15 Best Skin Care Products For Dark Skin (2024)
Enhance the beauty of your natural complexion with the right skincare essentials.
Cecilia is a licensed esthetician with over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry. She firmly believes that a holistic approach can truly transform the skin and focuses on nourishing the skin at a cellular level to make it healthy from the inside out.
Read full bio of Cecelia Wong
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
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As per the American Academy of Dermatology’s study, people with darker complexion are more prone to acne, eczema, and hyperpigmentation (1). Hence, we bring you the best skincare products for dark skin. It’s very important to start taking care of your skin from a young age. Dark skin needs extra care and love; that’s why one needs to pay extra attention.
Having said that, we’ve decided to curate some fantastic products that will work like magic on darker skin. From getting rid of uneven skin tone to bidding goodbye to acne to making skin glowing, these products will do it all. Cecelia Wong, a licensed esthetician, says, “These products are able to enhance the rich beauty of melanin-rich complexions. They embrace the unique qualities of dark skin and address its specific needs such as hyperpigmentation, hydration, and sun protection. With formulas that are deeply nourishing and designed to prevent ashy or dull appearances, they promote an even glowing complexion.” Keep scrolling, and you’ll thank us later!
In This Article
15 Best Skin Care Products For Dark Skin – Our Top Picks For 2024
1. Best Anti-Aging:Wonderfully NaturalAfrican Black Soap
The Wonderfully Natural African Black Soap is handcrafted with 100% organic ingredients from Africa. It is made with palm oil, palm kernel oil, coconut oil, unrefined shea butter, purified water, and cocoa pod ash. Organic shea butter revitalizes, softens, and smoothens the skin. It also has anti-aging properties that induce cell renewal and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Shea butter also contains vitamins A and E, which strengthen, restore, and repair damaged skin. These vitamins soothe sores, burns, scars, and treats acne, dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema.
The cocoa pod ash softens and firms the skin. Its antioxidant properties repair and renew damaged skin and combat free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the skin. The organic palm oil enriched with vitamin E and antioxidants help treat eczema and acne, soothes burns, and reduces cell damage. The organic kernel oil is high in lauric acid with antibacterial and antifungal properties. The organic coconut oil restores the skin’s lipid barrier and seals in moisture. It also repairs dry and dehydrated skin skin and minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. You can also check this video out to view the reviewer’s experience with the product.
Pros
- Anti-oxidant rich formula
- Soothes eczema and acne
- Handcrafted
- Minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Repairs damaged skin
- Soothes burns
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Might dry out the skin
- Might cause breakouts
2. Best Vegan:Acure Brightening Day Cream
The Acure’s Brightening Day Cream is formulated with plant extracts and antioxidants that improve skin quality, texture, and appearance. It minimizes uneven skin tones and brightens the skin. This day cream contains centellaasiatica and argan oil, which replenish and protect the skin.
Cica contains antioxidants that fight free radicals. Argan oil intensely moisturizes the skin. This cream eliminates dull skin and adds radiance. It is vegan, cruelty-free, and suitable for all skin types. The product does not contain parabens, petrolatum, sulfates, formaldehyde, paraffin, mineral oil, or animal testing.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Vegan
- Mineral oil-free
- Silicone-free
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Paraffin-free
- Petrolatum-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Contains alcohol
"Finalizing a day cream for oily skin is never too easy. But once I tried this one, I knew this was the one. It's good for sensitive skin. I like the fresh citrus smell. It's lightweight and also goes well as a base for my makeup."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 2,592 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
3. Best For Dark Spots:Ra Cosmetics African Shea Butter
The Ra Cosmetics African Shea Butter is extracted from the nut of the West African shea tree. It is enriched with fatty acids that rejuvenate and hydrate the skin. It also makes the skin healthy, smooth, and soft.
This unrefined shea butter with therapeutic properties protects the skin from the sun, cold, and wind. It speeds up the healing process of wounds, fights aging signs, and repairs rough and damaged skin. The product has also proven efficacy in treating dark spots, skin discoloration, stretch marks, and blemishes.
