I've got a special treat for you today!
My girl Ashley Smith is blessing us with her skincare tips and advice for black women over 40! Ashley is an aesthetician out of Atlanta, Georgia with over 20 years in the skincare game. Enjoy!
5 Skincare Tips for Black Women in Their 40's
by Ashley Smith, Licensed Aesthetician
We always hear that “black don’t crack”, however, aging is inevitable, regardless of race and skin tone. And as a licensed aesthetician with over 20 years of experience, I know one thing’s for sure and that is that every woman desires to have a youthful, glowing complexion. That being said, as black women, we age differently-and have different skincare concerns.
The reason we age differently is because of higher sebum content and larger amounts of melanin in our skin. Melanin is, of course, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. Having larger amounts of melanin means that we are more likely to experience aging in the form of post-inflammatory pigmentation and uneven skin tone.
And although our skin is less susceptible to “cracking” aka fine lines and wrinkles, the gradual loss of collagen and skin elasticity in your 40s means you’ll find your skin sags a little more and seems less resilient.
Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to minimize the signs of aging.
Daily at-home skin care is absolutely necessary, however, there is unmatched value in getting an expert analysis of YOUR skin. By working regularly with someone who knows your skin, you can get advice on the best products and foods for your skin; have access to procedures that keep aging and other potential skin issues at bay; and minimize existing
By your 40's, products containing antioxidants, such as Green Tea Extract, should definitely be a part of your skincare holy grail. Antioxidants are damage defenders that help slow skin aging. They protect the skin by limiting free radical production, which can damage the skin. With daily use, they can reduce sun spots, help combat visible signs of aging and calm skin inflammations. Antioxidants also provide the skin with hydration and increase moisture retention to help revitalize dull-looking skin.
3. DON’T Over-Exfoliate
A common misconception when it comes to black skin is that it’s somehow tougher because it’s darker and that it can “take it”. Because of this dangerous myth, many women are actually guilty of over-exfoliating. Improper exfoliation can disrupt your skin's natural equilibrium, causing it to overproduce sebum (or underproduce it) and makes the skin more susceptible to hyperpigmentation. If you’re guilty of this, products with natural, brightening ingredients such as turmeric can help to promote an even skin tone.
Your skin repairs itself while you sleep, so if you don’t get enough of it, it will show – in the form of a pale, ashy skin tone and more pronounced wrinkles and under eye circles. Shoot for 7 – 8 hours a night.
5. DON’T Forget to Moisturize.
With age, our skin begins to produce less oil and there is a breakdown of elastic and collagen fibers. The skin becomes drier and thinner with more laxity. A proper skin care regimen includes products that strengthen and thicken the dermis, provide moisture retention and barrier renewal, and are not too harsh or abrasive. Natural ingredients such as rosewater balances, soothes and hydrates; honey extract and coconut milk boosts moisture, while apple saccharides help maintain moisture all day.
And there you have it! The basics of skincare for black women in their 40s. Now that we’ve identified some of the most effective actions and ingredients, it’s up to you to put it into practice and be consistent! Over time, you’re guaranteed to see an improvement in your skin’s overall health and appearance.
Ashley can be found at Fuzion Beauty Studio in Atlanta, Ga.