Cosmetology of Black Skin
January 2023
in “
Annales de dermatologie et de vénéréologie, FMC
”
TLDR Black skin requires specific cosmetic practices, which can sometimes cause skin issues due to product misuse, and there's a need for better regulations in sub-Saharan Africa.
The document "Cosmétologie de la peau noire" discusses the specifics of cosmetology for black skin. Cosmetology is defined as the study of body care and its effects on the organism. The paper highlights that there are structural and functional differences between black and white skin, particularly in melanin pigmentation and the curly nature of African hair. These differences lead to specific cosmetic practices for black skin, some of which can result in dermatological complications due to misuse of cosmetic products. The paper also mentions the concept of "ethnocosmetics," which refers to cosmetic production for populations with black and mixed-race skin and curly, frizzy, and straightened hair. The document also discusses the history of cosmetic use in black populations, the symbolism of skin in these populations, the notion of sensitive skin, and the complications of certain cosmetic practices. The paper concludes by noting the lack of clear guidelines and a legislative framework for cosmetovigilance in sub-Saharan Africa.
