
Can you treat all skin colors the same way? After all, skin is skin. It tans, burns, breaks out, dries out, gets oily and last but not least, it wrinkles. True enough on all counts, but in recent research and through years of experience at my medical practice, there are important distinctions between darker (such as: African American, Asian, Hispanic, or Native American) and lighter skin. These are factors that you should be aware of when deciding on a skincare regimen.
The Advantages of Dark Skin
Dark skin, particularly that of African-Americans, produces more melanin than light skin. The melanocytes (or pigment cells) seem to have superior protective capabilities against the sun, resulting in fewer cases of skin cancer for the dark-complexioned population. On the cosmetic side, recent research indicates that dark skin has more supportive collagen in the upper-most layer of the skin, which may mean less wrinkling.
The flip side is that dark skin is prone to a variety of problems that the fair complexions are spared. Pigment problems, dry skin, excessive scar tissue and ingrown hairs are more common.
Fortunately, we have new methods and products that can soften the effect of these conditions and leave dark skin looking and feeling better than ever.
The Polka-Dot Syndrome
Due to the amount of pigment in dark skin, discoloration problems are very common and their visual effects can be similar to a polka-dot pattern. Hyperpigmentation (excess pigment) can develop at the site of an injury or after a blemish has healed. Also, larger patches of dark skin can result from too much sun exposure.
Dermatologists have always been challenged with the difficulty of treating hyperpigmentation, but new developments in skincare have provided products that offer tremendous improvements in creating an even skin tone. Daily exfoliation is the key using a combination of ingredients such as AHA’s and BHA’s to reduce excess skin cell build-up. Vitamin C application is also extremely beneficial for brightening the complexion. And daily sunscreen use is a must, for every skin color!
Try AHA/BHA Exfoliating Skin Cleanser, Combination Skin Formula, Age Spot & Pigment Lightening Gel, Daily Renewal Complex, Vitamin C Home Infusion Facial Treatment and Age-Proof Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 15.

Dr. Howard Murad, board-certified dermatologist, pharmacist, and Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine (Dermatology) at UCLA, is the founder of Murad, an award-winning skincare products company. Dr. Murad is widely acknowledged as one of the world's foremost authorities on skin health.
Dr. Murad defines vision and direction for Murad. Dr. Murad provides direct oversight to the Murad Inclusive Health Center® and Spa, Murad Medical Group and Murad Research Laboratories and travels the world speaking both as a brand ambassador and skin-health educator.