Pros
- 100% natural
- Repairs damaged skin
- Fights aging signs
- Suitable for dark spot correction
- Reduces stretch marks
- Hydrates the skin
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
"If your skin is as dry as mine, you don’t have to look any further. It is just what my skin needs. It’s a bit thick, but once it’s rubbed on the skin it melts and gives my skin the moisturization it needed. One trick that works for me is to rub it between the palms before putting it on my skin."
Quick Tip4. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:SheaMoisture African Black Soap Facial System Kit
The SheaMoisture African Black Soap Facial System Kit comes with a face and body bar, facial mask, facial wash and scrub, and moisturizer. All the products contain tamarind extract and tea tree oil that exfoliate the skin and soothe and mattify it, respectively. The face and body bar cleanses, hydrates, and calms the skin. It soothes irritated skin, clears blemishes, and evens out the skin tone. The facial mask purifies the skin and helps reduce acne.
The facial wash and scrub exfoliate the skin mildly. It absorbs excess oil, controls breakouts, reduces blemishes, and makes the skin look young and fresh. The moisturizer imparts a shine-free and natural glow to the skin. This kit is made with certified organic and natural ingredients that are suitable even for sensitive skin. It is cruelty-free and does not contain sulfates, phthalates, parabens, mineral oil, and propylene glycol.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Propylene glycol-free
- Phthalate-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Mineral oil-free
Cons
- Abrasive mud mask
"This soap is exactly what my skin needs. My blemishes have faded, and the dark circles also look better. I have oily skin, and this soap moisturizes without making the skin too oily. My pimples are less frequent now."
5. Best For Dry And Mature Skin:Shea Terra Namibian Marula Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Oil
The Shea Terra Namibian Marula Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Oil improves skin elasticity and restores moisture balance. It makes the skin soft, healthy, and young-looking. This oil is made with a high concentration of nutrients like essential fatty acids and antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental aggressors and toxins.
The oil repairs skin damage by photoaging, boosts cellular activity, and reduces collagen damage. It is cruelty-free and does not contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, alcohol, propylene glycol, mineral oil, petroleum, recycled water, and synthetic fragrance and dyes. It can also be used to condition dry hair and add shine.
Pros
- Suitable for dry and mature skin
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Propylene glycol-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Petroleum-free
- No synthetic fragrance
- Dye-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May cause allergic reactions
"The results speak for itself. In just a week, my skin feels so much better. There is no acne, no blemishes, and my skin is even toned. It's the product my skin always needed. I am so happy with my skin now."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 1,397 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
6. Best Hydrating:Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask
The Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask makes the skin young-looking instantly. It contains rich anti-aging ingredients like black rose, padinapavonica, and alkekengi calyx extracts. These active ingredients reduce signs of fatigue and revitalize and refresh the skin. This mask hydrates the skin instantly, making it smooth, soft, and plump. It improves skin texture, brightens the skin, and reduces signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. Apply it two or three times a week to achieve visible results in the form of healthier skin.
Pros
- Hydrates the skin
- Adds glow
- Reduces signs of aging
Cons
- Might cause redness
- Expensive
7. Best Anti-Inflammation:Om Botanical 100% Pure Botanical Shea Butter
The Om Botanical 100% Pure Botanical Shea Butter is enriched with vitamins A and E and fatty acids like oleic and stearic acids. The unrefined and raw shea butter is obtained by hand pressing shea nuts. It has a nutty aroma, and it intensely moisturizes and replenishes dry skin.
Shea butter contains cinnamic acid that protects the skin from UV rays. It also smoothens wrinkles and relaxes aching muscles. This butter minimizes scars, soothes burns and sores, treats dermatitis and dandruff, and reduces the appearance of stretch marks. It boosts cell renewal, improves blood circulation, minimizes eyebags, and repairs sun-damaged skin. It is a favorite product of many as it helps reduce inflammation and treat psoriasis and eczema. It can also be used as a makeup foundation to keep the makeup stay long.
