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

Joyce Connor

Joyce Connor has been working in beauty and makeup for over 25 years. She was living in New York when she started out, and would visit every single makeup counter to try out different looks, and to learn about the products. Now UK based and bringing her passion to help other women look and feel great.

The post Expert advice on choosing makeup and skin care – Part I, African-Caribbean skin appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Is it time to ditch the razors? If you’re battling to find a solution for hair removal that won’t cause any irritation to your sensitive or mature skin, there are a few options available to you that might work.

What exactly do we mean by sensitive?

Sensitive skin is about more than just redness or skin conditions like rosacea or eczema; in fact, skin sensitivity comes in many different forms. It might be that you suffer from dehydrated skin, dry skin patches, or reactions to treatments or products.

And as we age, we can often find skin sensitivity flares up again. Below are some common identifying signs you can use to determine the skin type you’re dealing with:

Sensitive and oily skin

• Greasy
• Enlarged or clogged pores
• Rough texture
• Acne or pimples

Sensitive and dry skin

• Redness
• Rashes
• Inflammation
• Flaking

If you’re finding that your skin has changed, and shaving is giving you more trouble than it’s worth, it might be time to start thinking of new ways to go smooth.

Read more: Makeup masterclass for mature skin from Naomi Campbell

Three hair removal solutions for sensitive skin

If you’ve noticed your skin presents some of the above signs, it’s important to take precautions when deciding which hair removal solution to use. The following hair removal solutions are generally considered safe for sensitive or mature skin. Albeit with the correct application methods, and before- and after-care.

• Waxing

Since waxing sensitive skin can result in redness and even skin lifting, it’s important to first prepare your skin before getting your wax strips and spatulas out. Even if you’re getting waxed by a professional, it’s essential to do some preparation before your appointment like gently exfoliating the area once a week, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and taking an anti-inflammatory an hour before your service.

• Sugaring

Compared to waxing, sugaring is largely considered a much gentler experience – great if you have particularly sensitive skin. This is because the paste used in sugaring doesn’t stick to your skin and instead attaches to the hair. As a result, the amount of irritation in the area is significantly reduced.

• Laser hair removal

Laser hair removal has also been designed with sensitive skin in mind. While it takes between two to three weeks for the hair to grow back after waxing – and just one or two days after shaving! – laser hair removal is a much more permanent solution; the lessened frequency of this hair removal means a decreased risk of redness or scabbing. However, due to its permanency, it’s best to do some research before you go through with any treatment.

It can be difficult finding a hair removal solution that doesn’t irritate sensitive skin. However, waxing, sugaring and laser hair removal are largely considered the safest options if you do suffer from increased skin sensitivity. Just remember to take extra precautions and immediately stop treatment if you notice any bad side effects.

Bunty Whitstable

The post Hair removal for sensitive or mature skin. Time to ditch the razor? appeared first on Silver Magazine.