Not all products are created equal! So, when you're looking for skin care products for your beautiful Black Skin, look for ingredients that are natural and for ingredients that won't strip your skin of it's natural moisture and radiance.

This article list a few of the ingredients that are often used in skin care products and the natural alternatives that provide a much better outcome when caring for African American Skin.

Do you know what to look for and what to avoid when purchasing your skin care products. Black skin is envied by many, because of its exquisite beauty and even it’s longevity. Yes, people with black skin tend to look younger than those of the same age with fairer complexions. However, it is not damage-proof especially to substances that are found in many products on the beauty shelves today.

Taking care of your beautiful black skin is not only achieved by eating right and exercising, it also means taking the initiative to check the ingredients that are listed on the packaging of products in order to determine whether or not they are good for African American skin. If you’ve done your homework you will know what works and avoid those products that don’t.

Here is a short list of ingredients that you can check for whenever you purchase your skin care products.

SLS/ALS – Sodium lauryl sulphate and ammonium lauryl sulphate, as well as sodium laureth sulphate and ammonium laureth sulphate are commonly found in skin care and hair care products because of their ability to bring out the dirt from your skin. However, these ingredients can irritate your skin and cause inflammation. It is now considered a toxic ingredient. Instead of SLS and ALS, many concerned manufacturers use a natural alternative like coconut cleanser or Cocoamidopropyl betaine.

DEA (Diethanolamine) – DEA is another beauty product ingredient used because of its emulsifying properties. It is said to have negative impact on your hormones. Look for vegetable glycerine instead to determine whether or not your skin care product has a good emulsifier.

Parabens – Premature aging and cancer is associated with the use of parabens, a common preservative for cosmetics. Other harmful preservatives are Phenoxyethanol, BHA and triethanolamine. Go for natural preservatives like Potassium sorbate and Rosemary oil.

Propylene glycol – This could harm your kidneys and liver. For some, the debate continues. In 1992, the FDA banned it's use in house killing products because it has not been shown to be safe but it's still allowed as a cosmetic ingredient in concentrations up to 50 percent.

Petrolatum / paraffin – Petroleum products, while they soften your skin and trap in the moisture, they can also lead to clogged pores, resulting in acne and other blemishes for some African Americans. It is also linked to cancer and infertility. Instead of using these ingredients, switch to products with natural softeners like virgin coconut oil and cocoa butter.

Triclosan – is an antibacterial agent mostly found in sanitizers, bath gels and soaps. It is associated with problems in the endocrine and reproductive systems though.

Phthalates – This substance takes its toll on the liver. It's used as an ingredient to improve the scent of a product. Natural essential and fragrance oils are better options for sweet smelling skin care products.

Most of the illnesses brought on by these ingredients are not simple at all. Therefore, it is a great responsibility on your part to carefully select products with ingredients that are good for African American skin.

After all, isn't your skin worth it!


Dedicated To Your Beauty!


Juliette Samuel,
Esthetician/Publisher
NYRAJU Skin Care -Providers of Natural Skin & Hair Care Products for People of Color