Pros
- Hand-pressed
- Reduces inflammation, eczema, and psoriasis
- Can be used as a makeup foundation
- Moisturizes the skin
- Non-toxic
Cons
- Might be gritty
8. Best Mildly Scented:Dudu Osun Black Soap
Dudu Osun Black Soap is formulated to treat skin issues such as excessive oils, acne, and blemishes. The soap exfoliates dead skin layers, moisturizes dry skin, reduces irritation, and has anti-aging properties. This handmade soap is infused with ingredients like honey, shea butter, coconut oil which works effectively in reducing dark marks, blemishes, dark spots, and acne scars.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Easy-to-use
- Lathers well
- Mild scented
Cons
- May be itchy on sensitive skin
"This soap is what my skin needed. It doesn’t leave any residue while washing. My skin feels softer and looks even tone. My pimples have reduced after using this soap. It also has a refreshing scent that lingers all day."
9. Best Water-Resistant:Skinceuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense
The Skinceuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense with SPF 50 is a lightweight, universal tinted sunscreen that allows the skin to breathe. It is formulated with color-infused sunscreen technology that boosts skin radiance. The broad-spectrum, physical filters, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide provides photo protection. It also contains artemiasalina, a plankton extract, which enhances the power of the sunscreen. This sunscreen improves the skin’s immunity and resistance to UV rays and heat.
Pros
- SPF 50
- Paraben-free
- Chemical-free
- Water-resistant
- Can be used as a makeup foundation
- Non-drying
- Absorbed quickly
- Lightweight
- Tinted
Cons
- Not suitable for combination, oily, or acne-prone skin
- May cause breakouts
- Unpleasant smell
Pro Tip10. Best Non-Drying:Acne Killer Body Wash
The Acne Killer Body Wash contains horseradish, green tea, and African black soap, which unclog pores, moisturize and replenish the skin, and prevent breakouts. Green tea is rich in antioxidants that prevent signs of aging and damage caused by UV rays and stress. This body wash helps soothe rosacea-prone skin and is suitable for all skin types. This oil-free formula should be used twice a day for best results.
Pros
- 100% natural
- Non-comedogenic
- Oil-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- Non-drying
- Chemical-free
- Preservative-free
Cons
- May cause allergic reactions
"This body wash is what you need if acne has been your worst enemy recently. It soothes and cleanses your skin. I love the earthy smell. It is a bit drying, but if you have oily skin, it will work out fine. It is also good for those with sensitive skin."
11. Best For Pregnancy Marks:Specific Beauty Advanced Dark Spots Correcting Pads
The Specific Beauty Advanced Dark Spots Correcting Pads employ MelaTone therapy with potent scientific and natural ingredients that even tones and brightens the skin. They are formulated with rich botanical extracts like bearberry and licorice that make your skin radiant. The pads also contain kojic acid and vitamin C, which brighten the skin and reduce the signs of aging like age spots.
This blend of ingredients diminishes dark spots, pregnancy marks, discoloration, and hypo/hyperpigmentation. It also exfoliates the skin, reduces visible age damage, and boosts healthy cell turnover. These dermatologist-tested pads also contain green tea polyphenols that nourish the skin and aid in skin repair and Indian gooseberry that calms and soothes the skin. It is also not tested on animals.
Pros
- Exfoliating formula
- Hydroquinone-free
- Dermatologist-developed
- Suitable for dry and sensitive skin
- Evens the skin tone
- Fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- Soothes the skin
- Diminishes pregnancy marks
- Minimizes discoloration
- Exfoliates the skin
- Boosts cell turnover
Cons
- Expensive
12. Best Lightweight:Ren Clean Skincare Clearcalm
The Ren Clean Skincare Clearcal is a quick-acting, non-comedogenic cream that treats acne. It is formulated with 0.5% salicylic acid, which diminishes blemishes, blackheads, dark spots, and visible pores without drying the skin. This cream also contains glycerin that moisturizes the skin. It works with microbiomes to reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin drastically.
