Everything you need to know about lightening creams and serums for black and mixed-race skin
Many cosmetic products available on the market are sold as “ lightening ” or “ whitening .” Whether due to beauty standards or social pressure, these products are in high demand in certain regions of Africa. But what are the risks of whitening products? How can they be differentiated from unifying and anti-blemish creams ?
Kanu Skincare, a skincare brand specializing in melanin-rich skin , tells you everything you need to know about lightening creams and serums.
What are the risks of whitening creams?
Whitening products in the form of creams or body lotions are mostly made with ingredients designed to reduce the production of melanin , the pigment that gives skin its color. While they can be used to treat skin conditions like hyperpigmentation, whitening creams can pose certain risks.
Many of them are composed of controversial substances. This is the case with hydroquinone (banned in several countries), mercury, and lead, which can cause irritation, inflammation, and skin reactions with serious side effects for consumers.
Hyperpigmentation
1) What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin problem in black skin, manifesting as pigment spots , acne scars , and melasma , also known as pregnancy mask. It is linked to an overproduction of melanin in response to skin inflammation. Black skin is more likely to develop hyperpigmentation due to the higher concentration of melanin than light skin.
Hyperpigmentation spots can be scattered or localized on certain parts of the body and can sometimes create complexes.
2) Are there any solutions for hyperpigmentation?
The unique pigmentation of black, tanned or mixed-race skin requires specific care to maintain a radiant and even complexion.
Some cosmetic products are lightening and help fade dark spots. They are typically formulated with ingredients such as kojic acid, vitamin C, and alpha-arbutin, which are known for their lightening and pigmentation-regulating properties. Additionally, these creams and serums provide extra hydration, which is especially beneficial for dark skin, which is often prone to dryness.
3) Kanu Skincare, the specialist brand for melanin-rich skin
Kanu Skincare, a cosmetics brand specially designed for black, tanned and mixed-race skin, offers a range of treatments with its Kanu Essential Kit composed of 3 products: a cleanser, a moisturizer and a brightening serum.
The lightening serum , specially formulated to address hyperpigmentation issues , is made from ingredients carefully selected for their unifying properties:
- Niacinamide is a natural active ingredient also known as vitamin B3 that has anti-inflammatory properties . It helps improve skin texture, treats hyperpigmentation and reduces redness.
- Alpha -arbutin fights the formation of dark spots and evens out the skin by fading existing spots.
- Licorice root extract is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The daily moisturizer also contains high-quality ingredients that moisturize, restore and brighten the skin, such as jojoba seed oil and carrot seed oil.
Kanu Skincare's tips for radiant, beautiful skin
Having beautiful skin is no easy task! Kanu Skincare shares its tips for radiant skin.
First of all, adopt a routine adapted to the needs of your skin with gentle cleansing, regular exfoliation (1 to 2 times per week maximum) as well as daily moisturizing.
For tanning enthusiasts, excessive exposure to the sun's UV rays can have harmful effects on the skin. UV rays can contribute to premature aging of the skin, they can cause forms of hyperpigmentation and even increase the risk of skin cancer.
It's essential to protect yourself and your skin : wear a hat and sunglasses, and above all, make sure to apply sunscreen to your body and face. Avoid exposure between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., the hottest time of day.
Finally, it is recommended to apply SPF 50 sunscreen daily to protect the skin.
