Source: Courtesy of Samjah Iman
“Girl, I have been getting hyaluronic acid face injections annually, and I love them,” my friend revealed during an intense conversation about melanin skincare. I was lost. I was 42 years old and considered myself informed about skincare wellness. However, I had yet to learn what hyaluronic acid was. Until our conversation, my skincare routine consisted of various products that were somewhat effective (except for some dryness and occasional acne). Still, I never thought to alter my regimen. But after that conversation and realizing my skin was now considered “mature,” I felt the need to switch up some things to improve and preserve my melanin.
Curious about hyaluronic acid (a natural substance located in your joints that lubricates the skin, according to WebMD), I began researching it and even asked a few of my 40-something-year-old friends if they knew about it and what their skincare routine consisted of. I learned that we lose hyaluronic acid as we age, and moisturizing is one of the keys to maintaining healthy skin. I tried some of my friend’s skincare suggestions, but my skin didn’t agree with the products. They were either too drying or harsh for my sensitive skin, leaving it looking overworked and dull.
Source: Courtesy of Samjah Iman
10 Skincare Products that Work Well for My Melanin Skin
I experienced some acne as a teen and during my 30s, but it eventually cleared up – thus allowing me to use simple drugstore products without any consequences. I’ve never been one to splurge on beauty products, but my new-found “I deserve it” mantra and “okay” maturing skin forced me to explore high-integrity products crafted with my skin type in mind. Plus, I’ve been ramping up my self-care practices lately, so upgrading my skincare routine was only right.
Source: Courtesy of Samjah Iman
After interviewing several skincare enthusiasts, googling skin care products for hours, and spending hundreds of dollars on trying different skincare brands, I finally figured out what my mature, acne-prone skin loves – products that are moisturizing and have simple, natural ingredients in them that don’t strip the skin.
In addition to getting a facial every other month, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and indulging in this nourishing hydrating mask that I am obsessed with, here are ten skincare products that have elevated my skin and given me the glow I deserve.
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Our editors have independently selected all products. Please note: we may receive an affiliate commission for products and services purchased through our website.
1. Botnia Daily Face Wash
Source:Samjah Iman
I have tried several face washes, most of which have left my skin dry. The Botnia daily face wash is a pH-balanced foam, ideal for my sensitive skin. It leaves my skin feeling clean and moisturized. I use it in the mornings and can’t wait to wake up and lather my face with this luxurious wash.
Shop Now2. Bamboo Towels
Source:Samjah Iman
Before my glow-up, I would use a bathroom towel to dry my face, not considering the bacteria it can carry. I saw a young lady at an event using this towel on her flawless face to combat her oil, and I asked her what it was. I haven’t used a bathroom towel on my face since. These bamboo towels leave my skin feeling soft and supple.
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3. Apoterra Neroli Clarifying Complexion Mist
Source:Samjah Iman
This Apoterra Clarifying Mist refreshes my face in the morning. It’s packed with nutrients like green tea extract and vitamin C, which hydrate and brighten the skin.
Shop Now4. Ere Perez Quandong Green Booster Serum
Source:Samjah Iman
This serum is literally a smoothie for your skin. It contains vital skincare ingredients like chlorophyll, spinach leaf, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid, which boosts and nourishes the skin. I’m addicted to this serum and use it during my morning skin routine.
Shop Now5. Apoterra Vitamin C Regenerative Balm
Source:Samjah Iman
This balm gives me that glow that I can’t get enough of. This magic potion can be used as a moisturizing cream, a hydrating mask, an eye cream, or a facial cleanser. It repairs and strengthens the skin.
Shop Now6. Saint Jane Luxury Sun Ritual Pore Smoothing SPF 30 Sunscreen
Source:Samjah Iman
I’ve tried several sunscreens throughout my life, and none are as luxurious as this one. It has no white cast and minimizes the look of your pores—perfection.
Shop Now7. Clarity Face + Body Herbal Exfoliant
Source:Samjah Iman
After I use this exfoliant, my face feels like a baby’s bottom. It’s made of turmeric, calendula, neem, aloe, and other powerful natural ingredients that gently polish and cleanse the skin, leaving it smooth and radiant.
Shop Now8. Botnia Balancing Oil Cleanser
Source:Samjah Iman
At night, I like to dissolve the day’s impurities on my face with this fabulous oil cleanser. It gently cleanses and soothes my skin. I’m obsessed with this oil!
Shop Now9. Botnia Hydrating Serum
Source:Samjah Iman
After using my Botnia Balancing Oil at night, I follow it up with witch hazel for my toner and this hydrating serum, which includes rose geranium and hyaluronic acid. It moisturizes and protects my skin.
Shop Now10. Confidence in an Eye Cream Anti-Aging Peptide Eye Cream
Source:Samjah Iman
I’m not usually a fan of “anti-aging” products, but this eye cream does help lift the skin under the eyes for a brighter appearance.
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