We are used to choosing our skincare products according to our skin type. Whether it is dry, oily, over a certain age or mixed, there is always the right product for us. But what about skin tone? Should different skin tones be treated in specific ways?
The truth is that skin is skin regardless of its color. So basic care should be equal to everyone. And what better way to treat our skin – our largest body organ – than with natural gemstones like the ones in Kristals products. However, special considerations must be made when dealing with skins of color. We met four wonderful women who shared their skincare tips with us.
“If you have a darker skin of color you do not have to worry about sun damage is a myth“
Susan is an African-American mother of three sons and an art historian. Her first steps in skincare begun later than she would have wanted. “I grew up believing that because of my skin color, I was in a way protected against sun damage. So during many years, I avoided using SPF products. After my first son was born, I noticed some dark spots in my face. So for the first time in my life – I was 32 by then – I went to see a dermatologist. Even though those dark spots were related to pregnancy hormones, she warned me against sun damage being harmful to all skin types and colors. So I technically had 32 years of accumulated sun exposure that will eventually be expressed in the future! Now there isn’t a day when I leave home without wearing a cream with SPF 30 or higher because although I am less prone to sunburn, I am not immune to skin cancer – and nobody is.”
Vitamin C for dark spots
Dermatologist Jenny Kim, MD from UCLA, states in her report published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology that Vitamin C, as well as other vitamins, have proven to be very effective for treating sun-damaged skin. Vitamin C can also inhibit melanin production so this can help correct uneven skin tones.
For tackling dark spots, young actress Mel recommends products with vitamin C. She comes from a mixed-race family, so her complexion is slightly lighter but very prone to develop hyperpigmentation. “I am totally in love with all Kristals Amber products. They have concentrated vitamin C that lightens, brightens and evens out my skin tone. They are also very easy to apply, and the results are amazing! Now I can go to any casting without feeling self conscious about how will my skin looks on camera. I feel healthier and more confident.”
Not the best scarring outlook
“Dealing with bad scarring wasn’t easy for me during my teenage years”, says Ashley, a wife, and chef. “Later I found out that keloid scarring is very frequently seen in skins of color. If I had known this back then, I would have treated acne in a very different way. Hyperpigmentation and dark spots around the scars didn’t make me the most popular girl in high school. After a lot of treatments, I could manage to get rid of most of the scars. But I still have some marks from those days. The best advice I can give to anyone with acne – regardless of his or her skin tone – is to treat it with the adequate products and by all means, do not pick at your pimples! Recently, I have incorporated Rock Crystal Instant Skin Polisher to my beauty routine. It’s an exfoliating product that I use once a week to remove dead skin cells. It leaves my skin extremely smooth and even-toned. A few months ago I went to my annual high school reunion and everyone was shocked at how well my skin looks. It may sound vain, but I was really glad to finally be noticed for something positive about my aesthetics.”
A tendency for oily skin
“Women of color tend to have oily skin”, shares Amanda, our new Brazilian model friend. “But this doesn’t mean that we can neglect hydration. As with any oily skin, choosing the right product is key. Instead of using a creamy formula, I go for serums and gels. My secret to great complexion is the Amethyst Set by Kristals. The Oxygen Instant Energizing Reviving Treatment leaves my skin fresh, purified, revitalized, and very well hydrated. Before a photo shoot, I always reach out for this treatment because I know that well hydrated skin can easily put up with long hours of makeup and hard lights.”
Skincare and gems
Amber can purify homes and attract good luck. It is not actually a gemstone, but a vegetable resin formed over thousands of years. Amber balances emotions, pushing fear away and dissolving negative energy. It helps develop patience and wisdom. Used in skincare, amber helps skin regain its youthful glow while evening the skin tone.
Rock crystal is considered to be one of the top healing stones. It is known for amplifying any energy or intent it receives, broadcasting that energy outward.
Amethyst is believed to be a protective gem from toxins. It provides oxygen to the skin and reduces oil. It is also known as a “soul stone” for its role in soothing emotions. Amethyst improves intuition and offers strong healing and cleansing powers. It helps the mind become more focused, enhancing memory and improving motivation.
About Kristals. For thousands of years, gemstones have been used for health and beauty around the world. Classical texts as well as astrological studies refer to the healing properties of gemstones and the positive influence of gems on the mind and body. Kristals takes this wisdom to a new level, bringing you concentrations of precious and semiprecious gemstones and metals known to create protective fields around the body and blending them with powerful botanicals, naturally effective herbal essences and oils, and the best scientific breakthroughs in skincare for every skin type.
