If you’ve been craving a color change for this upcoming winter, you can count on the creative curlies of Instagram to point you in the direction of the latest in hair color trends. Whether you’re in the mood for muted pastel colors, a classically dark look, or an unexpectedly bright pop of color, you’ll find inspiration from natural hair influencers and expert stylists.
In addition to deep browns and blacks, vivid auburn and fiery reds are making a come-back along with combos like cherry blonde, caramels, baylage, and mahogany—meaning the possibilities are endless if you’re feeling inventive. And we’re here to help you navigate through some options!
Ahead are 15 winter hair colors for curls. We’d love to help you decide on your new look for the new year.
1. Muted Copper
Image Source: @hairbyreema
The smooth, effortless, muted copper hair color trend we all know and love is set to carry over into the winter months. It’s bright enough to draw attention, yet neutral enough to look stunning on anyone.
2. Warm Highlights
Image Source:@hairbylaquitaburnett
Not ready to part with the summer-time blonde look? If your hair is still blonde from earlier in the year, there’s no need to cover it up with a darker color. Try letting it grow out for a different look or adding warm highlights.
3. Soft Auburn Brown
Image Source: @morrocanoilpro
Stylist and salon owner Kyle Huntsberry created a glossy, soft, auburn look that’s perfect for the fall and winter.
4. Rich Brown
Image Source:@lynn_styles
Brown tones look great on natural hair, and this look from Lynn was a subtle but game-changing hue from the client’s naturally black tresses.
5. Honey Brown
Image Source:@curly.colorist
Curly colorist Analis created a stunning color combo with this rich honey-brown shade.
6. Sabrina Carpenter Blonde
Image Source:@leysahairandmakeup
We love a dramatic effect that intensifies the look of both colors, and the hues of dark roots and blonde at the root of this style are fantastic.
7. Caramel
Image Source: @wellhairusa
Warm caramel is in this season, and we love it every minute. What better way to celebrate the holidays than with a dollop of brown?
8. Ginger
Image Source:@curlsidoadore
For curlies who prefer less dramatic colors, get into these different shades of ginger. Edwina’s multi-toned, brown curls look as if they could be completely natural.
9. Burgundy
Image Source:@curlssebeauty
Dubbed “deep burgundy” by the stylist, this color takes full advantage of the red color trend.
10. Rose Champagne
Image Source: @curlyhairbyagmajcher
Dusty, faded looking pastel colors always look so effortlessly cool. These champagne curls add a dreamy bit of color, just enough to make a statement.
11. Coral
Image Source:@curlfactor
L.A. stylist Christin Brown created a bold color combo that gives us serious sunset vibes. Orange and pink never looked so good together.
12. Jet Black
Image Source: @manifestinghair
Deep and dark shades are effortlessly cool. These defined and bold curls have a rich hue that is enough to make a statement.
13. Merlot
Image Source: @lynn_styles
If you blink, you just might miss the hues of deep red, brown, and copper in these curls.
14. Butter Cake Blonde
Image Source: @thesavytouch
Bleach blonde in the summer and darker blonde for the colder months! These hues are almost a perfect match for the new year.
15. Cowboy Copper
Image Source: @shynessi.hair
Copper is popular among curlies this season, and Hortencia’s look proves why. The different tones of warm colors give her look a dimensional feeling that we love.
What recent hair color trends have you been keeping on your radar? Any plans to color your curls before the end of the year? Let us know all the details in the comments.
In the world of natural hair, some foundational tools and products can elevate your hair care routine. Satin scarves and bonnets are tried and tested haircare essentials that always stay in style. We’ve seen many brands put their own spin on these classic haircare tools, whether it’s a new design or high-end fabric, to improve the texture and longevity.
Satin scarves and bonnets can also be called “hair wraps” because they act as the first line of defense against environmental stressors. They can be worn across all hair textures and have different uses based on your hair goals. Since we’re in the winter season, when most naturalistas straighten, blow out, or have a silk press, these tools will help you maintain your tresses.
If you haven’t used one of these as part of your hair regimen, we’ll explain their benefits, how they’re used, and where to find them online.
Satin Scarves
These accessories have made a big comeback over the past few years, with many influencers and celebrities rocking them as tops, over baseball caps, tied to a bag, and around the neck. If you’ve got curly, coily, or wavy hair, then the satin scarf will be best for improving your hair regimen. Satin or silk hair scarves come in various lengths, widths, and patterns and can be found everywhere, from high-end fashion designers to Amazon.
