SKIN CARE
for African-Americans By: Marie Winchester
• 13
I n this obsessed-with-looks society, there is an incredi
ble premium placed on appearance. Embodying that
premium is the quality and texture of one’s skin. More
than any other quality, skin tone represents a defining
dynamic for African-American women. Its
quality speaks volumes: Complexion can
radiate vitality or betray age. it is a truth
serum regarding a frame of mind or a qual
ity of the diet.
Esthetician Irma Denson, president and
founder of Irma Denson Skin Care Center
and Day Spa in New York City, is an expert
on African-American skin and its nuances
and dynamics. This Paris. France-educated
specialist has analyzed and prescribed solu
tions for various types of skins and skin con-
ditions for 17 years.
According to Ms. Denson, most African-Americans’ skin
suffer from deep dehydration: The skin tends to be oily on
the outside, but dry on the inside. In this condition, the
natural moisture is trapped inside because of a lack of
water and the use of too many oily products. At times the
skin feels sensitive, has flaky patches, itching and the -
complexion is ashy.
Another skin care choice revolves around the new tech
nology of Alpha Hydroxy Acid products. The skin care
industry has witnessed a quantum leap due to the discov
ery of the Alpha Hydroxy Acid family of products. This
has opened up a whole new and dramatic world of skin
care improvement options.
Of this family of Alpha Hydroxy Acids. Ms. Denson rec
ommends that African-Americans select products contain
ing (AHA) glycolic acid, a non-toxic natural substance
that is derived from sugar cane and fruit acids.
“Products that contain glycolic acid are very good for dry
and oily skin. Glycolic acid sloughs off the dead surface
skin cells that impede moisturization and clogged pores,
which is the major cause of break outs.” Ms. Denson
explains. She adds that glycolic acid is also very effective
in treating different grades of acne and it helps smooth out
the fine lines, giving the face a younger, fresher look.
Crucial to the improvement of skin is cleansing.
“Cleansing is one of the most vital elements of total skin
care.” stresses Ms. Denson. “When meticulously and
constantly performed, you get very good results. A deep
cleansing assures the removal of impurities, any residue
of make-up can rid the skin of excess oiliness. Most
important, proper cleansing, which should be done twice
daily, enhances the skin's ability to breathe.”
For overall skin maintenance, she recommends that
African-Americans use products made from vegetable and
botanical extracts such as chamomile and sage, almond,
aloe, azulene. These products are gentle, anti-inflamma
tory and have a soothing effect on the skin.
Ms. Denson has treated a variety of skin problems
and offers a program on how to treat each condi
tion:
PROBLEM - Hyperpigmentation - caused by
squeezing blemishes which results in dark spots,
this condition is unique to Black skin. Other caus
es include sun damage, birth control pills, preg
nancy and drugs.
SOLUTION - Consult a dermatologist for a pre-
scription or consult an esthetician. Ms. Denson rec
ommends for her clients an array of products with glycol
ic acid, hydroquionone or kojic acid. These product com
bos are very effective in lightening hyperpigmentation
(discoloration). Repeated use will minimize skin discol
oration and age spots and the overall appearance. With
continued use. the skin will be softer, smoother and more
uniform in color than ever before.
PROBLEM - Facial Hairs - Caused by shaving and pluck
ing which results in ingrown hairs, razor bumps and dark
spots.
SOLUTION - Ms. Denson advises those I
with this condition to have the hair waxed
by an esthetician since this procedure tends
to lift the hair from the follicles of the
pores. She advises using a highly effective
product by the name of Tend Skin, which I
was developed by Dr. Steven Rosen and is I
available for purchase from her center. [
This p. duct should be used twice daily for |
several days, on legs, bikini lines, under- Merri Det
arms and in other areas that are prone to
hair grow'th and razor bumps. It is a product that both men
and women can use.
PROBLEM - Acne
SOLUTION - Use products that contain benzoyl perox
ide. a water-based formula. They help to reduce irritation
and excessive dryness while penetrating the pores and
releasing oxygen. Application of these products also
attack the bacteria, which produces acne. Those allergic
to benzoyl peroxide can substitute sulphur, which also has
a very therapeutic effect on the skin. To address this con
dition. she suggests deep cleaning and exfoliation
(removal of dead skin cells) depending upon the skin type.
Merri Dee, a Chicago-based television personality whose
ability to survive in this appearance-driven business.
evolved into a beauty consul
tant. by demand. Ms. Dee
says her guests have sought
her advice on how to keep
their skin looking young and
vibrant. To accommodate the
hordes of requests, she has
refined a skin care routine for
Black women: 1) Clean the
skin with a lubricating lotion
to remove make-up 2)
Cleanse face twice daily with
a face sponge, this mini-cleansing/facial can rid the skin
of deeply embedded oils and make-up 3) Follow with a
light, non-alcoholic, non fragrant astringent. Those on a
budget can use Witch Hazel, which contains non-irritating
alcohol.
Nubia Skin Care Inc. is touted as “The Ultimate Black
Skin Care Experience!” is All That Miracle Revitalizing
formula from Nubia - this product contains the important
glycolic acid that esthetician Irma Denson recommends.
All That Miracle Revitalizing formula from Nubia Skin
Care Inc. has been shown to produce excellent results on
skin with fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, discolorations,
and dry, flaky conditions by accelerating the skin’s natur
al ability to renew itself. It contains herbal extracts
and humectants that “leave your skin feeling as soft
and supple as skin that’s years younger.”
One of Nubia's newest skin care product offerings
is the All That Oatmeal Buffing Creme, which
promi.ses to fluff away dead cells and keep the skin
clean and fresh. A thoroughly natural modern ver
sion of the age-old facial mask. All That Oatmeal
Buffing Creme helps draw out impurities while it
soothes the skin. Mildly abrasive almonds purify
the texture, and Allantion helps heal the skin.
While there are a wide array of skin care products avail
able. Ms. Dee says that the ultimate key to beauty
revolves around a woman's self-perception. And. she
says, women should not view aging as a sentence, but
rather as a source of pride.“Wrinkles are a badge of
honor.” she declares. “Once a woman takes care of her
skin and the skin wrinkles, as it will in time, she should
focus inwardly feeling good about herself, still caring for
herself, her skin and her looks.”
Irma Denson can he reached ai Inna Denson Skin Care
Center and Day Spa 155 E. 55th Street. Suite 4D, New
York. NY 10022. 212-371-3413: For Nubia Skin Care
products call 800-77-NUBIA. ■