\n\nAFRO CENTRIC SKIN CARE PROBLEMS & SOLUTIONS\n\nDARK SKIN: NOT AS STRONG AS IT LOOKS \n\nDark skin was once thought to be stronger than other skin types as well as sun-proof. But new studies show that under stress from cosmetics and chemicals Black skin can react as strongly or more strongly than other skin types. Melanoma (Skin Cancer) is harder to recognize because darker pigmentation hides redness, sovaldi sale sovaldi the typical signpost of sensitivity. Skin cancer is rare but more deadly for people of color due to the fact that it is usually detected much later. The reason skin cancer is rare in people of color is because the dark pigmentation blocks most of the ultraviolet rays of the sun that are responsible for most forms of skin cancer. African-American skin produces more natural skin oils (sebum) than other cultures. This is inherent from the African heritage where the climate is extremely hot and humid. In these conditions, oily skin aids in keeping the skin cool and the dark pigmentation prevents skin diseases from ultraviolet sunrays. The problem associated with dark oily skin in some people is a condition called Keloids. Keloids are formed after a cut or any puncture of the skin that causes bleeding. With keloids, when the skin heals, an erosion of the skin forms resembling a hardened lump the same diameter of the cut. People with this condition should not get any service that involves skin piercing. A keloid can also form after a burn. Black skin isn’t completely sun-proof either. While extra melanin (color) protects it from UV (ultraviolet rays), it is still vulnerable to damage form UV Rays. Best bet for Dark skin: Use appropriate sun protection and stick to a gentle care regimen. A skin care program for oily skin may be too harsh and cause problems, not prevent them. Since breakouts can lead to scarring and pigmentation abnormalities “*Keloids” use products that are hypo allergenic.\n\nAfro centric skin is usually oilier than that of other cultures allowing it to appear more youthful with age by holding the salt in perspiration off the skin. One of the main distinctions of cosmetics for Afro Centric skin other than shades of color; it’s that they contain less oil than cosmetics for the general market for the reasons explained above.\n\n \n\nQUESTIONS AND ANSWERS\n\nQ I’ve noticed that my complexion’s become blotchy lately, with some patches of skin turning visibly dark. What could be causing this? \n\nA It sounds like you’re suffering from melasma, a fairly common form of hyper pigmentation that occurs when a woman’s body overproduces melanin (color). Scientists aren’t sure exactly why some women get melasma and others don’t, but the condition has been linked to estrogen, the female sex hormone. The two most common causes of melasma are birth-control pills and pregnancy both of which boosts a woman’s estrogen level. Other less likely causes of hyper pigmentation, include sensitivity to sunlight (which can be triggered by certain drugs) an allergic reaction to some perfume oils, or a skin injury from a cut, burn or case of acne.\n\nQ How do I overcome this condition\n\nA If you take the Pill, you may want to consult your doctor about switching birth control methods. Or treat the melasma with a prescription bleaching cream containing hydroquinone. Beware, though: Don’t use a hydroquinone ointment on skin that’s being treated for acne with benzyl peroxide-if combined, these substances can worsen melasma. Also, be sure to wear a sunscreen when outdoors, since exposure to solar rays darkens blotches. Most people of color mistakenly think that sunscreens are not necessary due to darker skin filtering out most of the UV rays. You can even out your complexion with a foundation that offers coverage and protection.\n\nA dermatologist has several options for evening the skin tone, the most common of which is the use of chemical bleaching creams. Bleaching creams work by blocking the formation of new pigment. All the agents used contain one basic ingredient: Hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is the same chemical found in over the counter products such as Ambi or Porcelana and other skin toning products. The difference is in the concentration levels. Over the counter products have about two percent hydroquinone, whereas the prescription medications used have concentrations ranging from four percent to ten percent, depending on the type and purpose of treatment. In conjunction with the prescription bleaching cream, a dermatologist will probably recommend a sunscreen to apply to the affected areas, since further sun exposure will make the dark spots darker.\n\nQ Lately my eyelashes have been falling out more than usual. Why? What can I do?\n\nA Due to the fact that hair and skin are so closely related, this question is valid to this subject matter. Some lash loss is inevitable. (See next paragraph) To keep lashes healthy, just treat them with care. Apply and remove mascara gently, or use a makeup removal lotion specially designed to condition lashes. If you curl your lashes do it before applying mascara to minimize lash damage. Be sure to keep moisturizers and sunscreens away from your eyes, since rubbing irritated eyes will pull out lashes as well.\n\nIf your lashes fall out in patches or begin to itch, or if you lose hair from other parts of your body as well consult a doctor or dermatologist. Hair on the head has a life span of 5-7 years. Hair on other parts of the face & body has a life span of only a few months.\n\nIn conclusion:\n\nSun protection is vital for all skin types as a preventative measure against damaging ultraviolet rays that aggravate skin discoloration. If used on a daily basis, a sunscreen can help eliminate irregular pigmentation. A dermatologist can help determine what protection level is best for your skin tone. An added plus: many of the moisturizers and foundations on the market today have sunscreen built in. Major advances are constantly being made in the area of skin care, so if a customer’s skin tone is less than perfect, they should seek professional treatment and celebrate their skin’s special tone.\n\nFor more information on this and related matters visit Liquidgoldbonding.com, go to media and click on blog.\n\nDr. Lloneau will be conducting a free class at the PROUD LADY BEAUTY SHOW on May 5^th, 2012 at the Tinley Park Convention Center (Just south of Chicago). For more information call (708) 633-6328\n\nDr. Edward Tony Lloneau\n\nliquidgoldbondng@aol.com\n\n(310) 283-7118