The Benefits of Using Satin Scarves
Satin scarves have multiple benefits for natural hair, whether you’re using them to sleep, protect your hair against the weather, or need to wrap up your braids at night. Most curlies, coilies, and wavies use satin scarves to help reduce friction, frizz, and breakage with their hair. Using a satin scarf while you sleep can protect your hair from the cotton fibers of your pillow, which can create the dreaded bedhead. You may see satin scarves used interchangeably with silk scarves, but they are two different styles of fabrics that will ultimately yield the same results. If you plan to use it to improve your hair texture overnight, you can use your favorite hair oil to nourish your hair.
How to Use a Satin Scarf Across All Textures
Using a satin scarf is very easy, and there are many different ways to incorporate it into your hair regimen, whether sleeping or rocking it outside while you run errands. Check out how these ladies use a satin scarf across different hair textures.
Wavy Hair
Curly Hair
Coily Hair
Protective Styles
Where to Buy Satin Scarves
There are tons of amazing brands that feature satin scarves in a variety of styles, patterns, and colors. Prices can vary between retailers, but affordable options exist for every budget.
Bonnets
Hair bonnets have made a big comeback in the past few years, with many brands creating new, functional designs that naturalistas wear in public. Yes, in public, on airplanes, on buses, and everything in between because the hair bonnet is a point of self-expression for Black women. It’s not a trend or a fashion accessory; it’s a practical and tangible solution to help us take care of our hair. As the natural hair movement grows, more women with textured hair become bold and comfortable, revealing how they care for their tresses in public.
The Benefits of Using Hair Bonnets
Like satin scarves, hair bonnets help prevent frizz and breakage and maintain healthy curls, coils, and waves. Hair bonnets are often used when people get relaxers, blow outs, or wear protective styles because it helps to protect from sweat and water. Sweat, water, and even excess oil can be a recipe for ruining your hair which is why a hair bonnet often has a thick band around the top that prevents moisture from forming at your edges.
How to Use a Hair Bonnet Across All Textures
Hair bonnets are very easy to use because they slip on and over your curls, coils, and waves without any fuss. However, if you have longer hair then there are ways to wrap and position your tresses so they don’t lose volume overnight.
Wavy Hair:
Curly Hair:
Coily Hair:
Where You Can Buy Hair Bonnets
There are tons of amazing brands that feature hair bonnets in different styles, patterns, fabrics, and accessories. Check out our recommendations below!
It’s hard to say in black and white terms whether a blowout is bad for curly hair or not, because every head of hair is different. Although there is always a risk with heat, many will tell you they have never had an issue with doing a blowout on their curls.
Naturally, your curly hair is very sensitive to manipulation, permanent color, chemicals, harsh tools, and heat, even more so than straight hair. Although using a blow dryer to stretch your curls is less direct heat than a straight iron, it can still be a cause of concern for curlies who have a concern about losing their natural curl pattern.
Many naturals manage to keep their curls healthy when having their hair blown out, and this comes down to using the correct heat protectant and blowout technique. We’re breaking down all the ins and outs of blowouts for curly hair.
What kind of style will a blowout give me?
Image Source: @naturallyhaleyxo
When your curls are stretched with the heat of a blow dryer and brushed out with a comb attachment, your end result is the big, textured, semi-straight look reminiscent of some of our favorites like Diana Ross, Solange Knowles, and Zendaya Coleman. Another reason so many curlies use this style is to see how long their hair has grown without having to straighten it, or to give themselves a break from styling their curls.
Basically, a blowout is the in-between step to straightening natural hair. Usually, a good stylist will blowout the hair before using a flat iron straightener. You can, however, stop at this stage and avoid the straightener to create effortless, heatless styles like a Bantu knot out or rod style.
Image Source: @curlsbyperla
Blowouts stretch the curls out, making them straighter, and during this process, the blow dryer breaks down the strands’ temporary bonds. Your hair is at its most flexible state while it is wet, which means your hair will be weaker when soaking wet. Because of this, you may want to blow dry, damp hair instead of soaking wet hair to avoid as much damage as possible.
Can the damage be reversed?
No, but there is an alternative for those who are scared of using heat for this look. Thanks to natural hair’s versatility, you can actually create a heatless blowout with tools like Curlformers, flexi-rods, perm rods, or heatless curling sets. Set them on wet hair until dry to get the look, then simply comb or brush them out. This results in a look similar to — but healthier than — a blowout.
Who should get a blowout?
