Black Skin Care for Acne

KIKI CARR

Have you ever wondered what are the BEST black skin care products for acne? It’s a fair question because the skin is delicate and most acne treatments tend to be very harsh. They are designed to burn the acne or dry it out. Although that can be bad for any skin color, it is especially harmful for black skin. Black skin has melanin and when injured a dark mark known as hyperpigmentation will remain at the site of injury.

Therefore, the best black skin care products for acne are MOISTURIZING! Products that moisturize and lock in moisture are the best types of products to treat acne. Acne is a condition in which the skin produces an excess of oil. Introducing products enriched with moisture helps to bring balance to the skin, countering the over production of oil.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

What Is Acne?

Contrary to popular belief acne is not caused by greasy food, dairy, pop, or chocolate. Can those things contribute to the condition? SURE! But those things are certainly not the cause. Acne or P. Acnes is a condition of the skin in which the pores become clogged. Once clogged, bacteria grows causing the surrounding area to become inflamed.

Why Do I Have Acne?

Acne is a state or condition of skin. For Example, a rash is not something that is permanent when properly treated. Like a rash, acne is not permanent. Acne is simply the current state or condition the skin is in. Most likely you have acne because of your skin TYPE! There are 3 genetic skin types: normal, dry, and oily. Majority of people with acne have the oily skin type.

What Skin Care Routine is Best for Me?

A good skin care routine for oily acne prone skin should include an amazing cleanser, a toner, a moisturizer, a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF (for the day) and an oil (for the night). This regimen helped me and it is the regimen I recommend for black skin as a black esthetician.

All Natural Black Owned Skincare

#TargetStyle

Cleanser

cerave for oily skin

The Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser contains Hyaluronic Acid, an all natural intensive moisturizing agent. The cleanser is paraben free, dermatologist tested and recommended for oily skin. The Cerave hydrating face cleanser works by optimizing the skin barriers so that it functions efficiently.

Toner

oily skin toner

Thayers Witch Hazel contains ingredients used for centuries in beauty. Aloe (nicknamed the plant of immortality by the Egyptians) and Witch Hazel. Witch Hazel has been used to treat oily skin for decades. Witch hazel is an all natural pore constrictor. As the pores are constricted oil is reduced.

Serum

black skin care for acne

Acne is inflammatory and inflammation causes hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C is a skin brightener and lightener. The Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum restores youthful luminosity to skin and brightens uneven skin tone leaving the skin glowing.

Moisturizer

black skin care for acne

Helps lock in moisture & maintain balance. Tula 24-7 Moisture Hydrating Day & Night Cream calms the look of irritation, helps nourish and firm. This moisturizer contains the ingredient squalane, which minimizes oil by mimicking sebum.

Oil

black skin care for acne

Sunday Riley Acne Treatment Face Oil is the best product for anyone looking for a fast acting miracle product. This oil has everything needed to fight acne, clear pores, treat and prevent blackheads as well as fade dark spots. This is literally clear skin in a bottle.

Sunscreen

sun screen for black skin

The importance of sunscreen is truly undervalued.Sunscreen is necessary to protect the skin from harmful sun rays and critical in the fading of hyperpigmentation. It is recommended to use a sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30. Black Girl Sunscreen has an SPF of 45, is water resistant and fragrance free.

Consistently stripping the skin of its oil will only cause more to be produced. The key to clearer skin is hydration. Oily skin needs balance. Hydrating products are imperative in an oily skin care regimen.

The Luxuries

Face Mask
Face Steamer

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Neutrogena HydroGel Mask

$2.99

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

$14.99

Black Girl SunScreen

$21.23

Thayers Facial Toner

$10.99

Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum

$45.00

Tula Hydrating Day & Night Cream

$24.00

Sunday Riley Acne Face Oil

$40.00

Conair Facial Sauna

$41.99

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About the Author, KiKi Carr

  • Cosmetic Formulations Chemist
  • Licensed Aesthetician
  • Makeup Artist
  • Educator

Hard Lump Ingrown Hair

KiKi Carr

Ingrown hair vag treatments have taken the internet by storm. Vag facials, or Vajacials, are intimate area treatments performed by a medical Aesthetician. Vajacials treat the pubic area for dark spots, ingrown hairs, and other conditions of the skin.

