Our melanin-rich skin is a stamp from birth that epitomizes our consciousness, individuality, and recognition.
This begs the question: is it possible to find moisturizers for African-American skin in a market white-washed by pop culture? Well, this research ensures the answer to that question is yes.
Interestingly, some people mistakenly believe that using moisturizers is driven solely by a desire to look good. But it is also a matter of good health.
Some studies show that ingredients—nicotinamide and SPF—prominent in the best moisturizer for black skin can help prevent skin cancer. So, having youthful, flawless skin is just an added bonus.
Daily use of the right moisturizer can also lessen the risk of our skin becoming too dry or oily. Thus, it prevents the formation of acne, which is often a result of both extremes.
Additionally, it makes sure that any imperfections in the skin are addressed. It tends to give our complexion a natural glow and can balance out uneven skin tones brought on by our nemesis, hyper-pigmentation.
The 7 Top-Rated Moisturizers for Dark Skin
A good skincare routine should, therefore, include the use of moisturizers. But these products aren’t created equal; some are superior to others. Hence, our team of experts examined a number of moisturizers to find what works best for African American skin.
| Best for | Dark Skin Moisturizers |
| Sensitive Skin | Naturewell Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Moisturizer |
| Dry Skin | Isdin Uradin Body Moisturizer |
| Face Moisturizer | La Roche-Posay Toleriane Face Moisturizer |
| Moisturizer With SPF | Alba Botanica Body Lotion With SPF 15 |
| Anti-Aging Moisturizer | Vichy LiftActiv Peptide-C Face Moisturizer |
| Affordable Moisturizer | Lubriderm Advanced Therapy Moisturizer |
| Oily Skin | Mario Badescu Aloe Moisturizer |
During this research, we were particularly interested in moisturizers that are rich in vitamins A, B5, C, and E, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, ceramides, essential oils, and more.
With this comes an instant call to duty: to preserve our heritage and maintain our skin. Anything less would be a disservice to the sophisticated beauty we all have.
Before we proceed, let’s see some ingredients to look out for.
What Is Good for Black Skin?
The following are a few ingredients in good products that can help with typical black skin issues:
- Vitamin C and E are known for safeguarding the skin from damage and preserving its freshness. They also promote collagen production, lessen hyperpigmentation, and prevent sun damage;
- Rose hips make your skin look radiant and lively. As a result of the oil’s high vitamin A content, it promotes healthier skin and prevents premature skin aging;
- Vitamin B5 also helps boost skin hydration and suppleness;
- To reduce inflammation, get rid of extra sebum, and tone your skin, use Kalahari oil. Additionally, it has rejuvenating qualities;
- Hyaluronic acid and peptides boost the skin’s hydration and reduce wrinkles by having anti-aging and regenerative capabilities. The removal of black spots is another benefit of hyaluronic acid;
- Sun protection ingredients free from para-aminobenzoic acid help stave off wrinkles by protecting our beautiful dark skin from ultraviolet rays.
Upon conducting multiple tests, Naturewell Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Moisturizer was unanimously named the best due to its unique combination of nourishing ingredients and outstanding results. Keep on reading to learn more about this and other top-performing moisturizers.
How to Use Moisturizers for African-American Skin
1. Get the Right Moisturizers
To protect your skin during the day, choose a moisturizer that is rich in vitamins and has adequate sun protection. It should be free from comedogenic oil and other ingredients that can clog the pores. As a general rule of thumb, skin products should be examined and approved by a dermatologist before use.
2. Use Tepid Water for Bathing
Taking a bath in hot water can be soothing, but it can also damage your skin. Frequent use of hot water can remove oils and moisture from your skin, leaving it dry and parched. It is thus crucial to moisturize after taking a shower.
On the other hand, while cold water may offer some benefits, it doesn’t open the pores as much as warm water would. So, maintaining a healthy level of heat is essential to aid the absorption of nutrients and vitamins.
3. Do a Patch Test Before Applying Moisturizers to Sensitive Facial Skin
It is advisable to test a facial moisturizer on a small area of the neck for a week. By doing this, you can prevent breakouts, allergic reactions, and clogged pores, in addition to making sure you enjoy the way the product feels. You can also shake the product before each use.