I would recommend heatless blowouts for those currently transitioning to natural hair, as you don’t want to risk more heat damage. For those who go ahead with the blow-out technique, keep the style for a week and then cleanse and deep condition on wash day. To do a blow out the right way, make sure you are using the right tools!
Image Source: @jrc_theslp
There are fantastic tools on the market to help create blowouts for curly hair without excessive heat damage. The REVAIR has been popular because it works with all textures and helps to dry the hair faster, minimizing damage and frizz! You should also give your hair a break; don’t repeat blowouts every week, as you will ultimately face dryness and heat damage.
Otherwise, when done safely, you can try out this style around once a month minimum to keep your curls healthy. Between blowouts, use a moisturizing and heat protectant for extra assistance.
Do-it-yourself
Image Source: @glaminista08
If you choose to do your blowout yourself at home, here are some products I would recommend you use for the process:
- Shampoo: DevaCurl Buildup Buster
- Deep conditioner – Mizani Moisture Fusion Intense Moisturizing Mask
- Heat protectant – CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray
- Finishing serum – Doux Drops Bonding Polish
- Tools: YAMAN YA-Man Blow Dryer with Scalp Massager for Hair Growth
Blowouts aren’t bad for curly hair if carried out correctly and safely. If you aren’t confident in doing so, always seek out a stylist to create this style, and be sure to commit to healthy aftercare, as your curls will need it! Blowouts for curly hair are fun and another reason why curly and natural hair is magical.
If you’re looking to learn more about how to improve your healthy hair regimen, read Your Hair Isn’t “Heat Trained,” That’s Actually Heat Damage
OUR EDITORS INDEPENDENTLY SELECT ALL PRODUCTS FEATURED ON NATURALLYCURLY. HOWEVER, WE MAY EARN AN AFFILIATE COMMISSION WHEN YOU BUY SOMETHING THROUGH OUR RETAIL LINKS.
Over time, product buildup, oil, dead skin, and pollution can clog your hair follicles and throw your scalp out of balance. These factors can lead to dryness, itching, dandruff, or thinning hair. That’s where a good scalp treatment comes in. It works to deeply clean and exfoliate, clearing away all the gunk and boosting circulation to nourish your hair follicles.
The result? Stronger, healthier hair growth. Plus, scalp treatments can help control oiliness, calm irritation, and make your other hair products work even better. Not to mention, winter can be harsh on your scalp, causing dryness and irritation. Scalp treatments, such as nourishing oils and soothing masks, help restore moisture and keep your scalp healthy.
Whether your scalp is dry, oily, somewhere in between, or simply want to give it some extra TLC, adding a scalp treatment to your routine helps create the perfect environment for your hair to thrive, leaving it shinier, softer, and full of life. That said, the below will keep your scalp nourished all winter.
The holidays are right around the corner. With only two weeks left in the season, there is plenty of time to start planning and prepping to create holiday hairstyles that your natural hair will love. Get creative and inventive this season; tons of accessories and products help you achieve stunning updos, slick buns, and more. With several holiday parties in your near future I’m sure one question on your mind is how will you wear your hair? Well, don’t fret!
We’ve got you covered with 15 Holiday hairstyles for natural hair that will turn heads!
1. Flexi Rods
Image Source: @modelesque_nic
A cute flexi rod set is a hairstyle that you can rock for any occasion. You can start with stretched hair or create this style with wet hair.
2. Twist Out
Image Source: @curliekaye
You can never go wrong with a trusty twist-out! Twist your hair, let it dry (the most important step), and then rock your curls!
3. Boho Kinky Twists
Image Source: @nellyshairspace
Kinky twists have been around for a long time! They are a very cute protective style that you can rock for any occasion.
4. Halo Braid
Image Source: @bridesbyaina.m
You can never go wrong with a sleek halo braid. This is a pretty protective style that you can dress up or down. You can also add some hair jewelry to give your hair some flair!
5. Natural Updo With a Bang
Image Source: @styledbyjustin
An updo is always a good option when it comes to a hairstyle for the holidays. Create this cute high bun with a side bang.
6. Passion Twists
Image Source: @bam_hair_
This protective style has swept the world of social media like hotcakes! Everyone is trying this style, and you should too! It’s a great style for any event!
7. Perm Rod Set
Image Source: @itsashleystarr
Perm rod sets have been around since the beginning of time. A good perm rod set will have you feeling on top of the world. Remember to make sure that your hair is fully dry before removing your perm rods. This will ensure that your curls pop!
