BLACK HISTORY MONTH BUT MAKE IT SKINNY PART I

4 Things They Don’t Teach You About Black Skin

I don’t know about you, but Black History Month hasn’t hit the same since primary school. And as we step into the Black month of October, it’s only right we honour not just the culture and resilience — but our skin itself.

Black skin is beautifully complex, biologically unique, and often misunderstood in mainstream skincare conversations. So let’s take a moment to explore what truly makes our skin special and how to care for it with the respect it deserves.

Melanin: Our Built-In Superpower

Black skin contains a higher concentration of melanin — the pigment that gives our skin its beautiful colour — and it offers natural protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays.

But wait! That doesn’t mean we’re immune to sun damage (SPF is still a must because prevention will always be better than cure!). What it does mean is that our skin naturally filters out more ultraviolet radiation, reducing the risk of sunburn and premature photoaging.

Melanin is a scientific gift, one that connects us to generations who have thrived under the sun.

Collagen & Graceful Aging

Our dermis layer — the deeper part of the skin — is thicker and packed with a stronger collagen network. This helps delay the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, which is why Black skin often maintains its firmness and glow for longer.

However, there’s another side to this strength. That same collagen density can make us more prone to certain types of scarring, like keloids. Understanding this helps us deal with our skin gently, not harshly, so we protect our skin’s structure while keeping it healthy.

Moisture & The Skin Barrier

Fact of the day: Black skin loses more water than lighter skin tones — a process called transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

This happens because our skin barrier has slightly fewer protective ceramides, making it more vulnerable to dryness, especially in cold or dry climates.

Basically: hydration isn’t just a step, it’s essential.

Products rich in emollients and ceramides are key for sealing in moisture and strengthening the skin barrier. Think nourishing textures, not stripping ones — your skin will thank you for it.

Honouring the Legacy of Our Skin

Black skin tells a story — of ancestry, adaptation, and artistry. From its biological brilliance to its deep cultural significance, our skin deserves to be celebrated, studied, and cared for with intention.

Let’s continue rewriting the skincare narrative — making room for every shade, every texture, and every beautiful layer of melanin. 🤎

✨ Ready to show your skin the love it deserves?

Book a treatment at The Skin Laboratory - where results meet relaxation, and every facial is tailored to melanin-rich skin.