4. Apply Moisturizers After a Bath, Shave, or Exfoliation
It is advisable to use good moisturizers after a bath, shave, or exfoliation. It can be applied twice a day, after a refreshing bath in the morning and before bed at dusk.
Using a moisturizer right after a shower helps it sink into the skin, locking in moisture. Additionally, using moisturizers after a shave or exfoliation aids in preventing skin irritation.
What Is the Best Moisturizer for Black Skin?
Naturewell Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Moisturizer is the best moisturizer for dark skin. This moisturizer is ideal for those with sensitive skin. It nourishes and soothes dry skin with its ingredients, which are primarily vitamins and natural oils.
However, if you have extremely dry skin or are dealing with skin issues, you may require a moisturizer containing a different ingredient. Isdin Body Moisturizer is an excellent option. Furthermore, if you have acne-prone skin, you can get the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Face Moisturizer.
If a lotion and a body butter had a child it’ll be the Naturewell Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Moisturizing Cream. It has just the right texture for dry sensitive skin, works pretty well, and leaves no greasy residue.
Best Natural Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin
Key Features
First Impression
A quick look at the list of ingredients contained in this moisturizer left me smiling. It checks all the boxes and offers what I want from a body moisturizer aside from sun protection.
However, I bought the Naturewell Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Moisturizing Cream out of goodwill and in the vain expectation that it would perform the miracle that so many others had promised. Many claimed that the moisturizer performed effectively to treat several skin issues, such as eczema, psoriasis, wrinkles, and dark spots.
In my experience, its performance on eczema left much to be desired. It did reawaken the acne on my face, but it cleared off when I reduced the quantity. So, users with acne-prone facial skin are better off applying La Roche-Posay Toleriane Moisturizer on the face and Naturewell on the body.
I recommend doing a patch test before using it in this area. Aside from that, it has done an excellent job of locking in moisture in my skin—and on the rest of my body. I felt and looked fresher. I also use this after shaving.
Consistency
The lotion spreads evenly and has a wonderful consistency, leaving little to no residue on your skin. Initially, the lotion appears to be very thick, but as soon as you apply it to your hands and gently rub it in, it gradually dissolves.
My hands still feel supple even after washing them. The protection offered by the cream has been quite good for the time I have used it—summertime and winter—making it a reliable hydrating lotion for use throughout the year on dry or scaly skin.
Having said that, if you’re buying it for a skin issue of any kind, especially if you’re applying it to your face, take caution. For those of us who suffer from acne-prone facial skin, it’s difficult to find products that won’t cause us to break out. And when we finally do, it works for some, but not all of us.
Even so, it is worthwhile to purchase Naturewell Body Moisturizer if you only intend to use it to hydrate dry or scaly skin. However, if you expect it to have healing properties that’ll combat eczema and keratosis, you should explore other options. Perhaps the Isdin Body Moisturizer might be just what you need.
The Scent
This lotion’s flavor has my dog completely hooked. She is drawn to the scent and comically sniffs my legs. It’s come to the point that, despite my best efforts, I can’t put it on without her smelling it.
She comes racing from across the house, wagging her tail. Perhaps she believes this is one of her treats. I wonder why she’d think I’d bathe up in treats for her. Granted, the lotion is effective, but if you don’t want your dog to lick the hell out of you, it poses a dilemma.
What I Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
For all-around black skin care after a shower, Naturewell Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Moisturizing Cream is the best I’ve found. It hydrates black skin without leaving a greasy residue. It has a nice, fresh feel. Furthermore, it doesn’t irritate the skin, and you can wear makeup and apply sunscreen over it. It doesn’t interfere with your cologne or perfume because it is faintly scented. That said, be careful how much sun you receive if you’re using this moisturizer without sunscreen because it offers no sun protection.
Want Lighter Consistency?
You can check out our assessment of some of the best black men’s lotions if you’d prefer a guide that tests effective lotions with a thinner texture.
Isdin Body Moisturizer is an ideal solution when all else fails. It eliminates dead skin cells, gets absorbed easily, doesn’t irritate the skin, and has a gentle scent—all the features we want from a moisturizer for dry black skin.
