Naturally, everybody’s skin is different, but did you know that your ethnicity and genetic makeup can impact how your skin behaves? At Skin NV, one of the main questions we get asked is about Asian skincare – why is Asian skin different? In this blog, we will break down a few of the key differences to help you treat Asian skin effectively.
Have you noticed that your skin changes throughout the year depending on the season? Well, climate plays a big part in your overall skin health.
Those of Asian descent may find they are prone to certain skin conditions, such as hyperpigmentation due to their adaptation to climate, and pigment composition within the skin. You may find that adapting your skincare routine to include certain ingredients may help.
Asian skincare – why is Asian skin different?
Let’s start with some good news. Asian skin tends to age at a slower rate than Caucasian skin. This is because Asian skin naturally tends to have a thicker dermis, which means an increased amount of collagen and elastin. As both proteins are vital in the skin’s overall health, the more collagen and elastin you have, the more supple and hydrated your skin stays, which in turn may mean fewer wrinkles.
However, it is important that you still take special care of your skin to preserve that natural youth. Don’t forget to use daily SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA, and UVB rays, and choose products specifically designed to help support the skin barrier function and target any other concerns you may have.
Now, one condition that people of Asian descent tend to experience more often is oily skin. This is due to the warmer climate in Asian countries, so decedents from those warmer climates, with a deeper skin tone, may find they tend to produce more oil throughout the day.
Unfortunately, this oil production can leave you more susceptible to acne breakouts if oils and bacteria become trapped in the pores. Now, in some cases, acne on Asian skin may form as keloids or hardened bumps and reddening and if left untreated, this could lead to deep scarring.
Luckily, there are plenty of treatment options available, including chemical exfoliation, collagen induction, micro needling and micro-infusion to help address and minimise scarring. There are also topical skincare remedies available to help control breakouts, and support the skin.
What Skincare should I use for Oily Skin?
In terms of skincare, you should try to incorporate a double cleanse routine, this will help to eliminate excess sebum, and help remove trapped bacteria from the pores. You may also find it beneficial to use exfoliants, such as salicylic acid to help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.
Sensitive Skin
Besides oily skin, Asian skin may be more sensitive, and more likely to develop scars, including acne scarring. This is due to a thinner stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the epidermis. This can make the skin more sensitive, so it is important that you remain mindful of anything, including lifestyle factors, or skincare ingredients that irritate your skin, and avoid them where possible.
Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common issues among those of Asian descent. This is down to the increased melanin within the skin. This could leave you more prone to skin pigmentation, freckles, and sunspots.
What can help Sensitive Skin?
Chemical peel treatments can help address any pigmentation issues within the skin by removing dead and coloured skin cells from the outer layers of the skin.
When looking at skincare, a good place to start is Vitamin C, not only is this a great antioxidant it can help to repair sun damage, alleviate scarring, and even boost the efficiency of your SPF.
Here at Skin NV, we have a range of skin treatments and skincare to help address any of your skin concerns, contact our team today.
