Aesthetic Clinic

Roberta Moradfar, an experienced practitioner of advanced aesthetics, provides the details. A Guide to Proper Sun Protection for People with Black Skin

Over a decade's worth of experience in the field of cosmetic medicine is held by Roberta Moradfar, owner of Effacé Aesthetics in Los Angeles, which is the only medical spa in the city that is run by a person of African descent. Moradfar is an advanced aesthetics practitioner to the stars. Moradfar practices a unique skill in plastic surgery nursing under the banner of Effacé Aesthetics, where she also sells skin care products that encourage hydration, even skin tones, fade bruises, brighten skin colour, and do a great deal more besides.

Moradfar's expertise rests in the enhancement of facial features and the delivery of natural results with the use of botox and fillers; nevertheless, her experience has given her the opportunity to gain a more in-depth understanding of how to care for skin, particularly Black skin. Angela Rye, Tameka Foster, Sir John, Serayah, and a great many other famous people are among the clientele she has worked with in the past.

Moradfar has not only earned the trust of celebrities and her clientele, but she is also among the best in her area, and she places a priority on catering to the requirements of black skin. Moradfar reached out to ESSENCE to dispel any residual myths and to elaborate on the dos and don'ts of sun care for black skin. This comes at a time when the myth that black people do not need to apply sunscreen is becoming less prevalent.

ESSENCE:

What is the most common misunderstanding about protecting melanated skin from the sun?

Moradfar, it's a common misunderstanding that those with darker complexion don't need to use sun protection. People who have a higher melanin content have the misconception that they do not need to use sunscreen if they do not get sunburned easily or if they tan easily when they are exposed to the sun. Even while those with darker skin have a lower risk of developing skin cancer and melanomas, the problem is that these diseases are more likely to go misdiagnosed until it is too late for treatment to be effective. When a person with darker skin is finally diagnosed with skin cancer, their chances of survival are much lower than those of a white person.

Do you have any idea how this tale was started?

It is difficult to pinpoint the origin of this fallacy, however, it is possible that the expression "Black don't crack" played a significant role in the development of the idea that people with darker skin do not require the same level of care as people with other types of skin. There's also the fact that darker skin appears to be less susceptible to ageing effects like wrinkles and sun damage. I also firmly believe that one of the contributing factors could be the fact that the vast majority of people of colour have traditionally been excluded from research studies and clinical trials, particularly in the field of dermatology. When it comes to those with a darker complexion, there are a lot of things that can be stated about the lack of education and information. When it comes to the treatment of patients who have darker skin, unfortunately, many programs that teach estheticians fail to offer their students a complete education and training on the subject. Dealing with "different" skin types or "ethnic skin" should need more than just one chapter, as this issue has been neglected for far too long.

What are some warning indicators that the skin has been damaged and that one should look out for?

Any changes to pre-existing moles as well as new moles or a patch of skin growth should be carefully observed and evaluated by a dermatologist with periodic skin checks. Particular attention should be paid to the palms and soles of the feet, as these areas are more likely to be affected by skin cancer. It was well known that Bob Marley suffered from skin cancer on his big toe. Check under and around your nails, especially the ones on your fingers and toes, for any black lines. Another issue that requires attention is a wound that either does not heal at all or heals for a while but then reappears.

When treating hyperpigmentation and melasma, how should one go about selecting the appropriate sun care products?

Chemical sunscreen is typically not recommended in favour of a mineral or physical broad-spectrum SPF that contains zinc oxide. This is due to the increased likelihood of skin irritation and inflammation while using a chemical-based SPF.

What about skin that is prone to acne?

A mineral-based sunscreen that does not clog pores and does not contain any oil. Acne can be worse by-products that are chemical-based.

Do you have any further suggestions for choosing sun care products?

When pregnant, it is recommended to use sunscreen that has a broad spectrum of mineral and physical protection. Additionally, protect your lips by applying a lip balm that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.

Is there a particular component that has to be prioritised?

Zinc oxide is the component of a mineral or physical sunscreen that possesses the optimal balance of safety and efficacy.

What are some of your go-to items for sun protection?

I consider EltaMD to be the premier brand of sun protection factors (SPFs), and I adore the fact that they offer a variety of sunscreens that may be customised to meet the specific requirements of your skin.

Is there anything else that can be said regarding protecting Black skin from sun damage?

Please consult your dermatologist for complete body inspections and look for an aesthetician who is both licensed and experienced to take care of your skin on a year-round basis, providing you with medical-grade skin care treatments and products. Exfoliating the outermost layer of dead skin using a treatment like microdermabrasion or a chemical peel can help to exfoliate the skin, which may help to lower the chance of dangerous skin cells proliferating and accumulating over time.

Visiting a top clinic that specialises in aesthetics is a smart way to get started on a skincare journey.

At Dr Ayad Aesthetics Clinic in Bicester, we believe that everyone deserves to look and feel their best. That's why our team of experts offer a range of treatments and services to help you achieve the perfect complexion, from laser hair removal to acne treatment. We also offer a range of medical-grade skin care products to help you maintain your results long after your initial visit. Contact us today to book a consultation and find out how we can help you achieve the beautiful, healthy skin you deserve!