Best Hydrating Moisturizer for Dry Skin
Key Features
First Impression
Similar to the foot gel, the Isdin moisturizer is costly but worth it! From the first time you use it, it makes your skin soft and silky.
It has a pleasant scent that isn’t overpowering or floral, making it great for both African-American men and women. I’ve used two products from this brand and both have been excellent.
Urea-based lotions often work great but are way too expensive. Interestingly, it’s the urea ingredient that does the trick. The good news is that this isn’t as pricey as some other brands. I’m excited I discovered this lotion as a substitute for the less expensive options on this list because it works much better in some circumstances.
If you’re not a lotion-after-shower kind of person, you should be used to the feeling of waiting for most lotions to get absorbed before putting your clothes on. Contrarily, the Isdin Body Lotion sinks into the skin quickly, maintaining a fresh and cozy feeling.
Plus, you don’t have to worry about having bumpy skin. Within two applications, there is a significant improvement in keratosis pilaris on the arms and legs. Hence, it made it to the list of best moisturizers for black skin. More on that later. First, let’s discuss the recommended way to apply Isdin Body Lotion.
How to Use the Isdin Body Moisturizer
It works best when used right after a shower in order to retain the moisture that is already on the skin. Use it regularly—in the morning and before bed at night—to effectively help with skin problems. I appreciate that it absorbs into my skin quite well overnight, doesn’t leave a greasy residue, and doesn’t take forever to rub in.
Reapply once your hands, arms, legs, or feet start getting too dry again. Our dermatologist suggested this to a friend who has had extremely dry skin for a number of years, and it relieved the symptoms.
Criticism
While this works quickly and effectively to hydrate the skin, doesn’t feel oily, and does absorb after a short period, it isn’t perfect. The drawback is that it’s more expensive than other products I’ve used with comparable levels of urea and/or lactic acid. Granted, I’m only willing to pay such a price for a product if it’s of high quality. However, given everyone’s perception of smell is different, some users like the scent, but others don’t.
It smells more perfume-like than the way Ponds creams do. I’m a little more sensitive to scents, so it’s a touch too fragrant for me, but my partner likes the way it smells. Other than that, the urea-based lotion did a good job of moisturizing and hydrating my legs.
Note: A single application won’t last all day if you have extremely dry skin.
What I Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
Isdin moisturizer will win your heart. Despite being thin, it performs just as well as heavier brands. There is nothing greasy, sticky, or thick that has to dry. And small amounts can go a long way. You want that in a body lotion, right? Although your skin needs this, the scent won’t make somebody say, “Hi, you smell fantastic.” It has a scent so subtle most people won’t even notice. The only concern is the price. This is still a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for.
With the La Roche-Posay Face Moisturizer, you’re sure of three things. Firstly, it’s an unscented moisturizer great for acne-prone skin. Secondly, there are no allergies or adverse reactions. Thirdly, it’s light on the skin and is free from harsh chemicals.
Best Face Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin
Key Features
First Impression
I got my first sample from a dermatologist’s office. The La Roche-Posay Face Moisturizer impressed me. So, I bought a tube thereafter. The unit I bought appears a bit different, but overall, it works well on brown skin. It makes my skin feel like butter.
It is a creamy, white lotion that has no fragrance. Upon applying it to the skin, it feels a little sticky but quickly dissolves, leaving my skin feeling silky and smooth. My skin doesn’t become greasy or feel heavy from it. Given its amazing results, I also use it on my hands and chest.
Ingredients
In addition to being free from parabens, fragrance, and oil, the La Roche-Posay Facial Moisturizer is enriched with niacinamide and ceramide. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) helps regulate skin prone to acne as well as brightens and soothes the skin. It has anti-aging components that help repair the skin and assist in reducing enlarged pores.
Ceramides, on the other hand, aid in promoting the barrier function of the skin and improving moisture retention. Both ingredients work together to give you soft, radiant, youthful skin.
Usability
As a night cream, this moisturizer performs admirably. Despite being a light cream, it has almost the same effects as a thicker night cream. I wake up with my face feeling moist and soft without being greasy or making a mess on my bed sheets. This is way better than the heavier night creams I have previously used.
