For years, the “dewy skin” aesthetic has dominated the beauty world, promoting a seemingly effortless, lit-from-within glow as the epitome of healthy skin. But can this universally coveted look be realistically achieved, particularly for Africa’s darker skin tones with unique characteristics and concerns?
First of, not all Africans have dark or black skin and black Africans aren’t the only race in Africa. It is imperative that we point this out for context and for inclusivity as we represent Africa and all Africans. While most people associate Africans with dark skin, different regions and races of people have existed in Africa for millenias and Africa has almost every skin color on the planet, from deepest black in the Dinka of South Sudan to lighter skin tones in North Africa and beige amongst Afrikkans of South Africa. Even among black Africans we have a vibrant palette of beautiful skin tones. This article explores the allure of dewy skin and its reality for melanin-rich skin tones which is the dominant skin tone in Africa.
Understanding Melanin-rich Skin Tones
Darker African skin tones are so because they are richly blessed with melanin, the pigment responsible for its diverse range of beautiful hues. Melanin provides superior protection against sun damage but can also contribute to concerns like hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. It is essential to remember that even melanin-rich African skin tones are not monolithic, and specific needs can vary based on individual factors like genetics, climate, and lifestyle.
Why Dewy Skin Might Not Be the Ideal for Everyone
While achieving a radiant, healthy look is universally desirable, it is crucial to understand why the dewy skin trend might not be the most suitable approach for melanin-rich skin type:
- Misconstruing Oil for Dew: Dewy skin often gets misconstrued with oily skin. While a healthy, subtle glow is certainly attractive, excessive oil on the skin surface can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.
- Prioritizing Hydration Over Shine: Most melanin-rich skin tones tend to be drier than other skin tones. Therefore, to achieve a radiant look, the focus should be on proper hydration, which plumps the skin and fosters a natural, healthy bounce. Hyaluronic acid and ceramides are excellent hydrating ingredients for melanin-rich skin tones.
- Hyperpigmentation Concerns: Shimmery or pearlescent products commonly used to create a dewy effect can sometimes accentuate hyperpigmentation in deeper melanin-rich skin tones. Opting for lightweight, hydrating foundations that even skin tone without appearing greasy is a better approach.
Celebrating Your Natural Radiance
Instead of chasing an elusive, one-size-fits-all beauty standard (created for other races), let us celebrate the inherent radiance and beauty of our melanin-rich skin. Here is a skincare routine tailored by our in-house skincare expert to help you to achieve a healthy, balanced glow:
- Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle, sulphate-free cleanser to remove impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
- Exfoliation is Key: Regularly exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and promote faster skin cell turnover. Go for chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs over harsh scrubs that can irritate sensitive skin.
- Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize: Consistent use of a lightweight, oil-free
moisturizer, both day and night, is crucial for keeping skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and aloevera, all known to be beneficial for African skin. - Sunscreen is Essential: Daily sunscreen use is non-negotiable for all skin types, including melanin-rich skin. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 50 or higher that is non-comedogenic and oil-free to prevent sun damage without clogging pores.
- Embrace Facial Oils: Facial oils can be a great way to add an extra layer of hydration, especially for drier melanin-rich skin types. Look for lightweight, non- comedogenic oils like jojoba oil, marula oil, or baobab oil.
Makeup for Melanin-Rich Skin
Try these makeup tips to enhance your natural beauty and complement your unique
skin tone:
- Choosing the Right Foundation: A lightweight, oil-free foundation that perfectly matches your skin tone is a better option for you. Look for hydrating foundations with buildable coverage to achieve flawless, even-toned skin without looking cakey.
- Cream Blush for a Natural Flush: Cream blushes blend seamlessly into melanin rich skin and add a natural flush of color, enhancing your features without appearing harsh.
- Strategic Highlighting: Apply highlighter strategically to the tops of your cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid’s bow to create a subtle, natural glow. Cream or liquid highlighters that blend easily into your skin tone are highly recommended, to avoid excessive shimmer or glitter that can accentuate hyperpigmentation.
Embrace Your Unique Beauty
Melanated skin is beautiful, and it is important to remember that achieving a healthy glow doesn’t require chasing fleeting trends. By focusing on proper hydration, using the right products, and embracing your natural radiance, you can celebrate the unique beauty and inherent glow of your melanin-rich skin.
