5 Skincare Ingredients You Should Avoid If You Have Melanin-Rich Skin.

Melanin-rich skin is beautiful, powerful—and uniquely sensitive. Yet many mainstream skincare products still contain ingredients that can cause more harm than good. If you’ve ever wondered why your dark spots linger longer or why your glow disappears after trying a new serum, this one’s for you.

1. Hydroquinone (High Concentrations)

   
   

   Often prescribed for hyperpigmentation, but too much can lead to ochronosis—a bluish-black discoloration that’s incredibly hard to treat. It’s banned in many countries for a reason.

   

2. Fragrance (Synthetic or Overloaded)

   
   

   Melanin-rich skin is more prone to inflammation and irritation. Heavily fragranced products can trigger sensitivities, leading to pigmentation issues.

3. Alcohol (SD Alcohol, Denatured Alcohol)

   
   

   These strip the skin of natural oils, disrupting your barrier and setting you up for dullness, dryness, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

4. Harsh Physical Exfoliants

   
   

   Think apricot scrubs or walnut shells. They can cause microtears and inflammation—two things that melanin-rich skin doesn’t forget easily.

   

5. Benzoyl Peroxide (in high % or prolonged use)

   
   

   It can be too aggressive, leading to post-acne marks that overstay their welcome. There are gentler, effective options like azelaic acid.

Your melanin is magic—but it needs the right kind of care. Audit your products this week. Ditch the culprits and choose ingredients that love your skin back. If you’re unsure, Schedule a virtual consultation —we’ll figure it out together.

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