As the only Latina aesthetician at Rescue I feel it is my duty to represent skin of color.  Thanks to Dr. Seema Patel, I have 10 years of treating ethnic skin as a Medical Aesthetician.  Most men and women of color are hesitant to try Facials or Laser Treatments for fear of of scarring.  Why? Because of hyperpigmentation.  Yes the dreaded post inflammatory dark scar that remains after trauma has occurred on the skin.  On lighter skin types these scars typically fades over time.  On darker skin types these scars can become permanent.  Let’s do a quick reference on how ethnic skin is defined using the good old Fitzpatrick Skin Type Classification Scale.  This scale measures 2 things, your genetic disposition and your skins reaction to sun exposure.  It ranges from skin type I (Nicole Kidman) to FitzPatrick VI  (Lupita Nyong’o) and since I’m Latina I’m going to throw in Jennifer Lopez Fitzpatrick IV.

Skin Type Reference…

Good news is that the esthetic world is evolving and acknowledging that ethnic skin takes special training and needs a different approach to treating our skin concerns.  Now there are safer lasers to treat unwanted hair on darker skin types and lasers that tighten and contour the skin (Sublime/Refirme) and if you are still nervous you can try theEnergy Lift Facial which is a great intro on the Sublime/Refirme laser treatment.  We also have the Velashape which treats cellulite and tightens the skin.  For those looking to receive a good skin care routine or needs help addressing their skin care concerns, a complimentary consultation can help or simply booking a classic facial so that I can get to know your skin.

Here are some of my favorite products:

For hyperpigmentation (dark marks)

Environ Clarifying Lotion twice a day followed by C-Boost cream (Vitamin C) works well to clarify these areas.

I also love Valmont’s Expert of Light Product Line.  It features Valmont’s Clarifying Infusion Serum it really evens out your skin tone and has Glycolic Acid which helps to smooth and brighten your skin. Valmont’s Clarifying Packis a wonderful cream mask.  Smooth this mask all over your face neck and chest (Avoid eye area) leave on for 10 minutes and you have an instant bright complexion and an awesome glow.

The product I can’t live without is Lotion P50 1970 by Biologique Recherche.  I use this twice a day after cleansing and before I moisturize.  This awesome potion brightens up any skin tone and helps to balance the skin.  It has so many benefits that a Grandmother and Granddaughter can walk out with this in their shopping bag.

Before you snatch these products it is best to get a skin consultation or facial to determine which products are appropriate for your skin.  The beauty of color is that there are so many beautiful shades to represent our heritages.  Let’s keep our skin looking healthy and beautiful!