Botox, fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels – the list of skin-enhancing treatments is long. But which treatments are safe for darker skin? When it comes to basic skin care and cosmetic treatments, it pays to know what's best for your skin. To avoid potential problems, follow these guidelines.
Basic skin care Good skin starts with a solid skincare routine that's right for your skin type. Determine if you have dry, oily or combination skin and use products designed for your needs. People with darker skin may be more prone to uneven skin tone, discoloration, excess oil and scarring. If you have darker skin and acne-prone skin, try to stay ahead. This will help reduce the risk of developing acne scars or hyperpigmentation. Antibiotics, retinoids and vitamin A fortified products are considered safe for all skin types.
A reminder:The sun's harmful rays affect everyone, even those who don't burn easily. So make sure to apply sunscreen every day or use a moisturizer with SPF.
Safe use for cosmetic treatments
Anti-aging and rejuvenation: as we age, our skin begins to produce less collagen and other substances that make our skin more resilient. Forehead wrinkles and lines between the eyebrows can be safely treated with Botox, and those with darker skin may benefit from injections. If you want to restore lost volume on the cheeks or minimize deep creases around the mouth, hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Juvéderm are an excellent option. Hyaluronic acid fillers are well tolerated by most people and can be used on all skin types.
Scar repair: Skin injuries such as scratches, acne and piercing can lead to scarring. A keloid scar is a type of scar that occurs when scar tissue grows excessively — and people with darker skin are more likely to develop them. Fortunately, there are laser treatments that can reduce their appearance.
Treatments to avoid
Laser resurfacing: laser treatments are associated with certain complications for darker skin. The treatment can cause superficial burns on the skin, which can lead to discoloration. However, laser technology has improved in recent years, so talk to your doctor about your skin color risk factors.
Deep Chemical Peels: Chemical peels are available in different strengths. While stronger peels can achieve excellent results, they carry the risk of scarring. Lighter chemical peels can be safe and effective depending on your skin type.
Some safe alternatives to lasers and deep chemical peels include microdermabrasion and microneedling. To avoid serious damage, consult your doctor about the benefits and risks of resurfacing treatments.
