All skin is different, but there are some things that all black men need to consider in their skin routine. Darker skin can react differently to ingredients, skin conditions and external factors so choose your products wisely.

There are four different skin types that you should know about. As a rule, work with your skin type first and then look to treat any issues or conditions. Here are the main skin types, and how to decide what yours is:

• Dry – skin can feel tight, flaky and looks dull.
• Normal – skin is pretty balanced, not too oily or dry in any part.
• Oily – skin looks shiny, prone to breakouts and you may be able to feel the oil on there.
• Combination – a mixture of skin types. Usually your forehead and nose (known as your T-Zone) will be oily but your cheeks are dry.

Skin can also be sensitive as well as dry, normal, oily or combination. This might mean that your skin reacts to certain kinds of products, or the being in the sun. You can end up with itchy skin, sensitivity and bumps.

Here’s what you need to know about skincare for black men, how to work with different skin types and the best skincare products for black men:

1. For normal to combination, black skin, Dr Barbara Sturm Darker skin Tone Face Cleanser It’s soap-free, gentle and uses plant-based cleansers which respect the skin’s natural balance. It’s also moisturising, cleansing and inhibits melanin overproduction to reduce hyperpigmentation.
2. Use a toner – Evolve Organic Beauty Liquid Radiance Glycolic Face Toner is great for all skin types
3. Use a light, oil- free moisturiser or serum that contains hyaluronic acid to keep your skin hydrated without causing an oil overload. Try Evolve Organic Beauty Daily Renewal Cream for hydration and to keep the sebum balance on the skin.

In general, men’s skin is thicker and oilier than women’s. This can be even more true when it comes to black skin, which can be a blessing when it comes to the signs of ageing. However, it can lead to blocked pores, breakouts and acne. Here are our recommendations:

1. For oily, acne-prone black skin, we recommend cleansing with Nuhanciam Dermo-Purifying Anti-Blemish Gel Face Cleanser. It’s gentle and soap-free but still eliminates impurities like excess sebum without causing hyperpigmentation.
2. Use a toner – Freya & Bailey Lit! Decongest Face Toner is great for skin that struggles with breakouts or blocked pores.
3. 3. Use a light, oil- free moisturiser or serum that contains hyaluronic acid to keep your skin hydrated without causing an oil overload. Try Meylon Detox Serum or for hydration without increasing oil production.

Over time your skin can also become sensitive to certain ingredients or products. You’ll usually be able to tell as your skin may change colour slightly from irritation, and your skin may feel hot or swollen.

For sensitive skin, we recommend Nuhanciam Gentle Cleansing Foam Clarifying Face Wash. It’s soap-free, gentle and uses plant-based cleansers which respect the skin’s natural balance. It’s also moisturising, cleansing and inhibits melanin overproduction to reduce hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation (aka dark spots), razor burn and sun damage can all be issues for black men when it comes to skincare. Nuhanciam Blemish Eraser is also a great choice for treating spots. It’s oil-free, reduces the appearance of spots – drying them out and reducing their size – as well as minimising the appearance of residual marks.

We believe that by using the best skin care products for black skin, your skin can look its best. Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to skin care for men, so if you haven’t already got a skincare routine…it’s time to start.