Black don’t crack! Well, for some, that’s a rumor. As you spend your days living life – smiling, frowning, and cackling – your face will likely remember those moments in the form of wrinkles. And, if you love going out in the sun without sunscreen, that can be a major cause of wrinkles, too. “Sun damage is a primary cause of wrinkles,” doctor of traditional Oriental medicine and skincare formulator, Jenelle Kim, told 21Ninety.
So, if you’d prefer to only store those memories in your mind, then look to a wrinkle-preventing serum and sunscreen. Each serum covers a different component of aging skin. Most of the time you’ll find products designed to address fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, or sun spots. There are even serums that cover two or more components at once.
And, remember to wear your sunscreen. “Using a daily SPF, reapplying it on outdoor days, and [wearing] sun protective clothing protects against free radical damage that can catch up to you when you get older,” licensed esthetician and founder of Free + True, Tami Blake, told 21Ninety.
What To Look For
When you’re shopping for an effective wrinkle-preventing serum, and well-aging products in general, make sure that you keep four things in mind: active ingredients, hydration, antioxidants, and broad spectrum sun protection.
“Look for proven anti-aging ingredients such as retinoids (retinol), peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and niacinamide,” Dr. Kim said. “These ingredients can stimulate collagen production, hydrate the skin, and combat free radicals.”
In terms of hydration Dr. Kim said to keep an eye out for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides. These ingredients make your skin look plumper and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E fight free radicals that can accelerate the aging process, according to the skincare formulator.
Having said that, remember that both Dr. Kim and Blake, agree that in order to have the best results, you need to apply sunscreen everyday.
Wrinkle-Preventing Serums and Black Skin
You already know that Black skin is rich in melanin. That increased melanin leaves Black skin more prone to hyperpigmentation. “When skin irritation/inflammation happens, more melanin is delivered to the surface,” Blake explained. That’s why deeper skin tones should avoid high levels of retinol. And, if you have sensitive skin, should opt for a retinol alternative or derivatives.
Another harsh ingredient is glycolic acid. If you use too much, Dr. Kim noted that you might experience irritation or discoloration. “Opt for milder exfoliants like lactic acid or mandelic acid [instead],” per the skin formulator’s recommendation.
You should also make sure that the serum you use is non-comedogenic. “Deeper skin tones can be more prone to clogged pores and breakouts,” according to Dr. Kim.
No matter what skin type you have, you should always test out a serum by doing a patch test. That way you can make sure the serum won’t irritate you while you use it as directed. That said, know that both experts agree that if you have any questions about what you should use, to speak with your skin care professional.
Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum
The Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum is a product made specifically for sensitive skin. It targets dark spots, acne, clogged pores, and dullness with its formula blend of retinol and retinol alternatives. That said, this serum is also paraben- and hydroquinone-free with no added fragrances.
Olay Super Serum 5 in 1 Benefit Face Serum
Olay’s Super Serum 5 in 1 Benefit Face Serum is truly an all-in-one serum. It’s formulated with niacinamide, AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), collagen peptide, along with vitamins C and E. Also, this non-greasy combination moisturizes, firms, and improves your skin’s tone and texture.
Shani Darden Retinol Reform
Shani Darden’s Retinol Reform is made to revive dull deflated skin. This serum reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, it firms and brightens the skin for an all-around youth-enhancing experience.
Glow Recipe Pomegranate Peptide Firming Serum
Glow Recipe’s Pomegranate Peptide Firming Serum lifts and firms your skin. This serum has polypeptides, hyaluronic acid, and pomegranate to iron-out fine lines and wrinkles with regular use.
La Roche Posay Hyaluronic Acid Serum
La Roche Posay’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a blend of the hero hydrating ingredient and vitamin B5. It’s made to lock in moisture in order to plump and hydrate the skin – especially for sensitive skin. Best of all, it’s allergy tested, non-comedogenic, and paraben- and oil-free.
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