How Your Face Will Age Based On Race, According To Science

In the past several years, the beauty world’s attention has turned to multicultural skincare and more specifically, to the importance of a beauty regimen tailored toward individual ethnic skin types. Although we certainly cannot generalize everyone’s skin tone, texture or individual skincare needs based on their cultural heritage, DNA and genetics play a fairly key role in determining the future of our epidermis. As we prepare to step into 2020, all of us can expect to “face” a new decade of aging! Although this might be a terrifying thought, it’s better than the alternative. Before we all kickstart a season of holiday revelry, late nights and too much sugar, be sure to check out these scientifically backed skincare tips for your particular cultural group.

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Fair skin

While a porcelain visage certainly looks stunning (particularly if you add rosy blush and a flattering pink lipstick), fair to medium complexions tend to be a target for visible signs of sun damage. For those of European/Caucasian blood or for anyone with a lighter skin tone, a daily skincare regimen should focus on protection from these harmful rays.

SEE ALSO: Everything you need to know about sunblock but were too shy to ask.

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How to care for your fair skin

According to Toronto-based naturopath Dr. Erica Grenci, ND, a zinc-based mineral sunscreen is key. “Those with fair skin, they definitely burn easier in the sun. [Sunscreen] is really important in the summer months, and maybe all year round, depending on the level of exposure outdoors.”

RELATED: 5 reasons why natural beauty products are totally worth the hype.

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Medium and olive skin

In a 2016 study called “Aging Differences in Ethnic Skin”, The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology reports signs of aging for all types include “dark spots, loss of elasticity, loss of volume, and rhytides.” However, this study also states the role of melanin as a “major determinant of colour in the skin, and the concentration of epidermal melanin in melanosomes is double in darker skin types compared to lightly pigmented skin.” Medium and olive skin tones (which are often found in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, South American/Latin, South Asian and Asian skin tones) tend to contain more melanin than fair skin.

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How to care for olive skin

That being said, medium and olive skin tones (which contain green-yellow undertones) can suffer from skin issues with discolouration and dark under eye circles. As time passes, these skincare woes can become more prominent. From a subtle hint of concealer to a good night’s sleep, taking care of your medium complexion can ensure that these concerns stay under control.

RELATED: The A to Z Guide: Creams, Serums, and Beauty Practices You Need to Incorporate into Your Beauty Regimen.

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Tan to ebony skin

If you happen to have beautiful darker skin (whether your ethnic heritage happens to be South Asian, South American or Black), consider yourself lucky when it comes to exhibiting sun damage or wrinkles. Darker skin is said to contain higher levels of melanin than fair or medium complexions, which can prevent the common signs of aging. However, The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology reports that this can have an effect on skin appearance and potentially lead to uneven skin tones. What does this mean exactly? “Although the increased melanin provides protection from many harmful effects of UV radiation, including photodamage and skin cancers, it also makes darkly pigmented skin more vulnerable to dyspigmentation.”

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Here’s why darker skin tends to stay youthful in appearance

Dr. Grenci agrees that darker skin holds up well against the effects of aging, and also cites that skin thickness may play a role. “Darker skin tends to show less of these natural, visible signs of aging. Generally, people with darker skin tones don’t worry about wrinkling too much, whereas those with lighter skin tones, it’s something that happens fairly quickly. It’s thinner skin versus thicker skin,” Dr. Grenci says.

RELATED: 10 common skincare mistakes that are aging you.

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Regardless of race — think antioxidants

Regardless of your skin colour, we are more the same than different, and every human body can benefit from a moisture boost. Dr. Grenci recommends sipping on lemon water with freshly squeezed lemon daily, as a glass of H20 boosted with this Vitamin C-rich citrus fruit is packed with antioxidants. “The more antioxidants you have in your diet, the more resilient your skin becomes to sun damage. You can fight free radicals with having a high antioxidant diet,” she says.

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Think inner beauty

Dr. Grenci also cites the importance of taking care of your body internally as a key factor when it comes to having beautiful, youthful skin. When it comes to moisturizing products, she personally uses a cream from her clinic, which is made with calendula. Meanwhile, other forms of self-care, such as exercise and personal fitness, can also help to keep unwanted signs of skin aging under control. Burning those calories and hitting the gym keeps blood pumping throughout your body, and can keep you looking fresh as well as feeling refreshed.

RELATED: These sneaky symptoms prove you're not as healthy as you think.

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Limit caffeine and alcohol

With the holidays coming up, it may be hard to avoid the festive season and the parties that come with this jolly time of year. However, it’s no secret that late nights and early mornings are the worst enemies when it comes to our skin, whether we happen to be fair, tanned or dark-complexioned. Limit those cups of coffee and seasonal cocktails — your skin will certainly appreciate this!

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You are what you eat!

Are you starting your mornings off with sugar and processed ingredients? If so, this will not do your skin any favours, even if genetics happen to be on your side. According to Dr. Grenci, an all-fruit breakfast is a great way to start off your day, as fruits cleanse the lymphatic system and often contain antioxidants.

RELATED: You should eat this 10 foods for healthier, younger looking skin.