Better Skincare for Women of Color
By: Mia Jones, Social Media and Marketing Coordinator at WOC
Skincare is always the first and last part of my day. Why? Because I wear my skin proudly and want to ensure I look my best no matter what comes my way.
As women of color in fundraising and philanthropy, we face a multitude of both triumphs and challenges in our professional and personal lives from early morning board meetings to evening events. That’s why self-care is crucial.
Taking care of our skin is an important way to put ourselves first every day. Because of the melanin in our skin, women of color have skin concerns that others might not experience, including hyperpigmentation, dry or oily skin. Along with those concerns, our skin encounters dirt and other environmental irritants. Cleansing, moisturizing and treating our skin protect it from harmful effects. Building a skincare routine can be tricky, but with the right tips and tricks, your skin can be on its way to glory. When it comes to skincare, consistency is key to see results.
REMOVE YOUR MAKEUP:
We have all heard it umpteen times, but always remove your makeup at the end of the day. Leaving makeup on for prolonged periods of time clogs your pores. Taking the time to remove your makeup will help keep your skin healthy. There are a multitude of products that can do the trick such as micellar water, cleansing oils or makeup wipes.
PRO TIP:
Keeping your makeup brushes clean will prevent the build-up of bacteria and dirt on them. Experts suggest washing your makeup brushes every week. Having clean makeup brushes gives a better makeup application as well!
Taking care of our skin is an important way to put ourselves first every day.
CLEANSER:
Cleansing creates a clean and clear skin canvas. This step is essential if you want your skin to soak up all the love and hydration you give it. When choosing a cleanser, opt for one that addresses your skin concern or preference. Based on your skin type, you may try a gentle cleanser, oil-control or hydrating cleanser.
EXFOLIATOR:
Exfoliating the skin 1-2 times a week gets rid of dirt build-up, dead skin cells and blackheads. Try focusing on target areas like the forehead, nose and chin that tend to the oiliest parts of the face. Exfoliating will give your skin a more even and youthful appearance—making you look even better for all those video calls!
TONER:
Toner is an essential step in a skincare routine even though some women leave it out of their routine. Toner cleans out trapped dirt and oils and also balances the pH of your skin. Toner can as well be used as a hyperpigmentation treatment and to even skin tone.
SERUM:
Serums are those juicy products that will target problem areas. You can find a serum for any skin issue from anti-aging to hydration or balancing skin tone. Vitamin C is a bonus ingredient to serum to help fade dark spots and brighten the skin. When applying serum, pat the product into your skin for the product to absorb and enjoy the full benefit.
MOISTURIZER:
Moisturizer is going to lock in all those great products you just applied to the skin while keeping it hydrated. Hydrating the skin is important for all skin types. During AM use, try using a lightweight moisturizer that contains SPF to prevent damage to the skin and from becoming oily throughout the day (more on sunscreen later!) Using heavier creams at night allows time for absorption, hydrating and rejuvenation so you have healthy skin the next day.
EYE CREAM:
Eye cream is essential to tackle everyday issues such as puffy eyes and dark circles while also delaying telltale signs of aging. The under eye area is sensitive and prone to fine lines and deeper wrinkles. When applying eye cream, use your ring finger for the least amount of pressure to prevent tugging the skin.
SPF:
Women of color often hear the myth our skin does not burn. While we may not always see the damage to our skin, it is there! Sunscreen is a must-have product in your AM routine. Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays that cause sunspots, aging and wrinkles. There are several easy ways to add SPF into your routine. Try using a moisturizer with SPF or a lightweight SPF. SPF is your friend!
I know you are as proud of the skin you’re in as I am. Making the effort to give it the care it deserves will show it!
Mia Jones, Social Media and Marketing Coordinator for WOC
Mia Jones is the Social Media and Marketing Coordinator for WOC. She graduated from Oklahoma State University with a B.S. in Fashion Merchandising and was the co-producer and two-time chair of the Oklahoma State Euphoria Fashion Show from 2017-2019. Mia’s involvement with fashion and beauty led her to work with the fashion show HER| ART hosted by The Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women in 2017. The fashion show showcases female fashion designers from across the country.
Mia was a chair of the Stillwater, Oklahoma Wings of Hope Fashion Show which raises awareness for domestic violence against women. Her goal when producing events is to take those attending on a meaningful journey. Mia is currently a Marketing Communications Intern at Miriam Baker based in Toronto, Canada. She is working to facilitate conversations that encourage women to be confident in their bodies and is passionate about focusing awareness on the importance of womanhood and championing the beauty of all women.
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