8. Flat Twist and Curl
Image Source: @goldynaps
If you know how to flat twist, try out this style for your holiday party. Flat twists give you hair a ton of definition. The curls at the end help to add even more volume to your hair.
9. Flat twist Rod Set
Image Source: @therachelhodge
If you love trying new hairstyles, this is for you. This flat twist roller set will make everyone remember your beautiful hairstyle during the holidays.
10. Wand Curls
Image Source: @afroliciouswomen
Get body, volume, and gorgeous wand curls with this stunning holiday look.
11. Frohawk
Image Source: @travelingwithjessica
Pin your afro into a mohawk to create an elegant mohawk updo. This is a very cute style that will turn heads at your next holiday party.
12. Goddess Braids
Image Source: @aredebeatriz
Now, I know you’ve heard of goddess locs, but check out these super cute triangle-part goddess braids. Opt for a protective style this season that will last you through from Thanksgiving through the New year!
13. Braidout
Image Source: @britneydelk
You can never go wrong with a trusty braid out. It’s a great timeless hairstyle that can be worn for any occasion.
14. Bantu Knots
Image Source: @melissa_nerovique
Make a bold statement with a Bantu knot set this holiday season. You can keep the knots in or take them out to create a Bantu knot.
15. Faux Locs Bob
Image Source: @beauty_depot
Goddess locs have become a very popular protective hairstyle. This bob will be sure to have your family talking at the dinner table. If are thinking of locing your hair in the future and not ready to commit, try out faux locs.
If you’re still on the hunt for a last-minute gift, check out The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Naturalistas or Must-Have Holiday Gifts for the Makeup Maven. What style will you try this holiday season? Let us know in the comments!
The downsides to frequent shaving are that it can cause irritation, bumps, cuts, ingrown hairs, razor burn, and nicks. This can be frustrating for anyone who wants to keep everything clean and tidy. Luckily, safety razors are designed to address these issues, making shaving a much smoother, safer, and more comfortable experience—especially for those with sensitive skin.
“Safety razors work best for sensitive skin,” William Rodgriguez, a master barber at Public Image NYC tells Beautycon. “Using a safety razor to shave is the best way to prevent unsightly razor bumps, ingrown hairs, nicks and irritation.”
What’s the difference between a safety razor and a regular razor?
There is a significant difference between a safety razor and a regular razor. The difference lies with the razor head. “Safety razors use a single or double edge razor that is encased in a head that only exposes the edge of the razor,” Dr. Hartman says. “A regular razor is often known as a cartridge razor, which has a series of razor edges stacked on top of one another.”
Best practice with safety razors
When using a safety razor, it’s important to note that the head of the razor doesn’t pivot like regular razors. Instead, it’s recommended to use the safety razor in the direction of hair growth to achieve the best angles. First, it’s important to prepare the skin on your face by steaming in the shower or using a hot towel. Second, apply a pre-shave oil, shaving gel, or cream, and try to shave with and across the grain of the hair growth to avoid irritation. After shaving, rinse your face with cold water and apply an after-shave balm for a refreshing finish.
The importance of using one blade is also emphasized by the experts. “Stick to one blade if you have sensitive skin,” Dr. Corey L. Hartman, Founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, AL, says. “A fresh, new blade will easily remove hair from the face with the least amount of contact with your skin possible, which will reduce the risk of skin irritation, redness and itching.”
Which safety razors should I try?
We’re almost halfway into the holiday season and there’s still time to shop for the beauty mavens in your life. Skincare has been a crucial aspect of wellness and self-care and thanks to social media, it’s becoming even easier to understand how to create your own skincare routine. The holiday season is perfect for trying out new brands, formulas, and getting to test out what works best for your skin type without the full price commitment.
We’ve compiled must-have skincare sets whether you’re treating yourself or someone special.
What skincare sets are you adding to Santa’s list this season? If you’re still feeling festive, you can shop these The Best Beauty Advent Calendars to Ring in The Holiday.
Creating smooth finger coils is easy to do and can be achieved on a variety of lengths. The style can last about a week or longer and can be transitioned into different styles by separating the coils, or putting them into a French roll or other pinup styles when the coils get older.
Think of finger coils as a more defined coil you create using your fingers and a styling product, such as The Doux CRAZYSEXYCURL Honey Setting Foam, to give your style medium hold without the crunchy, dry feeling. We’re going to break down how to get the smoothest finger coils from start to finish.
