Just as there are different skin types such as combination and sensitive, there are also different skin types based on ethnicity.
- The epidermis (top layer of skin) of Asian skin is more compact whilst the dermis (next layer down) is thicker and contains more collagen. This means that wrinkling develops later and is not so marked as in Caucasian skin types.
- Asian skin also contains larger mast cells granules and fibroblasts making it more prone to the development of raised, thickened keloid scars.
- Asian skin types contain more melanin, which leads to its darker colour in contrast to Caucasian skin, This increase in melanin also decreases the likelihood of skin cancers developing.
- The increased melanin seen in Asian skin makes it more susceptible to the development of dark age spots and blotchy uneven pigmentation in the sun exposed areas of the hands and the face.
- It’s still really important to apply a broad spectrum sunscreen (such as SPF50) to prevent the development of dyspigmentation. Even in the colder months of autumn and winter, UVA and UVB rays are still present in the atomosphere and damage can still be done to skin, leading to premature ageing, wrinkling and the development of skin cancers.
- Asian skin is also more reactive to inflammation and trauma leading to the development of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Brown patchy marks are therefore often found in sites of minor scratches and insect bites, and can be very slow to resolve.
- The ingredient hydroquinone found in fading creams can be helpful in evening out dyspigmentation. However, make sure that the cream does not cause skin irritation and dryness as this may lead to a secondary post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
What’s your best tip for looking after Asian skin? Tell us in the comments below.
