The pigmentation of black and mixed-race skin is a distinctive feature that gives beauty and individuality. However, they can be prone to various disorders that require special attention.

Kanu Skincare, a cosmetics brand specializing in products for melanin-rich skin, is committed to providing effective solutions to address these various pigmentation-related issues .

What is the origin of skin pigmentation?

The pigmentation of black skin is determined by the amount and type of melanin it contains.

Melanin is a natural pigment produced by skin cells called melanocytes, located between the dermis and the epidermis.

There are two main forms of melanin: eumelanin , which is black/brown in color, and pheomelanin , which is orange in color. Depending on their concentration , this explains the diversity of skin colors. It therefore determines the phototype , i.e. the color of the skin, hair and eyes.

Melanin concentration is higher in people with black, tanned and mixed skin than in people with light skin.

What are the disorders of black skin?

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common disorders of black skin. It manifests itself by dark pigment spots , persistent acne marks, or melasma (also called chloasma) which can appear during pregnancy and is explained by an overproduction of melanin.

Dark skin tends to produce more melanin, making it more prone to hyperpigmentation.

The causes of hyperpigmentation can be multiple and include:

• sun exposure;
• skin trauma (spots, etc.);
• hormonal disturbances and changes;
• acne…

Hypopigmentation 

Hypopigmentation is characterized by the loss of skin color in certain areas of the body and can also affect black skin. Depigmentation is when the pigment is completely lost and the skin turns white.

Pigmentation loss can occur locally or diffusely depending on the pathology. It is most often caused by an injury, a burn, chemical exposure or even an inflammatory dermatosis (inflammations such as psoriasis, eczema, etc.).

Other pathologies related to melanin can occur. This is the case of vitiligo , which can occur at any age and manifests itself by light spots of different sizes.

Overexposure to the sun can also lead to overproduction of melanin in an effort to protect itself, but this overproduction is not always well controlled, which can lead to skin depigmentation problems.

Preventive measures against skin disorders 

Excessive exposure to UV rays can cause pigmentation problems, generate wrinkles and increase the risk of skin cancer . That's why sunscreen is essential. Use sunscreen daily on your face with an SPF 50 adapted to your skin type, even on cloudy days! Also, avoid exposure during the hottest hours of the day (between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.). Cover yourself with a hat and sunglasses.

It goes without saying that skin health is reflected in good hydration . An effective moisturizer keeps skin supple and helps prevent dryness, irritation, and wrinkles. Also, remember to drink at least 1.5 liters of water a day.

The Kanu Skincare Solution

Kanu Skincare, a specialist cosmetics brand for dark skin, offers a range of innovative products that meet the needs of melanin-rich skin .

Every skin type is unique, and taking care of it is essential. Adopt a new routine with the Kanu Skincare kit, which includes a cleanser with zinc PCA and ceramides, a serum with niacinamide, and a moisturizer rich in shea butter and various seed oils. Deeply nourish your skin while promoting cell regeneration and the lightening of dark spots for an even, radiant complexion.