How to Install Finger Coils
Step 1. Start with cleansed hair
Start finger coils on freshly shampooed and conditioned hair. A good conditioner that holds moisture for finger coiling is Design Essentials Almond Butter Express Instant Moisturizing Conditioner. This conditioner gives amazing slip and helps the hair feel soft. Sit with this conditioner in your hair for 20 minutes under a hooded dryer or steamer.
Step 2. Detangle
Image Source: @stephany13r
Before I start the coils, I always comb the hair out completely to make sure the product I am using is evenly distributed and the hair is completely detangled. Ensure the ends of your hair are completely detangled so that your coils are not frizzy and your ends look smooth when the coil locks in place.
Step 3. – Section
I find it easier to start at the nape of the head. Create a one-inch diagonal part and section out a square the same length as the tip of your finger. Apply a good amount of product starting from the roots to the ends of your hair. Start creating the coil from the root by simply twirling your hair around your pointer finger until you reach down to the ends. Follow this technique until the whole head is completely coiled.
Image Source: @goldenrose_nay
In order to prevent your roots from puffing up when you are doing finger coils, you have to use small sections, especially if your hair is dense. You want to make sure your hair is wet and completely saturated with a product such as Creme Of Nature, Curl Cream for Curly Hair. You can also prevent your roots from puffing up by using your finger to smooth your roots down before you start coiling your hair.
Step 4. – Dry and set
Image Source: @curlsbyjen
Sit under a hooded dryer to let the coils dry and set for about one hour.
How to keep your coils smooth overnight
Finger coils can be maintained by wearing a satin bonnet at night. I recommend sealing the hair with a carrier oil such as jojoba oil or sweet almond oil after the coils have dried. Sealing the coils with a carrier oil adds shine and moisturizes the hair and scalp. You can prevent your coils from feeling dry by twirling a little bit of Aunt Jackie’s Flaxseed Recipes Seal It Up, Hydrating Sealing Butter three days after you create your coils. This product is great for hydrating coils before bed and helps seal in moisture that will last all week.
How to keep your coils moisturized
Applying a hydrator at night will also help redefine any coils that need to be refreshed or have lost shape. Use this time to feel for any coils that are puffy or dry and quickly create a new coil. Using this technique, you can hydrate your coils one to two times during the week.
How to pull out coils
A benefit of finger coils is the transformation from more structured coils to a voluminous hairstyle that can get bigger as the coils get older. You control how much volume your hair has based on how much you separate each coil.
Image Source: @fabentekle
When pulling out coils, you can use Mizani 25 Miracle Nourishing Hair Oil, which helps give your hair a high shine and also moisturizes coils. When opening up coils or twist outs, always use a product with a butter consistency because it will prevent dryness and keep the ends from tangling. I shy away from using gel to finger coil, because I find most gels flake off the hair once the coils are separated. If you prefer gel and need recommendations, check out Best of The Best Gels 2024.
Are you ready to achieve your smoothest finger coils? How do you prevent your finger coils from puffing up at the roots? Share your secrets in the comments section.
OUR EDITORS INDEPENDENTLY SELECT ALL PRODUCTS FEATURED ON NATURALLYCURLY. HOWEVER, WE MAY EARN AN AFFILIATE COMMISSION WHEN YOU BUY SOMETHING THROUGH OUR RETAIL LINKS.
Every year, the holidays come at us fast. That said, for the last minute shoppers or those who opted out of Black Friday this year, don’t fret. There is still plenty of time to fill those stockings. If you have a curly girl in your life and are still trying to find a gift she’ll be sure to love and use, you can never go wrong with restocking her favorite, high quality products.
In addition to the coveted and novelty wish list items, there are a few products that will always be appreciated year round. Be them a product junky or minimalist, everyone has their go-to products or items they’ve been eyeing. Take it from a veteran curly-girl who has done her fair share of product testing trials and style attempts: this is what we want.
A re-up in needed styling tools such as flexi rods, detangling brushes, or satin anything are practical and thoughtful additions to top off your loved ones’ stockings, especially if they pertain to styles your curlfriend wears routinely. When it comes to products, a mix of their repeat stylers, conditioners, or occasional treatment items are definite safe options.
With that, below, you’re sure to find something for the beloved curly girls in your life this holiday season.
For the wash n go warriors
When it comes to a wash n go, a botanical gel is going to do it every time. Made of plant derived ingredients such as flaxseed, marshmallow root, or aloe vera, these gels are less harsh than their counterparts, support hydration, have incredible hold, and promote long term hair health over time.
