If You Have Black or Brown Skin, Estheticians Say Your Moisturizer Needs *This*

Best moisturizers for Black skin

(Image credit: @amagodson_a)

I've struggled with dark spots for as long as I can remember. Basically, if you're Black or Brown and acne prone, you probably feel my pain. It wasn't until I added the right ingredients to my skincare routine that I started to notice a significant and lasting improvement. I learned that there's one key product that can make or break your routine—your moisturizer. If it doesn't have the right ingredients for melanated skin, well, let's just say you could be hurting rather than helping your skin goals. Luckily though, I have estheticians on speed dial who are willing to give some sound advice on the matter. Below, I'm breaking down what to look for in a moisturizer if you have Black or Brown skin and the best ones to buy. Keep on scrolling.

What to Look for in a Moisturizer for Melanated Skin

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(Image credit: @stellasimona)

"Black and Brown skin can be more prone to certain skin concerns, such as hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone," says esthetician and Klur founder Lesley Thornton. "Look for ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, licorice extract, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and non-aggressive acids that can exfoliate the skin without stripping or irritating."

"Moisturizers should contain ingredients that provide and retain hydration in the skin with emollients and occlusives to help create a barrier on the skin's surface, preventing moisture loss. Look for noncomedogenic formulas to avoid clogged pores and breakouts—these formulations are less likely to cause acne or worsen existing skin issues. Sun protection against harmful UV rays is also crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Look for moisturizers that contain broad-spectrum SPF to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Aim for SPF 30 or higher."

Thornton's top moisturizer pick for Black and Brown skin is below along with a few of my own favorites.

Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer

Klur Sculpture + A Overnight Enrichment Cream

Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Face Moisturizer

The Inkey List Omega Water Cream Moisturizer

Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Gel Cream Moisturizer

Farmacy Daily Greens Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer

Shani Darden Skin Care Hydration Peptide Cream

OAM Vitamin C Radiance Moisturizer

InnBeauty Project 10+ 10 Moisturizer

Dr. Zenovia Skincare Peptide + Ceramide Repairing Moisturizer

Philosphy Multi-Rejuvenating Cream SPF 30

This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Shawna Hudson
Associate Beauty Editor

Shawna Hudson has worked in editorial for over six years, with experience covering entertainment, fashion, culture, celebrities, and her favorite topic of all, beauty. She graduated from California State University, Fullerton, with a degree in journalism and has written for other publications such as Bustle, The Zoe Report, Byrdie, Elite Daily, Mane Addicts, and more. She is currently an associate beauty editor at Who What Wear and hopes to continue feeding her (completely out-of-control) beauty obsession as long as she can. Stay up to date on her latest finds on Instagram @shawnasimonee.