In recent years, the mainstream beauty industry has finally gotten the memo that skin comes in all shades—introducing a welcome slew of new multicultural offerings. In fact, in 2014, the multicultural beauty sector’s growth outpaced that of the overall market for cosmetics and toiletries.
It’s certainly a much-needed development, but even with a broader array of hues hitting the market, finding the right regimen is about more than just fitting into a certain category. Along with ethnicity, board-certified dermatologist Kally Papantoniou suggests taking your skin type into account when buying beauty products. While dermatologists use various means to determine your skin type---the Baumann skin type solution, for example---Papantoniou uses the Fitzpatrick scale, which goes from one through six—from lightest to darkest—and is determined by how much one’s skin burns or tans.
“When it comes to skin, I don’t look at geography as much as I do at skin type,” says Papantoniou. “The two go hand in hand—it’s all about how much pigment there is in your skin.” Get Papantoniou’s tips on choosing the right products for your unique skin type below:
1. NEOSTRATA Resurface Lotion Plus, 200ml
NeoStrata's Lotion Plus exfoliates and hydrates to renew the appearance of photodamaged skin. Featuring a glycolic acid formula, it removes rough, dulling dermal cells, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles as it diminishes the look of hyperpigmentation to promote a clear, bright complexion. The lightweight lotion replenishes moisture without leaving a heavy residue on the skin for a long-lasting, comfortable wear. Key Ingredients: * Glycolic Acid: smooths skin surface and enhances clarity. Key Benefits: * Sloughs away rough, dry or scaly skin cells * Refines skin's surface and enhances clarity *
2. Revision Skincare® C+ Correcting Complex 30%™ 1 fl. oz.
Boost radiance with C+ Correcting Complex 30%™ from Revision, harnessing a potent blend of patent-pending MelaPATH™ technology that illuminates, refines and rejuvenates. Supporting skin’s natural production of vitamins C & E with its innovative prebiotic formula, C+ Correcting Complex 30%™ defends against further damage whilst correcting the skin-damaging effects of free radicals generated by pollutants, environmental stressors and blue light. Key Ingredients: *Sodium Carboxymethyl Beta-Glucan: prebiotic technology that helps to support the microbiome *Amino Acid Copper Complex: energizes the skin *Goji Fruit Extract: provides powerful antioxidant benefits
3. SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF (1 fl. oz.)
SkinCeuticals' Phloretin CF provides powerful antioxidant protection to normal, oily and combination skin types. Designed for daytime use, this antioxidant serum neutralizes free radicals to prevent signs of accelerated skin aging. The blend of phloretin, pure vitamin C and Ferulic acid improve the appearance of discoloration, fine lines and uneven skin tone. Phloretin neutralizes damaging free radicals, improves cell turnover and lightens signs of discoloration. L-ascorbic acid protects your skin from oxidative stress while providing visible anti-aging benefits, while ferulic acid enhances the antioxidant benefits of phloretin and vitamin C.
4. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 (1.7 fl. oz.)
Never skip a day without your daily dose of SPF - vital for Type 1 skin types.
UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 by EltaMD offers full spectrum protection, shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Fragrance-free and specifically formulated for sensitive skin types, this is an SPF with skincare clout. We’re talking sodium hyaluronate to moisturize, while lactic acid refines and clears pores. Key Ingredients: *Zinc oxide: A natural mineral compound that works as a sunscreen agent by reflecting and scattering UVA and UVB rays *Niacinamide (vitamin B3): Anti-inflammatory that reduces redness and minimizes the appearance of dry or damaged skin and restores suppleness.*Hyaluronic Acid: Humectant that attracts and retains moisture, improving skin feel and restoring suppleness
