Specialist makeup artist Joyce Connor reveals how skin types mature differently, and shares her expert guidance when it comes to choosing the right products.

For this three-part feature, Joyce will be looking at three different skin types. In this first part we explore makeup and skin care for African-Caribbean skin. Parts II and III explore white and Asian skin respectively.

Everyone’s skin is different

Years ago, most makeup found on beauty counters was aimed at people with white skin. Now we’re finally starting to see decent makeup ranges for all skin tones, it’s time to look at maturing skin with a more specialist approach. 

…it’s time to look at maturing skin with a more specialist approach.

When it comes to both makeup and skincare, what worked for you at 25 doesn’t always work so well at 55. And Caucasian skin at 55 is very different from African-Caribbean or Asian. 

In this first part of three on how to choose makeup not only for your skin colour, but also as you age, Joyce Connor takes us through what makes African-Caribbean skin unique. She also gives her recommendations on a skincare routine, and the best products for maturing African-Caribbean skin.

Check out Silver’s very own Pro-Ageing Stem Cell Regenerator Serum

Firstly, at what age does African-Caribbean skin start to change and show signs of age?

All skins are different. African and Caribbean skin will start showing signs of age at around 55 years of age. Obviously this is a generalisation, but it’s a reasonable rule of thumb.

Heading into our fifties and beyond, what is the best skin care routine? 

As our skin ages we need to use different skincare routines to those we had when we were younger. 

African-Caribbean skins tend to be oiler because of the higher melanin levels, but this reduces with age. Using a nightly facial oil containing vitamin C will brighten skin in winter. 

A weekly refining mask for those with slightly oiler skins is advised. Exfoliation is important for all skin types to increase the penetration of oils and serums.

What type of makeup should those with African-Caribbean skin avoid?

As our skin ages we need to be aware of the makeup choices. African-Caribbean skins need to step back from caked-on foundation, and a wash of base colour looks more natural. 

Avoid using black pencils on eyebrows and opt for a dark brown powder instead.

With all skin tones, the clue is in softening the approach. Steer away from black, and avoid heavy foundations etc. Let the more natural, beautiful you shine through!

Joyce’s recommendations for African-Caribbean skin

Skincare and beauty routine

1. Nightly facial oil 

2. A weekly refining mask

3. Exfoliation for greater skin penetration

4. A wash of base colour rather than heavy foundation

5. Brown for eyebrows

A few suggestions for your skin

Elizabeth Arden Vitamin C Ceramide Capsules Radiance Renewal Serum £77

Vitage Renewal Antioxidant Treatment Mask £24

 

Goldfaden MD Doctor’s Scrub £120

EX1 Cosmetics Invisiwear Liquid Foundation 14.0, £12.50

Armani Eye & Brow Maestro £32

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Oil, £67