Besides ingrown hairs Vajacials also treat dry skin, texture, discoloration and more. There are instances in which an ingrown hair will turn into a hard lump under the skin causing a pubic hair infection. Hard lump ingrown hairs are inflamed, painful and should be treated by a professional.

hard lump ingrown hair pubic hair infection

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

What Is An Ingrown Hair?

Cutting hair at the surface of the skin, by razor or a chemical depilatory such as Nair, makes it blunt. Once blunt, the hair is prickly and instead of growing out it stabs into the skin where it becomes trapped. The hair then can not grow out of the follicle as intended. It grows beneath the skin.

Why Do I Have Ingrowns?

Ingrown hairs occur after hair removal. Hair removal requires an aftercare routine. A good routine should consist of an exfoliator to prevent the build up of dead skin.

How Can I Avoid Ingrowns?

It’s best to trim the hair down instead of shave. If you do shave, using an exfoliating soap is an easy and effective way to treat and prevent ingrowns. Waxing can also help with ingrowns. However, you will need to use a product like Tend Skin for aftercare.

If you would like to treat mild ingrown hairs at home click here to learn how.

About the Author, KiKi Carr

  • Cosmetic Formulations Chemist
  • Licensed Aesthetician
  • Makeup Artist
  • Educator

Does Facial Oils Clog Pores?

KIKI CARR

FACE OILS!!!

With all of the different opinions about face oils I bet you’ve been left wondering does facial oils clog pores?This story is going to debunk a lot of myths and assumptions about applying oil to acne prone skin. Oils act as a protective barrier for the skin. Immediately after applying moisturizing products the environment begins to steal them from your skin. Applying an oil as the last step in your skin care regimen is incredibly beneficial. Face oils are the secret weapon for glowing clear skin.

Facial oils do NOT clog pores. It is logical to assume face oils clog pores. However, they actually do the opposite. Face oils form a barrier for the skin, locking moisture in and keeping debris out. Clogged pores are caused by blockages like dead skin. Unlike obstructions, the skin is able to absorb face oils. Face oils are good for break outs.

Sunday Riley is the facial oil gods! Their face oils are pure and will leave the skin glowing. Sunday Riley’s oils are bountiful with antioxidants, vitamins, and other ingredients that promote healthy skin.

Designer Skin @ Sephora

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

facial oils good for breakouts
U.F.O. for Oily Acne Prone

U.F.O.

  • Clears congested pores; treats and prevents acne and blackheads.
  • Help purify the skin and supports clarity.
  • Naturally brighten the appearance of dark spots.
facial oil for breakouts

C.E.O. Glow

  • Promotes even skin tone.
  • Gives your skin a healthy glow and replenishes its moisture barrier with Omega-6.
  • Helps seal the skin with a protective barrier to keep it from losing moisture, making the skin soft and supple.
facial oil for dark spots

Juno

  • Helps alleviate dehydration and boost radiance.
  • Helps to combat the signs of congested skin.
  • Supports elasticity with beta-carotene. Improves the appearance of the complexion.
facial oil for clear skin

Luna

  • Wonderful for soothing the look of redness.
  • Plumps fine lines.
  • Powerful source of ALA, which helps minimize the appearance of lines.
facial oil for acne
Consult Doctor before use if nursing or pregnant.

Although oils are necessary for all skin types, some oils aren’t good facial oils. The skin on the body is thicker. Coco butter and coconut oil are amazing body oils, but these oils will definitely clog pores on the face.