How Well It Works With Makeup
As mentioned earlier, ceramides are present in this lotion, which is something I’m trying to use more on my skin. Even though I have sensitive skin, this lotion doesn’t irritate or sting. However, it doesn’t work well with a foundation, and that’s the only issue. Using makeup alongside this moisturizer could lead to pilling and flaking. You might also experience pilling if you apply too much moisturizer.
I will continue to use this because it’s lightweight, oil-free, and reasonably priced. It keeps my facial skin moisturized for well over twelve hours, but I’m not sure about the promise that it will keep your skin moisturized for 48.
Nonetheless, given the possibility that it might not mix well with your brand of sunscreen or makeup, I advise buying only one tube at first to test it out.
Note: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer has no sunscreen in its formula. Hence, it is recommended to wait at least 10 minutes after using the moisturizer before applying sunscreen to prevent it from pilling up into balls.
Also, the product won’t pill if you apply it in small amounts. It can also pill if you don’t wash your face properly before using it or have a product under it.
What I Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
Since I have delicate skin that is susceptible to acne, most facial moisturizers that worked reasonably well on my skin often made me break out down the road. Thankfully, La Roche-Posay Face Moisturizer keeps my face hydrated without making me break out. Although it may pill up if used incorrectly, it’s a high-quality product for black queens and kings with sensitive facial skin.
For Better Results, Wash Your Face Before Applying Moisturizers
To find out which facial washes work best on darker skin tones, check out our detailed analysis of black men’s face washes.
Looking for a black skin moisturizer with SPF that absorbs into the skin beautifully, leaving the skin feeling buttery soft, non-greasy, and glowing? Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion gives decent protection from the sun with some nourishing ingredients included in its formula.
Best Black Skin Moisturizer With SPF
Key Features
First Impression
Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion has a superior quality to most brands. Since I wanted a moisturizer and sunscreen in the same product, this seemed like a really good deal.
However, Alba Botanicals’ choice of colors is shocking. It now uses a not-so-attractive yellow bottle. The previous bottle looks better on my bathroom counter. I hope they change their minds and go back to the opaque option.
So, instead of the previous white plastic bottle, it arrived in new packaging that was made of yellow plastic. When I removed the shipping plastic covering the pump, I found a broken white cap and pump that had fallen off.
Fortunately, I was able to reinstall the pump in the lid, and it operated without issue. As for the smell, it’s alright; it vaguely reminds me of old Coppertone sunscreen.
How to Use Alba Botanicals Body Moisturizer in Arid Regions
If you have extremely dry black skin or live in an arid region, you may notice dryness a few hours after the initial application. Therefore, it is advisable to reapply the moisturizer once your skin feels dry.
Better yet, mix the moisturizer with some oil. It became a little more hydrating after I mixed in some oil while applying. You can also do this by applying a bit of oil to your palms with each pump of lotion.
Moreover, I added orange essential oils to it and filled a jar with the mixture, which now has a beautiful scent. I’m still delighted with this product even if it doesn’t completely relieve my itchy winter skin as I had anticipated.
It is really hydrating and makes my skin feel silky and smooth. This will last me for a very long time, especially considering the enormous bottle it comes in.
Performance in Humid Weather
Even though I think this is a really cool concept, I believe the formula needs to be slightly changed. Most thick moisturizers take a long time to get into the skin, but this one appears to take a little longer than most, especially if the weather is humid.
I would advise using a very small quantity, and if it’s a particularly hot or humid day, stand near a fan or in an air-conditioned room for a few minutes to let your skin absorb it a little.
Available Options
Here are the five variants I found:
- Coconut Rescue Moisturizer
- Daily Shade SPF 15 Moisturizer
- Maximum Moisturizer for Black Skin
- Original Moisturizer
- Unscented Moisturizer
The unscented version is a great choice if you don’t like fragrances included in your body lotions or have an extreme sensitivity to smells. Here’s a comparison between the two variants.
The Coconut Rescue vs. the Unscented Version
The Unscented Alba Botanica Very Emollient Lotion was something I had previously tried and really enjoyed using.
After using it a few times, I saw a difference in the appearance of my skin because it hydrates the skin so well and absorbs swiftly, making your body supple. I jumped on it when I heard about the coconut rescue because of its remarkable performance and my love of the coconut scent.