The salicylic acid is extracted from white willow bark. This cream also contains maritime pine and thyme complex that soothe the skin and prebiotic chlorella extract that upholds healthy skin microbiomes. This product is vegan, cruelty-free, eco-friendly, gluten-free, and suitable for normal, dry, combination, and oily skin types.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Adds a rejuvenating effect
- Non-drying
- Lightweight
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Might peel off under makeup
- Leaves an orange mark
"What I absolutely dig about this cream is, it's so lightweight! It sets in without leaving any white residue. There is no irritation, and it covers my blemishes perfectly. I am very happy I invested in it. This has now become my go-to cream."
13. Best Pore-Shrinking:Flurries African Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer With Avocado
The Flurries African Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer With Avocado tightens, clears, and lightens the skin. It minimizes the size of enlarged pores, lifts, brightens, and hydrates the skin. This moisturizer contains avocado with a high quantity of folic acid, which nourishes the skin deeply. It helps soothe allergies and dryness and heals damaged skin barriers.
The sterols and vitamin E in avocado boost collagen production, soothe the skin and prevent aging signs. Avocado is also rich in vitamin A and cinnamic acid, which repair wounds and protect the skin. This cream also contains unsaturated fatty acids and vitamins that replenish the skin with moisture and restore its suppleness. It is absorbed into the skin quickly and is non-greasy and lightweight. This cream does not clog pores or cause breakouts and is suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
- Deep cleansing formula
- Smoothens the skin
- Repairs damaged skin
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Non-comedogenic
- Suitable for all skin types
- Suitable for kids
- Minimizes enlarged pores
- Adds glow
Cons
- Might dry out the skin
- Expensive
14. Best Skin Toning:Donuyale Essentials Blemish Ointment
The Donuyale Essentials Blemish Ointment is a skin-friendly fusion of organic and natural ingredients that imparts a glow to the skin. It has a spice-wood fragrance and can be used on the face, body, and scalp. This ointment clears the skin within a week and makes it soft and supple. This natural product contains rich moisturizing agents that revitalize dry and dull skin. The ricinoleic acid reduces acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, and other skin and scalp issues by removing dirt and dead cells from the skin. It also reduces swelling and inflammation and improves blood circulation and flow to the skin. The product boosts the growth of healthy skin tissues and improves collagen and elastin production. It makes the skin supple, toned, and firm and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
The ointment contains organic castor, chamomile, cade, juniper berry, cinnamon leaf oils, and organic beeswax. Castor oil deeply moisturizes the skin, soothes inflamed skin, and diminishes the signs of aging. It contains nutrients that smoothen and hydrate dry skin patches. Chamomile oil reduces the appearance of scars and spots on the face. It also decreases any redness or flaring on the skin. Cade oil soothes irritated and itchy skin or scalp. Juniper berry oil soothes itching, swollen and weeping skin and helps treat scalp ailments. Cinnamon leaf oil reduces inflammation, fine lines, and wrinkles. The organic beeswax has immense anti-inflammatory and medicinal properties. The product has not undergone testing on animals.
Note: Do not use this product if you are pregnant or epileptic.
Pros
- Tones the skin
- Reduces blemishes
- Has a firming effect
- Treats mild acne
- Soothes the skin
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Cons
- Strong smell
"My blemishes have always been my worst enemy. After trying out numerous products I landed on this one. I have to say, this is extremely effective. It has worked for my blackheads and the part is, in just two days you can see the difference. It is very refreshing and lives up to the hype."
15. Best For Oily Skin:SheaMoisture African Black Soap Clarifying Facial Wipes
The SheaMoisture African Black Soap Clarifying Facial Wipes clear oily and blemish-prone skin. They contain tea tree oil that purifies and soothes the skin while removing excess oil and calendula oil that calms and heals the skin. These wipes can also be used as makeup removers. They are gentle and cruelty-free and do not contain parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, or sulfates. They are suitable, especially for oily skin, and can be used to clean the neck. For best results, follow up with an African Black Soap toner. The product has not been tested on animals.
Note: Do not use these wipes on the eyes to prevent stinging or burning.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Cruelty-free
- Imparts a soothing effect
- Removes makeup
- Suitable for oily skin
- Gentle
Cons
- Might cause breakouts
- Strong smell
Here are some tips to help you choose the best skin care product for dark skin tone.
