Melanated skin is beautiful in its wide range of hues and richness. But what is it exactly that makes our skin extra-special, and what should we look for in our products to support our skin’s beauty, health, and wellness? Let’s get into it!
Melanin is a skin pigment created by melanocytes in the top layer of the skin. While everyone has the same amount of melanocytes, each can create more or less melanin, depending on our genes. The more melanin we have, the darker our skin tone.
The amount of
melanin we have
drives our skin tone.
Melanated skin has higher concentrations of melanin and can vary across a broad range of skin tones and ethnicities, from African American, to Latin or South American, South and Southeast Asian, Pacific Islander and Native, and Middle Eastern and North African. Â
Fun fact! Data from the U.S. Census Bureau in 2015 stated that for the first time ever, the majority of children 0-5 years were born to at least one parent of color. And that was it. That was the moment the scales tipped toward the new majority—melanated children! That’s why we believe it’s time we created products for that new majority—it’s time for PROUDLY.
Our littlest loves have beautiful, rich, melanated skin that is both strong and amazing. And sometimes, what makes our skin extra-special is also the very thing that makes it more sensitive.
Melanin strengthens our skin and protects us from the environment including pollutants, free radicals, and harmful UV rays (but we still need sunscreen!).
Melanated skin loses water faster and can feel drier because our skin tends to have fewer ceramides—these help to strengthen our skin's protective barrier.
Melanated skin may have a slightly lower pH on parts of the body according to early research. This can help repel microorganisms that may disturb our skin’s natural state.
Moisture-Rich &
pH-Balanced Formulas
Products should have ingredients that provide moisture—not ingredients that strip skin of its natural moisture. Products should also be pH-balanced to melanated skin (meaning on the slightly lower-end of neutral) to avoid disrupting the skin’s barrier and avoid potential triggers for irritation or severe dryness.
Cleaner &
Efficacious Formulas
Use products with cleaner ingredients—No Sketchy Stuff!™ The term “clean” can sound confusing. That’s why we’re all about “cleaner”. It’s important to use certain ingredients, at thoughtful concentrations to avoid potential skin irritation. Basically, products need to work, but should also be gentle on skin.
Non-Harsh,
Plant-Based Ingredients
Products that prioritize plant-based ingredients—like jojoba oil and aloe—have both hydrating and antimicrobial properties. Keep in mind, some plants can be irritating to your littlest loves’ skin, so it is important to be thoughtful about which plant-based ingredients you use and at what amounts they are in each product.Â
