"Black don't crack." "Black people don't need sunscreen." "Black people can't get skin cancer because we have melanin." As a black woman and experienced Licensed Aesthetician, I can't tell you how many times I have had to educate my clients, family, and friends of all races, but specifically my black clients about the skin myths in our communities. They are hurting us beyond measures. I give the example of Bob Marley's death. He had a very aggressive form of melanoma that affects primarily people of color. I am sure being that he is from Jamaica, he didn't realize that the beautiful sun he loved so much was harming his skin, due to lack of skin knowledge and sun damage. Studies have shown that people of color have the lowest survival rate for melanoma of any racial group, which is why we need more professionals of color practicing aesthetics, which is key to getting the education to black community.

What is hyperpigmentation and why is it so common in darker skin? Hyperpigmentation is the excess production of melanin and becomes more noticeable with exposure to the sun. It is common in darker skin, I believe, because people of color have been given misinformation about the sun, melanin, and black skin. Studies have shown in the past the black people were diagnosed sunscreen less than caucasians and other lighter skin toned races and it is no secret that in the past we have not received the best medical care compared to others and dermatology and aesthetics were no different. Myths such as "Black don't crack." and "Black people don't need sunscreen." will unfortunately be the rise of more cases of skin cancers, if this is not handle as a medical aesthetic concern and be treated accordingly.

What can we do as professionals to change the narrative of these skin myths? All professionals of all races and ethnicities have a duty to stay well informed and educated on all skin and should be doing more to change the narrative of skin myths of any race, especially when the end result could be cancer. As professionals, our clientele should be inclusive and diverse so that we are gaining an extensive knowledge of skin conditions and disorders of all skin.

Studying and using DMK International products in my practice has helped me gain so much more knowledge in melanin production and alteration. It is important for me to spread this knowledge as it is impacting my very own race and color the most in the areas of lack of knowledge and misinformation.
Sonita Michelle, LE is a sesoned License Aesthetician, Xtreme Lashes Certified Advanced Lash Stylist, and DMK Fundamental Skin Revision Therapist based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She is the owner and Lead Aesthetician at Melanin Med Spa and Beauty Bar, formerly Sonita Michelle Esthetics. She is the founder of Skin Techs Cosmetics LLC, a clinical-based skincare line launched in 2019 and inspired by her clients of all races and ethnicities. She specializes in advanced ethnic skincare, premium brow services, semi-permanent cosmetics and lash extensions and skincare education in the community.