How To Choose Skin Care Products For Dark Skin
- Skin Type: There are many skin types – normal, oily, dry, combination, acne-prone, sensitive, and very dry. Skin care products that work for a particular skin type might not work for others. Thus, before incorporating the product into your skin care routine, check the reviews to ensure it suits your skin type.
- Ingredients: Women with darker skin tone are prone to severe allergic reactions from ingredients like hydroquinone. Therefore, go for natural ingredients like shea butter, almond oil, aloe vera, baobab oil, and castor oil. These ingredients contain vitamins and fatty acids that keep dark skin moisturized and healthy. Vitamin C helps even out the skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation, and acne. Ensure the product does not contain bleaching agents, parabens, phthalate, and silicone that cause irritation, reactions, and discoloration.
Note: If you are using products with ingredients like hydroquinone, retinol, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and benzoyl peroxide, ensure they are in the FDA-approved quantity.
- Testing: Always do a patch test before application to check if the product works for your skin or causes irritation.
- Texture: Pick a product whose texture suits your skin. If you have oily skin, choose a light, non-greasy cream. For dry skin, choose a hydrating and creamy product.
Infographic: Quick Skin Care Routine For Dark Skin
Dark skin requires special attention and care to keep it healthy and glowing. The good news is there are plenty of products available to help you achieve clear and healthy skin. However, creating a customized skin care routine for dark skin can be overwhelming, especially if you are not sure where to start. Check out the infographic below to learn more about the skin care tips for dark skin.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
There are many skin care products that work very well on people with darker complexions. The Acure Brightening Day Cream helps fight free radicals, while the Ra Cosmetics African Shea Butter repairs rough and damaged skin and reduces dark spots. The Shea Terra Namibian Marula Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Oil improves skin elasticity. These products for people of color bring out the natural glow of your face while moisturizing your skin thoroughly. Most skincare products also cater to the premature signs of aging to offer younger-looking skin. From soaps to creams and facial kits, these skincare products for melanin-rich skin can easily soothe your inflammations, burns, and sores while dealing with bad acne spots. However, better avoid products that contain ingredients like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you take care of dark skin?
• Gently cleanse your skin to get rid of all dirt and grease.
• Exfoliate to improve skin texture and stimulate cell renewal by removing dead skin cells.
• Moisturize to keep your skin hydrated.
• Use a mineral sunscreen to avoid ultraviolet radiation, which increases aging, induces hyperpigmentation, and tans the skin.
• Use non-comedogenic products to minimize and prevent acne outbreaks.
Does black skin need different skincare?
No, irrespective of skin color, the components, and types of products required to treat skin issues remain the same. However, black skin tends to get dry and ashy, and hence, needs to be moisturized more often.
How can I make my dark skin glow?
• Exfoliate your skin to eliminate dead skin cells and get a more even skin tone.
• Drink a lot of water to keep your skin hydrated and revitalized.
• Moisturize your skin to keep your skin’s moisture barrier intact and to protect it from environmental damage.
• Serums contain beneficial antioxidants and skin-restoring ingredients that assist in decreasing fine lines and wrinkles while keeping skin supple, nourished, and glowing.
• Cleanse daily to remove any dirt, makeup, oil, or grime accumulated on your skin throughout the day.
• To protect your skin from UV damage, apply sunscreen.
How can dark skin look beautiful?
Apply SPF to protect yourself from sun damage.
Use a tinted moisturizer foundation.
As dark skin is prone to pimples and acne, cleanse your face twice a day to unclog the pores.
Use a toner to gently exfoliate skin and remove any accumulated filth on its surface.
How can I clean my black skin?
Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, makeup, oil, or grime built on your skin throughout the day, then exfoliate and moisturize.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach and has a keen interest in exploring products that cater to various skin needs. She has researched the best skin care products for dark skin and compiled the list.The products included in the list effectively manage dark skin issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, and eczema, and impart a glow to the skin.
Read full bio of Cecelia Wong
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Read full bio of Medha Deb
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