Not All Equal: An Ingredient Guide for Melanin-Rich Skin 

The bedrock of an exceptional skin regimen lies in the winning combination of ingredient formulations and an adept administration of treatment protocols. However, we must address the elephant in the room regarding the suitability and equality of ingredients within a broad spectrum of formulation choices. When it comes to caring for melanin-rich skin, the concentration and appropriateness of formula combinations are crucial for skin receptivity.

The role of skin professionals is to provide the appropriate recommendations for clients. To do this comprehensively, there needs to be not only a solid grasp of treatment approaches but also an understanding of the ideal selected ingredients and combinations for clients.

ONE SIZE FITS NONE

The reality is, not all ingredients are created equally, and this fact is not always top of mind for clients. Some particularly exceptional ingredients target primary concerns, like hyperpigmentation or lack of radiance. Take, for instance, vitamin C, which has been an industry-wide favorite for quite some time. Its benefits to skin health are numerous, including helping to induce collagen synthesis, brightening skin, and acting as a powerful agent against reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, when it comes to melanin-rich skin, vitamin C may not be the same holy grail ingredient it claims to be. 

Charmaine Cooper, known as The Skin Theologian, is an award-winning international speaker, author, and educator with 28 years in the skin profession. Renowned for her passion and ability to connect with diverse audiences, she has trained skin professionals and educators globally for 24+ years. Cooper’s work emphasizes skin health equity and cultural intelligence, particularly for melanin-rich skin. A recipient of the ACA 2024 favorite contributor award and author of the acclaimed “No Compromise Black Skin Care Guide” series & “Melanin-Rich,” she continues to inspire through her international webinars, media engagements, and transformative workshops. Connect with her on Instagram @theskintheologian.