Similar to the unscented form, this lotion has a lot of positive qualities. My skin felt moisturized and silky thanks to this excellent moisturizer. More importantly, the coconut flavor isn’t overpoweringly sweet.
Yet, the fact that this requires a lot of work to soak into the skin is the one significant drawback. This lotion actually becomes whiter and whiter the more you rub it in. Thus, the coconut rescue is excellent if you don’t mind making the effort.
Note: It isn’t easy to get a significant amount of the lotion out after it goes past a certain point. To get lotion to come out of the bottle, you must repeatedly pull the pump out and bang it upside down.
What I Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
Like every good moisturizer for dark skin, this has a mild scent, appearance, and feel. Alba Botanica Body Lotion is the product for you if you’re seeking a thick daily moisturizer with SPF. Take care when using this on oily skin. A little goes a long way, so if you apply too much, you’d have to rub it in for a while to remove the white cast. With the right quantity, it absorbs smoothly, leaves a slight glow, and offers decent sun protection, making it the best indoor sunscreen.
The search for the fountain of youth begins after you reach a certain age. I haven’t discovered it yet. So, the best course of action is to locate some effective facial products or to get surgery (if you have the means). Exercises for the face are available, although their effectiveness is still up for debate.
Best Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer for Wrinkles
Key Features
First Impression
This moisturizing cream has a pale pink hue. It comes in a glass jar that is crimson with a somewhat thick consistency. I really like the jar. The appearance is quite elegant, with a contrasting white lid on top of the container. Although the cream itself has a little aroma, I don’t mind it at all. This lotion is supposed to hydrate, tighten, and brighten the skin. And it does just that.
It’s a non-greasy cream that works for most skin types. Thus, it doesn’t make the skin feel heavier than usual. It absorbs easily, leaves no residue, and leaves the skin with a smooth feel similar to a primer.
I haven’t noticed much improvements to wrinkles, perhaps in the long run they’ll be more prominent. I was impressed with how well it worked on oily skin. Normally, it’s difficult to find a moisturizer that doesn’t make oily skin feel greasy. But this works almost as well as the Mario Badescu Aloe Moisturizer.
Ingredients
The building blocks of proteins, which make up healthy skin, are amino acid chains known as peptides. But how about your skin? Collagen deteriorates as people age.
It is what gives our skin its thickness and velvety softness. Research has shown that peptides can instruct the skin to produce more collagen when administered topically, resulting in healthier and softer skin. Is this a gimmick? Is it credible? The fact is, it has been supported by independent research.
In addition to that, according to another study, using a vitamin C formulation on a daily basis for at least three months reduced both the appearance of fine and coarse wrinkles on the face and neck as well as enhancing the texture and appearance of the skin as a whole. When used along with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, vitamin C may also assist in shielding the skin from damaging UV rays.
Vichy calls the combination of these two anti-aging ingredients “Peptide-C.” That said, it’s concerning that some ingredients listed in its contents appear to be entirely composed of chemicals. However, I became less concerned when I discovered that they’ve been tested on sensitive skin and do not cause allergies.
Usability
In the long run, it improves the skin texture of elderly men and women, making those horizontal creases less noticeable. It also helps to make the face feel soft, so you’ll notice a difference in your appearance.
This isn’t my first experience using a product from Vichy. I once got a sample of this product and ended up appreciating it so much that I decided to buy it. Even while I agree that I could live without the aroma, I have grown to like it and believe that it must be of high quality. Despite having incredibly sensitive skin, I have had no negative reactions to the fragrance.
The primary reason I adore this product is the way it feels. Yes, it has a “powdery” texture, but that is what makes my pores appear so much smaller.
How to Use Peptide-C Anti-Aging Moisturizer
To get the best results, take the right actions. These steps are practical for any face moisturizer.
- If you have the Vichy cleanser, use it; if not, use your regular cleanser, but be sure to thoroughly clean your face of all makeup and pollutants.
- Then use a toner to prepare your skin for the moisturizing cream
- After giving your face a light massage, retire to bed.
Since I was lazy the first few weeks, I didn’t do it properly, but after taking it seriously for a week, I am now in love with this product. Making sure you do things right is incredibly important. The darkest place on my face has also lightened a little bit, and my skin feels firmer, smoother, and tighter.