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Dynamic Duo


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About the Author, KiKi Carr

  • Cosmetic Formulations Chemist
  • Licensed Aesthetician
  • Makeup Artist
  • Educator
contour nose before and after

Best Products For Nose Contouring

KiKi Carr

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

Contouring is a technique that helps to pop and define our features. Although it seems like everyone is using the contouring and highlighting technique they aren’t. Til this very day many women still would like to learn how to contour. If you have ever wondered specifically how to contour your nose and what products to use for contouring and highlighting keep on reading.

If you want to contour the nose you will need a fluffy angled brush. An angled brush is sometimes referred to as a cutting brush. They are slanted and the top of the brush is pointy. That point easily fits in grooves and corners. Angled brushes make clean straight lines. A nose contouring brush should also be fluffy. Fluffy brushes are used for blending.

MAC Cosmetics 275 Synthetic Medium Angled Shading Brush

Watch This Video For A Demo

It doesn’t matter if you have a wide or narrow nose the concept and purpose of using this technique is the same. Contouring and highlighting isn’t about changing your features. Sure it’s slimming and if you love tacos like me that is ok with you. However, the purpose of contouring and highlighting is to bring forth the areas of the face in which light naturally hits and recede the portions it doesn’t.

As a makeup artist I say all the time that great makeup is all about tools and techniques. Once I started using an angled shading brush to contour my nose it got so much more precise and EASIER! The brush literally does all the work. If you are new to contouring this brush is a must have.

If you are looking to contour and highlight having the proper tools will make the task of precision a piece of cake.

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About the Author, KiKi Carr

  • Cosmetic Formulations Chemist
  • Licensed Aesthetician
  • Makeup Artist
  • Educator

5 Reasons You Need A Facial

KIKI CARR

Many people feel a facial is a special occasion thing, but it is not. There are many benefits to getting a professional facial regularly. The sun, pollution, hormonal fluctuations, poor diet and habits such as smoking all take a toll on the look and feel of skin. Facials combat those damaging elements as well as improve circulation and promote detoxification.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

Here are 5 Reason you need a facial:

Education

  • Learn your skin and how to care for it.
  • Receive expert analysis.
  • Get professional advice unique to you.

Medical Advantages

  • Have access to medical grade products and modalities such as Microdermabrasion, chemical peels, Microneedling and Electrotherapy.
  • Treat and prevent. An Aesthetician can treat and prevent moderate skin conditions such as acne and identify severe conditions such as skin cancer.
  • Professional and effective care. Facials deliver results.

Stress Reliever

  • Heat & Aroma therapy.
  • Massage pressure points and areas that hold tension.
  • A listening ear.

Look Better

  • Clearer and brighter complexion.
  • Fresh and youthful appearance.
  • Cleaned pores.

You Deserve It!

  • Self care.
  • Rewarding.
  • Relaxing.

If you have problematic skin such as acne, the first few facials can result in a purge. A purge happens when underlying skin conditions are brought to the surface. Remaining consistent with your facials and being diligent about your home care regimen will produce incredible results over time.

Facials address the current state of the skin. After a facial you should look better, be informed, feel uplifted and re-energized.

Life gets busy and it can be hard to make time for a facial. Here are some things you can do at home to look and feel your best.

  • Soak With Dr. Teals
    • Lavender salt and bubble bath ease aches & pains, soothes the mind and nourishes skin.
  • Affirm yourself with Cassandra Mack
    • Bible based affirmations for mental health and clarity.

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$55

$15.99

$10

Complimentary Tools

Mask Mates

$7.99

Facial Massage Jade Roller

$9.99

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Toners for Oily Skin

KIKI CARR

When it comes to skincare, people want results fast! Many people use actives every day and in every step of their skin care routine. BIG MISTAKE!

STOP OVER USING ACTIVES!

The skin needs nurturing, babying, and most importantly time. A good skincare regimen should consist mostly of products that contain ingredients which nourish the skin like Ceramides. Actives are OK but use should be limited to about 3 times a week.

