So, you are thinking of doing a cosmetic treatment, maybe a little laser, a chemical peel or even some injectables. If you have that beautiful melanin rich skin tone, you are going to need special care before deciding on any treatment. Although it gives you natural sun protection, melanin makes you more sensitive to certain procedures. But don’t worry! Let’s dive into your guide to the six essential tips every person with dark skin should know before scheduling their next treatment.
Go Slow and Steady with Chemical Peels
With chemical peels, you can tackle several skin concerns you might be battling with from acne scars to dullness. Chemical peels are like a refresh button for your skin. However, for dark skin tones, less is more. Begin with mild, superficial peels using lower concentrations (think glycolic, salicylic or lactic acid under 35%) to avoid ‘unplanned’ pigmentation or scarring.
Pro Tip: Talk to your dermatologist about priming your skin with melanin suppressants before your peel. These ingredients can help prevent those troublesome dark spots and ensure you get the glow without the complications.
Lasers: Go Long or Go Home!
Your skin needs a gentle touch when it comes to laser treatment, which is a powerful tool for all sorts of skin concerns. Why? Melanin absorbs more laser energy, which is likely to accidentally cause pigmentation, dyspigmentation or scarring. The golden rule? Choose longer-wavelength lasers like the Nd ‘Yag’ (1064 nm), which is known to reach deeper into the skin without messing with your surface melanin.
Ask for a patch test to see how your skin reacts before diving in. And never forget, the safest laser treatments are those done by professionals experienced in treating skin of colour.
Microdermabrasion: A Little Goes a Long Way
Microdermabrasion is a great way to exfoliate and smooth your skin, but too much of a good thing can be a problem! Dark skin is more likely to react to over-exfoliation, so keep your sessions spaced out and avoid high-intensity settings. Gentle microdermabrasion gives you the benefits without the risk of irritation or pigmentation.
After a session, don’t forget to moisturise and protect! A good moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen are your best friends in maintaining a fresh, even complexion.
Injectables? Less is More
Botox, fillers, and other injectables can work like magic on volume loss and wrinkles, but there are a few things to consider for dark skin tones. Some people with darker skin are more prone to bruising or temporary pigmentation changes. An experienced dermatologist can adjust their technique, using fewer injection points and gentler techniques.
Pro Tip: Start with a consultation to discuss options like hyaluronic acid fillers, which work well for skin of colour. When done right, fillers can give you a subtle, natural enhancement—without the risk of excessive bruising or discoloration.
Sunscreen: Don’t Skip It, Even After Treatment!
If we had a dime for every time we heard “Dark skin doesn’t need sunscreen,” we’d have a serious piggy bank! Sunscreen isn’t just for lighter skin. If you’ve had a peel or laser, UV rays can undo your hard work and lead to dark spots. Your skin is most sensitive after procedures, so, yes, SPF 30+ is a must, even if it’s just Netflix and chill indoors.
SPF Tip: Look for a sunscreen that melts in without leaving you looking like a ghost. We’re talking options that blend beautifully on brown skin without a trace of white cast.
Know When to Say No
Treatments like deep chemical peels aren’t ideal for dark skin, they are prone to scarring and pigmentation issues. But that’s okay! There are so many other amazing treatments that are safe and effective. Even with other procedures, it’s often recommended to start small and build up once you know how your skin reacts.
Pro Tip: Don’t rush it! take it step-by-step and prioritise treatments with a proven track record of working on skin of colour. When in doubt, remember that there are plenty of non-invasive treatments that could work wonders on your skin.
Final Thoughts
Getting cosmetic treatments for dark skin doesn’t have to be tricky; it just requires a few thoughtful steps to keep your skin glowing and healthy. Remember, your skin is unique embrace its natural beauty and treat it with care. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy all the benefits of cosmetic treatments, safely and beautifully.
Book a consultation with a dermatologist who specializes in skin of colour, and step confidently into your journey of self-care and enhancement!
Medically Reviewed by Dr Mathobele