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Apr 27, 2011

Taking care of ethnic skin as it ages


Women and men with dark skin have the advantage of looking younger as they age when compared to their light-skinned counterparts, due to higher levels of protective melanin.


However, skin issues do arise and they may be different than what Caucasians experience, so it's important to know what to expect in older age and how skin problems can be addressed. Dr. Susan Taylor shares some of her tips on BrownSkin.net.


A change in skin texture may be the first thing that an African American woman notices as she gets older. This is caused by skin cells clumping together, and may be remedied by exfoliating the area or using products for black skin.


Black women and those with dark complexions may also experience dermatosis papulosa nigra, which are groups of small, benign growths on the skin. They can be brown or black and look similar to moles. The growths are not harmful, and can be removed fairly easily by dermatologists.


Skin discoloration - whether it be darker or lighter - is also common in ethnic women as they age. Dark spots can often be treated with fade cream for black skin, but women should look for brands that do not contain the harmful bleaching agent hydroquinone. There are currently no treatments for individuals with light spots.


Finally, all skin types experience sagging with age. To prevent this, be sure to keep hydrated, wear sunscreen and use a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type.  

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