On social media, some skin-care compounds have been criticised for possibly harming melanin-rich skin. Which of them harm and which are secure and efficient? Here are the five skin-care procedures that are most effective on skin with a lot of melanin.
1. Acids for Melanin Rich Skin
Today, skin (and hair) care products contain lactic and glycolic acid concentrations over the roof—15%. Though acid may seem harsh, alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs, are an excellent substitute for exfoliating, reducing oil production, and improving [skin’s] texture. Chemical peels, which can help even skin tone, also involve acids.
However, overuse of these acids can cause hyperpigmentation and skin irritation, which is troublesome for skin types with deeper pigmentation. But generally speaking, if you have rosacea or sensitive skin, you should use additional caution while using AHAs. To avoid making your illness worse, start cautiously.
Use a rinse-off cleanser with a lactic or glycolic acid base twice or thrice weekly. For a more radiant complexion, dead skin cells are gently exfoliated.
Beta-hydroxy acids like salicylic acid are found in cleanser formulas suggested for those with acne-prone skin. It is soluble in water for alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). Oil-soluble compounds often have an easier time penetrating the lipid layers that separate skin cells.
2. Try Retinol
Retinol is adored for its ability to brighten and smooth skin by promoting cell growth and collagen synthesis. In addition to fading surface pigment, retinol can also lessen wrinkles and fine lines.
Don’t overdo it because your skin may need some time to get used to the substance. She advises retinol lotion use to begin two to three times per week and gradually increase to daily use over four to six weeks.
3. Add an Antioxidant
Vitamin C works so well against hyperpigmentation because it inhibits yrosinase, the enzyme that causes the skin to generate melanin.
Its antioxidant capabilities also aid in minimising solar damage. Use it combined with retinol and, of course, sunscreen to treat hyperpigmentation.
All concentrations of vitamin C, which normally range from 10 to 40 percent, are safe for use on skin with a lot of melanin. Higher concentrations of vitamin C can, in general, irritate the skin more sensitive skin. Antioxidant is frequently offered as serum.
4. Use Hydroquinone based products
Hydroquinone, a skin-lightening substance, can generate debate. The CARES Act, which classed it as a prescription drug in 2020, restricted its usage in over-the-counter products. Before that, you could buy products with a maximum of 2% hydroquinone. However, doctors might still recommend it as a short-term treatment to successfully diminish hyperpigmentation by suppressing tyrosinase.
Although it can cure hyperpigmentation, if you use it wrongly, it could actually darken your skin.
5. Use SPF 30 and Higher
To avoid sunburn, hyperpigmentation, or undoing the benefits of the above-mentioned compounds, you must wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. To protect your skin reapply every two hours.
Although Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 has the normal thick, white, creamy texture of sunscreen, it completely disappears to expose radiant skin. Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ is totally transparent, allowing you to apply it on your face easily. Mel’s No Shade Sunscreen Oil, which offers more glow, is the product to use if you desire it.
Amanda Kristol 
Stella Hawke