For the twist-out girls
If your curly girl is more of a twist out or soft hold style wearer, a quality mousse is just what she needs. Mousse and foam stylers provide moderate curl definition, volume, and are cast free. They are my go-to product for perm rods, flexi rods, and any kind of big curl rollers. A mousse sets the hair for voluminous, soft, and defined curl styles.
For the style switchers
For the girls who like to switch their styles up and take curl TLC seriously, a restorative product may be the option of choice. These products are not designed for consistent use, but rather for maintenance or single-issue areas such as bond repairs and scalp scrubs. With that in mind, these treatment based products are ideal inclusions in your natural girl’s arsenal because she may not always consider them in her routine shopping. From refreshing scalp scrubs that target product build up and exfoliation to repair treatments for when you’ve heat styled one too many times, the below list offer a few options for nourishing treatments.
For the one who already has everything
Can’t decide which product to choose from or want to gift a brand they’ve been meaning to try? Mini sets, including anything from leave-ins to heat protectants and stylers, have you covered. Offering multiple products to choose from, these mini sets provide your loved one the opportunity to test out a new method or add everything they may need to a travel bag.
Inflammation does more than just cause redness, pain, and hyperpigmentation—it may be (quietly) aging your skin. Unlike normal inflammation, “mild inflammation lingers without fully going away and may not cause obvious symptoms,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tiffany Libby tells Beautycon. “Think of it like a garden: if you don’t regularly weed (calm the inflammation), they can overtake the beautiful flowers (healthy cells), making it harder for the garden to thrive.”
Below, Dr. Libby explains how mild inflammation ages your skin—and how to stop it.
What is inflammaging?
“Inflammaging is a term that combines ‘inflammation’ and ‘aging’,” Dr. Libby says. The term, introduced by Prof. Claudio Franceschi in 2000, recognized immune changes in response to lifelong stress. According to Libby, “it describes how chronic, low-grade inflammation in our bodies contributes to aging and age-related diseases,” like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.
How does mild inflammation differ from normal inflammation?
Inherently, inflammation isn’t bad. “Normal inflammation is like your body’s alarm system responding to an injury or infection,” Libby says, as a temporary response to help your skin heal. “While normal inflammation is your body’s way of protecting itself, mild inflammation can slowly wear your body down over time, contributing to aging and various health issues.”
How do you know if you have mild inflammation?
Unlike normal inflammation—which is often associated with redness, heat, swelling, or pain—the symptoms of mild inflammation are more hidden.
“One of the earliest signs of inflammaging is dryness of the skin, which can mean that the skin moisture barrier is in need of more hydrating and supportive ingredients,” she says. Caused by environmental stressors like UV radiation and pollution, as well as internal stressors like stress or lack of sleep, “we can assume that the majority of us are exposed to chronic levels of low inflammation impacting our skin.”
What is the relationship between aging and inflammation?
While the body’s immune system becomes increasingly inflamed as people age, inflammation induces oxidative stress and other effects which are thought to promote aging, according to the NIH. “Chronic inflammation can generate free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage cells and collagen and elastin,” she says.
Collagen and elastin are the primary actors responsible for your skin’s aging process.
“[If] these critical components get damaged, signs of photoaging like fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity can become more pronounced,” she says. And, while the skin is meant to serve as a protective barrier from our environment, a damaged barrier can cause inflammation, which in turn, makes our skin more susceptible to aging.
Does skin tone impact how inflammation appears?
“People with darker skin tones often associate inflammation with hyperpigmentation, not aging,” she says. After inflammation occurs in the skin (like from a breakout), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) or hypopigmentation (light spots) may appear.
However, redness, sun exposure, and acne are not the sole cause of pigmentation. “Chronic low levels of inflammation can contribute to dark spots on the skin and uneven skin texture and tone [as well].”
What type of skincare routine can help decrease the threat of inflammation?
External support like skincare that specifically targets the root causes of inflammation to help treat inflammaging. “Try a gentle cleanser to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils which can lead to irritation and inflammation,” Libby says. “Look for moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to keep skin hydrated, which can help maintain the skin barrier and reduce irritation.”
Antioxidants, like naringenin, have anti-inflammatory properties and decrease cellular damage and damage to collagen and elastin. She recommends DEINDE, one of the first skincare brands to target inflammaging, with products like the Skin-Strengthening Serum and Purifying Whipped Cleanser to combat and prevent mild inflammation.
If you use any product, however, sunscreen should be your top pick. “Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, regardless of the season, is vital because UV rays can exacerbate inflammation and accelerate aging.”