It can be difficult to decide which skin care product should contain active ingredients. Toners are a good way to slip actives into your skin care routine. They are inexpensive, primarily gentle and keep the pores clean. Here are some great toners sold at Target for oily skin.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

Skin Care @

Oil Control

Thayers Witch Hazel

  • Offers antioxidant benefits, antibacterial benefits, and brings about a natural glow
  • No added parabens, phthalates, sulfates, or artificial fragrances or dyes. 100% cruelty-free

$10.99


Acne

La Roche – Posay

  • Breakouts are reduced
  • Skin feels smoother, softer, and looks healthier

$23.99


Texture

Mario Badescu

  • Brightens and balances skin
  • Promotes a more radiant, even and youthful-looking complexion

$18.00


Dark Spots

No 7

  • 2% Vitamin C brightening complex
  • Suitable for all skin types

$14.99

Toners are a great way to incorporate actives into your current skin care routine. It is important to read the directions and safety guidelines of any product that has active ingredients, especially when pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breast feeding.


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Makeup but First Skincare

mac blush for dark skin

MAC Blush Shades for Dark Skin

KIKI CARR

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

First things first, it’s gonna look right on you. Every color looks amazing against melanin. PERIOD! Now, with that out of the way …

Spring has SPRUNG!!!

It’s time to take our look from muted to vibrant. One way is to add a splash of color to the cheeks. Blushes add the perfect pop of color to the face. They can be worn as a flush of color or layered to build intensity. Pinks, peaches, and reds worn as blush colors add a little something special to every spring makeup look.

With all of the different choices we have now-a-days, narrowing down a good blush can feel daunting. There is an array of color choices and textures. Not to mention the lingering thought in the back of our minds about color pay off.

MAC Cosmetics nailed it with their satin and matte blushes. They are completely decadent and at a price you’ll love! These blushes will definitely brighten your spring look during the day and liven up your complexion for summer nights.

Full Fuchsia

Satin Blush. Intense color. Bright. Beautiful. Showstopping!

$25

Frankly Scarlet

Matte Blush. PERFECT color. Vivid. Stunning. Fantastic!

$25

Pink Swoon

Satin Blush. Barbie pink. Breath taking. Gorgeous. Rich!

$25

Buy all 3!

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About the Author, KiKi Carr

  • Cosmetic Formulations Chemist
  • Licensed Aesthetician
  • Makeup Artist
  • Educator

3 Reasons Dark Skin Need Sunscreen Too!

KIKI CARR

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.

First thing to know is there’s a difference between sunscreen and sunblock. A sunscreen absorb ultraviolet (UV) rays while a sunblock reflect and prevent UV rays from striking the skin. Blockers are equivalent to wearing a large brimmed hat. Some sunscreens contain sun blocking ingredients. It is important to use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and one that protects from both UVA and UVB rays. These types of sunscreens are considered broad spectrum.

If you don’t currently have a broad spectrum sunscreen in your skin care regimen here are 3 reasons to start using one now.

1.) Pre-mature Aging

Sun exposure is the number one cause of pre-mature aging. Studies show that 90% of wrinkles are caused by the sun while only 10% are attributed to aging.

2.) Sun Burns

Prolonged exposure to the sun without protection can cause the skin to burn and peel.

2.) Skin Cancer

Sun exposure is the number one cause of skin cancer. Over 80% of skin cancers are caused by over exposure to UV rays.

Black Girl Sunscreen was formulated for every day use and can be incorporated into your normal skincare routine. It fights against sun damage, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and protects your skin from harmful UVA & UVB rays. The best part is this sunscreen is moisturizing and won’t leave a white cast.

As with all cosmetic products it is important to thoroughly cleanse the skin at night. Going to bed without washing the day away can present new and troublesome problems within the skin. Sunscreens are necessary for every skin type and regimen. Everyone should protect their skin from harmful UV rays.

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Black Girl Sunscreen

Makeup but First Skincare is a video series in which I teach women of color how to get rid of dark spots and acne at home. If that sounds like something that is of interest to you SUBSCRIBE!