Shades like blue, purple, copper and brown are all colours that look amazing on dark skin.
Finally...
Don't be afraid to experiment with your skincare and makeup. What works for you may not work for your friend, so be sure to create your own routines.