Available Options
I discovered six variations. They consist of:
- Idealia Smooth Energizing Moisturizer
- Peptide-C Moisturizer
- Supreme Anti-Wrinkle Night Moisturizer
- Supreme Anti-Wrinkle Day Moisturizer
- Hyaluronic Moisturizer
- Aqualia Moisturizer
At around a third of its cost, you can get the less expensive Olay advanced age-defying gel. Does Vichy hydrate or minimize lines more? Not that I can observe. However, occasionally treating yourself to a little extra money feels wonderful, so let your wallet be your guide.
What I Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
All in all, this anti-aging face moisturizer from Vichy does a good job of moisturizing for more than 12 hours, brightening the skin, and tightening pores. It has a pleasant, light aroma that dissipates over time.
Wonderful product and pricing. Have you got extremely dry skin that itches horribly? The Advanced formula from Lubriderm is perhaps the most cost-effective solution.
Best Cheap Moisturizer for Dry Skin
Lotion
Key Features
First Impression
Because I am a sucker for attractive packaging, I don’t really want to utilize things that come in bottles that resemble these. Instead, I would rather store them away. There is just no justification for Lubriderm having such unsightly packaging. Why not make it more modern?
Well, it made this list because it works and it’s a terrific deal. Since Lubriderm is listed as a moisturizing cream, I ordered it in a tub. Besides, I haven’t had the best experience with the fragile pump on the lotion bottle. Even better, the lotion in a pump container looks to have the same formula as this. The consistency was thick and rich, as was my expectation.
Scooping lotion out of a jar rather than utilizing the meager amount that a bottle pumps out may be preferable if you’re using a lot of it. In order to smooth out my rough heels, I was really looking for a cream that was this thick. This is the best affordable moisturizer on the market, regardless of the packaging.
Usability
This lotion is actually scentless, which I like. Although slightly thicker than other lotions, it distributes well and is easy to apply. It lasts longer since it’s thicker.
This is a great advantage for me because I don’t like having to reapply lotion all day. Unless I’ve taken another shower, it feels off. The only aspect of it that needs improvement is that it feels slippery when your skin gets wet.
I understand it’s common, but I detest the sensation, especially if I’m attempting to wash my hands and the water isn’t washing thoroughly enough. Since I don’t generally use much lotion on my hands, this isn’t a major drawback for me. However, if you tend to perspire frequently, this may not feel wonderful for you.
I’ve only been using this for a week or two, but I’ve already noticed a difference in the texture, dryness, and smoothness of my heels. This cream will be fantastic for people with sensitive skin as well.
Performance on Eczema
I’m also glad that this hasn’t upset my eczema, which flares up in little spots every now and then, and that I’m able to apply it to my face without breaking out. I was relieved because I don’t enjoy looking scaly and rough, and it helped cure the dry places on my face caused by the hard winter cold. This is another reason why it made the list of best moisturizers for black skin.
Consistency
It applies easily and gives you some time to work it in before it is absorbed. Especially on my hands, it keeps the skin of black men moisturized for a long time. A drop the size of a nickel will work just for this, given its wonderful, rich, creamy texture.
The texture is akin to that of whipped cream, though I wouldn’t call it that. Getting it to soak in does require some rubbing, but not more than most other lotions, neither Cerave nor Eucerin. It doesn’t leave my skin greasy or oily as Eucerin does.
It’s intended to provide moisture continuously. In light of the fact that I have incredibly dry skin, I have yet to find a moisturizer that actually provides me with benefits for 24 hours, and this one is no exception. It does appear to last longer than most lotions, which I tested. However, after applying it the previous evening after a shower, I sometimes feel the urge to reapply it in the morning.
What I Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
Lubriderm Advanced Therapy Moisturizing Lotion genuinely heals dry, chapped skin over time and is such a soothing moisturizer. It is affordable yet remarkably useful. Use this after taking a bath or shower to cover your entire body in the winter. Go ahead and be generous; it isn’t greasy. Your relief will be palpable. Any tweaks to Lubriderm’s unscented aroma and packaging would be nice.
Finding a moisturizer that doesn’t make oily skin greasier can be a long-term challenge. But this product accomplishes just that—it soothes any dryness on the cheeks or forehead, avoids over-moisturizing my t-zone, absorbs swiftly, and leaves my skin with a matte finish.
Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin
Black men and women looking for a moisturizer that won’t trigger more oil production or lead to new breakouts should try this. Unlike most moisturizers with sun protection, there were no strange fragrances or side effects that caused my skin to break out.
Key Features
First Impression
Do you frequently break out due to incredibly sensitive skin and, as a result, rarely wear facial sunscreen other than what is in your makeup? It seems those days are over. The Mario Badescu Aloe Moisturizer isn’t greasy, absolutely odorless, lightweight, and can help your skin heal faster. You’ll be surprised to find out that using it won’t cause you to break out.
In a bid to find a moisturizer that was water-based and had some SPF, this brand was recommended by a friend who is a makeup artist. The price initially made me laugh, but I ended up purchasing it for my missus. She loves that it has an SPF and that it is lightweight and extremely hydrating.
Lotions with SPF are typically too heavy for oily skin, but this isn’t! It is really light. This is perfect for sensitive skin that requires SPF and water-based skin hydration. If you’re going to be near the pool or outdoors all day, use a higher SPF sunscreen made for that.
Usability
Your face will initially appear a touch oily, but give it a minute or two and the greasy feeling will disappear. So little is often enough. Bear in mind that it’s advisable to use this moisturizer before applying your primer.
It doesn’t smell as horrible as most sunscreens. Having said that, it does make everything look a bit too heavy for some folks when they wear it underneath some makeup.
What I Like
What Can Improve
Final Verdict
Mario Badescu Aloe Moisturizer has a light, mattifying texture. Although not heavy, it moisturizes oily skin effectively. This wouldn’t be for you if you have dry skin. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a balance with SPF that doesn’t have a lot of extra smell or other garbage because your skin is aging and oily, this is a great choice. Furthermore, this doesn’t smell like sunscreen.
I’ll keep this guide updated as I find more high-quality moisturizers for brown skin. These are the best on the market for the time being. Let’s look at why getting a good moisturizer is unquestionably important.
Why Dark Skin Needs the Best Moisturizers
The short answer is, it relieves keratosis pilaris symptoms. Keratosis pilaris is a benign skin condition that results in little, rough bumps on the skin. It is commonly found on the cheeks, back, upper chest, arms, thighs, and buttocks. Normally, the tiny bumps don’t itch or cause any pain. Some folks don’t even realize that they have it.
You might ask, what causes keratosis pilaris? Some studies show that black skin regenerates slower and has higher acidity levels than the skin of other races. As a result, serine proteases—the enzymes that induce skin peeling—are less active. This leads to a buildup of dead skin cells that can eventually clog skin pores. Thus, the skin becomes thicker and more textured.
Furthermore, dark skin has a higher tendency to be rough and scaly due to the absence of ceramides on the skin’s surface. Its dryness is also made more obvious by the absence of skin lipids. The good news is, the condition usually disappears as one grows older. Even better, some moisturizers can help relieve the symptoms.
To treat keratosis pilaris, use any urea-based lotion like the Isdin Body Lotion for more than four weeks. Your skin will feel softer and more pleasant to touch. The urea-based lotion keeps the skin hydrated for a longer period of time than most creams.
Using a Good Body Soap Is a Step In the Right Direction
Use high-quality soaps, like those mentioned in our research titled Best Soap for Black Men: Top 5 Brands Reviewed, to keep your melanin-rich skin exceptionally smooth.
The Bottom Line
The maintenance of clear, supple, and bright black skin can be aided by developing a good skin care regimen. People with dark skin should strive to stay away from utilizing items that contain abrasive chemicals and scents.
In addition to using the best moisturizers for black skin and adopting a healthy diet, dermatologists also advise using sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. This helps to protect against the development and deepening of dark spots as well as more serious health issues like skin cancer.
About the Author
Dante Morton
Grooming ProfessionalDante Morton is a grooming professional and fashion expert. He has a jovial personality and a passion for skincare, as well as styling hair and beards of black men. Before joining GroomHour, Dante worked with several big players in the beauty industry. Join Dante and several monthly readers on GroomHour.com, and enrich your lifestyle with reliable grooming resources.
