When it comes to dark skin, few brands specialize in creating products to give healthy skin. With the amount of damage to our skin because of the pollution and heat problem in Nigeria, the ultimate goal is to find brands that aid in maintaining healthy skin, which is why we’ve compiled the best Nigerian skincare brands for dark skin.
Before the beauty industry started creating products specifically for dark skin, the Holy Grail used by Nigerians were shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera.
Recently, Nigerian brands have started producing and improving indigenous skincare products. The ingredients in these products are best for our dark skin. This is because they include fatty acids and vitamins which help moisturize — a far cry from foreign skincare brands that contain a high amount of sulfates and irritating synthetic fragrances.
Luckily, there are a plethora of Nigerian skincare brands that incorporate our beloved shea butter and common ingredients we’ve known since childhood.
Skin Care Tips for Dark Skin
Did you know that there are specific skincare needs for people with dark skin?
Whatever your skin type is— oily, combination, or dry— it is essential that your dark skin is kept healthy. This means that there are certain tips to follow and products for your melanated skin to help your complexion look its best.
TIP #1: Always Cleanse Gently
Dark skins require a mild facial cleanser that won’t dry out the skin. All you need to do is saturate a ball of cotton wool with the cleanser and wipe it across your face to cleanse.
TIP #2: Moisturize Regularly and at a Specific Time
Another way to lock in hydration is to use moisturizer twice a day! Research on moisturizer designed for dark skin and apply while the skin is still damp.
TIP #3: Do Not Over Exfoliate
Our dark skin is sensitive to exfoliants, so always pay attention while exfoliating. It is advisable to opt for a gentle and nourishing physical exfoliant. If you are new to exfoliating, start once a week to see how your skin will react.
TIP #4: Rest Well
Not getting enough sleep at night can be detrimental to your skin. When you rest well, your body will get to recharge well and also work on renewing your skin.
TIP #5: Use Sunscreen Daily
One of the biggest myths is that dark skin should not wear sunscreen. This is untrue as melanated people can get sunburned which will result in skin cancer.
Nigerian Skincare Brands for Dark Skin
These Nigerian skincare brands below are specifically formulated for our skin and to tackle hyperpigmentation.
From moisturizers to sunscreens, these brands have products essential in keeping our dark skin healthy need all year round.
This Nigerian based skincare brand has products ranging from black soap, to glow oils and even whipped Shea buttercream.
Not only does each product have superb packaging it is also sourced from natural ingredients. The brand strongly believes that with nourishment and the right care, your skin will glow.
- Nubian Roots
Nubian Roots produces products that are affordable while maintaining a hygienic manufacturing practice.
The luxurious handcrafted skincare products are made from natural ingredients and 100% pure natural essential oils.
- Ajali
Ajali is another top Nigerian skincare brand that makes products such as body scrubs, body butter, and lip scrubs. The brand’s packaging for each of the skincare products is well detailed and top-notch.
- Skin Apothecary
Skin Apothecary is one of the top natural brands in the Nigerian beauty industry.
This product, founded by Nigerian skincare expert, Naomi Umunna, is designed to heal dark skin problems.
The brand has consistently created fabulous products from ingredients sourced in Nigeria. Outstanding among their range of products is the liquid black soap which has proven to clear skin blemishes and generally improve the ashy look on most dark skins.
Another skincare product of theirs you should try is Whipped Bubblegum; your skin would thank you for it.
Organic Nigerian Skincare Brands for Dark Skin
- HSM Organics
Located in the heart of Owerri, HSM organics goes beyond selling products for dark skin. Their products are formulated to take care of all types of skin blemishes, skin burns, rashes, acne, and pimples.
- Narganics
From the city of Lagos, Narganics has over 15 affordable organic products for dark skin. The skincare brand pays attention to detail as each product is packaged in an aesthetically pleasing way.
Their most raved and the best-selling product is the Gold infused elixir which is 100% organic and soothing on the skin.
- Orma Skincare
Orma skincare is one of the finest Nigerian skincare brands for organic products that gives a clear and steady glow. Each product is carefully formulated to firm our dark skin and reduce ageing and wrinkling. Also, when it comes to great service, Orma Skincare is a crowd fave especially because they offer free skin consultations.
- Moore Organics
The last organic skincare brand in Nigeria on my list for dark skin is Moore Organics. This Nigerian skincare has products that consist of essential oils and carrier oils. They should be your go-to brand for affordable activated charcoals in Nigeria.
The Best Sunscreens for Dark Skin
For dark skins, one of the biggest issues is Hyperpigmentation. To solve this problem, the daily use of sunscreens is advised.
Sunscreens, also called sunblocks, are lotions, sprays, gels, or any product that absorbs and reflects most of the sun’s ultraviolet rays which also helps protect dark skin against sunburn. Here’s a list of the best sunscreens you should use for dark skins.
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost
This sunscreen is effective in preventing sunburn because of its high SPF levels. Research shows that there is always an improvement in the appearance of dark skin if you regularly apply the Neutrogena Hydro Boost.
- The Altruist Dermatologist Sunscreen
This sunscreen brand developed by a bunch of dermatologists protects your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays and prevents early aging. For people prone to acne or hyperpigmentation, the sunscreen includes niacinamide (Vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants.
There you have it, the best Nigerian skincare brands for dark skin.
Are there any brands you use that are not on the list? Let me know in the comments below. Do not forget to share this post with your friends and family!
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Rachael Ebuh otherwise known as #pinchofchel is a Food and Lifestyle blogger. Passionate about food, spirituality, wild life conservation and human connection.
