Skin Tightening and Darker Skins

If your skin has started to sag, it may be time to take the plunge and invest in a skin tightening treatment. With so many different types now on offer, there has never been a better time to say goodbye to loose skin.

Whether you're young or old, great skin is important. If affects how you look and how you feel. If you've got darker skin, however, navigating through the skin tightening treatment market is a little more difficult. But don't worry. Below, you'll find out everything you need to know so you can book a procedure with confidence!

Is Skin Ever Too Dark for Skin Tightening Treatment?

In the past, those with dark skin have shied away from skin tightening treatments. Many believed they were only suitable for those with lighter skin tones.

While it's true that some procedures aren't recommended for those with darker skin, there are still a range of procedures that are suitable for such people.

What's the Difference Between Light and Dark Skin

Light skin and dark skin are virtually identical on a molecular level. It's only once you begin to look at melanin levels that you notice some subtle differences between the two types. Those with darker skin tend to distribute melanocytes that produce this pigment in a slightly different way. Unfortunately, certain skincare procedures have been known to disrupt the melanocytes, which can cause pigmentation loss in certain areas.

Those with lighter skin aren't at risk of this due to the way their body distributes melanin. While those with dark skin risk discoloration and other problems, those with light skin are at a low risk of developing complications as a result of treatment.

Procedures That Those With Dark Skin Should Avoid

If you have dark skin and are looking tighten it with the help of a cosmetic procedure, it's important to know what ones will be suitable for you.

Because most medical lasers often irritate melanocytes, those with dark skin are advised to avoid them. Some clinics do carry lasers specially designed for dark skin complexions; however, do find out if your clinic is one of them before booking a session.

Another treatment best avoided by those with dark skin is microdermabrasion. This particular treatment removes the epidermal layer, exposing the oil glands. As those with dark skin tend to have larger oil glands, this can worsen problems like blackheads and acne.

A chemical peel should also be avoided in order to reduce to risk of adverse reactions. The strong chemicals used as part of this treatment can cause pigmentation damage, and can even bleach the skin leaving it several shades lighter than it was originally.

Alternative Treatments for Those With Dark Skin

Despite being somewhat limited when it comes to treatment options, those with darker skin do have some choice when it comes to skin tightening.

Safer options such as ultrasound or radio frequency treatments are the best bet as neither of these interfere with melanin deposits. Instead, these wave-based procedures encourage collagen production, without any of the downsides.

Don't let darker skin put you off of having it tightened. A little extra work to find a suitable procedure is all that's required to regain the beautiful skin you desire.