How To Maintain Your Skin Color

You have bought an expensive or not-so-expensive skin lightening set, you have also created this fantastic day and night routine for yourself, and now you can see the results: your skin has gotten one or two shades lighter! Bravo!! Really, bravo!!!

Your skin has finally reached your desired complexion, so what next???
This is the part where many of us ladies, especially from this part of the world, miss it.




While I am personally not in support of skin lightening of any kind, I am in support of protecting your skin during the day. 

The sun is powerful than the strongest skin lightener in the world.
So, if you're not careful of what you do and use, you will not only end up with your previous complexion, you may become several shades darker than you were before. 

Find out why...

I know some of us will be like: "I don't go out in the sun". 
This is true if your house/office has no windows, you don't sit close to windows, your car's glasses are tinted 50% or more, or if you live in a cave!

We've all heard that unnecessary sun exposure is harmful and that we should avoid it; especially during the hours of 10 am to 4 pm. But in reality, this does not happen 100% of the time. We have to go out, go to work, attend functions, visit friends, run errands etc. So, whichever one you find yourself, exposure to the sun is unavoidable! 


From http://www.freevectors.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Hot-Sun-Vector.jpg
The sun releases ultraviolet rays A and B, well known as UVA and UVB.

UVB rays are the ones responsible for sunburn. 
Remember that time when you were standing at the bus-stop with no bus in sight, no "pure water seller" was forthcoming and the sun was scorching hot? 
That heat, that burning sensation on your skin was and is courtesy of UVB rays. They are the sun rays that you can feel.

UVA rays, on the other hand, are silent killers because you do not feel them. Yet, they are the rays responsible for sun-aging, skin cancer, wrinkles and weak immune system. They have the ability to penetrate through clear glass into deeper layers of the skin and kill skin cells. 
So it doesn't matter if your car's AC is chilling at "mortuary-standard" temperature. UVA will still penetrate.
*** 
If you lighten or plan to lighten your skin, 
wearing sunscreen MUST be top priority to you! 
Because exposing yourself to the sun is the surest way to get old faster.
***
Scary right? Yeah but there's a solution:
Wear broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. 

This is not only limited to ladies; men are inclusive as well. The sun will burn anyone, male or female, irrespective of skin color or race; no matter how dark or pigmented your skin is. Kindly remind me again who came up with the notion that black skin don't get burnt???

Most people have dark face and fresh body, men especially. The reason is because clothes serve as a means of protection from burning sun rays. Any other part that is seldom covered gets scorched. Ouch! 

In a bid to provide solution to facial sun burns and wrinkles, I have provided, in no particular order, a list of some dual-purpose sunscreens below. 

Don't we all love 2-in-1s?

1. Avon Anew Clinical Skinvincible Broad Spectrum Multi-Shield Lotion SPF 50.
Avon Anew Skinvincible Lotion SPF 50

I know I said it here in my Step 5 that I am yet to find any other sunscreen to replace my Olay Regenerist Regenerating Lotion SPF 15. Well, that's no longer correct because I have. 

I was gradually running out and the store where I got it from took a while before they restocked it. So, I went through Paula's Choice Beautypedia Review for "Best Moisturizers with Sunscreen" and found this. When I found out it was available on Konga.com, I didn't give it a second thought. I just bought it.

I use this on my face and neck every morning after Steps 3 and 4. At night, I stop at either Step 3 or 4 depending on my mood.

2. Olay Regenerist Regenerating Lotion with Sunscreen Broad Spectrun SPF 15.



As soon as my Avon Skinvincible was delivered, Olay Regenerist automatically became my body sunscreen of choice. I use this on my arms and legs. Literally any part of body that clothes did not cover. It is also a moisturizer with sunscreen.
Even though the Avon is SPF 50, for some reasons I can't explain, I love my Olay Regenerist SPF 15 more!
My Sunscreen Duo.
3. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45.



This is one sunscreen I will never forget in a hurry. This was the first sunscreen I bought and fell in love with. The first sunscreen I used up completely, Olay Regenerist being second. 
It is pure sunscreen that lives up to its name, "Ultra Sheer" and "Dry-Touch". 

Unlike many sunscreens that were notorious for being too oily and heavy, I did not find Neutrogena Sunscreen with SPF 45 oily at all. Plus, it didn't leave any annoying white streaks. [I remember my Sebamed SPF 50, ewww!]
The Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch range is available in SPFs 30, 45, 55, 65, 75, 85, 95 and 100. Read online reviews for yourself and you will find out that the SPF 45 is rated best for everyday use.

So, if you're going to the beach during the day, or you're doing a field job, or you just want a sunscreen that will serve the singular purpose of sun protection and nothing else, this is the one to go hunting for.
It's great for use all over the body. I always recommend this for men.

4. Ambi Even & Clear Daily Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30.
Left [pack with product in it].
Right: Actual product



This sunscreen lotion, apart from its job of protecting and moisturizing, also helps with evening skin tone and texture with daily use. That alone makes this great 3 in 1 product such great value for your money! Thanks to its Soy Extract and Vitamin C. 

5. Olay Anti-Wrinkle Sensitive Skin Daily Lotion SPF 15.

If you're allergic to most sunscreens or your skin is currently in a situation where it is sensitive to almost anything, this is the sunscreen of choice. It is very lightweight, oil-free, color-free and fragrance free.
Most sunscreens for sensitive skin are mineral based and usually contain Titanium Dioxide.
Synthetic sunscreens usually contain Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octocrylene etc.


Titanium Dioxide underlined in pink

Last and not the least for this list is:
6. Nivea Pure & Sensitive Sun Lotion SPF 30.

This is another great sun protection lotion for sensitive skin. As with all sunscreen, apply a generous amount. This sun lotion is aloe vera based, free of fragrance, color and preservatives. Even though Nivea said it is fragrance-free, it has this nice smell [which I have no idea how it came to be] that doesn't linger.  It also contains titanium dioxide.
It is great as an all over body lotion. 


Titanium Dioxide underlined in pink
Below is a sunscreen infograph I culled from Paula's choice.


http://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/sun-care/_/infographic-the-sun-is-doing-what-to-my-skin
Some ingredients in skincare products can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight [photo-sensitive].

1. AHAs: Glycolic acid, Malic acid, Lactic Acid etc
2. BHAs: Salicylic acid
3. Hydroquinone
4. Benzoyl Peroxide
5. Citrus oils: Lemon, lime or grapefruit oils
6. Vitamin C. 
Because you may not be able to completely avoid them, the manufacturers of such products always advise wearing broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. 

TIPS: Always look out for the "SunBurn Alert", "Warning", and "Directions" signs written on the pack of the product and read them before use!

Sunburn Alert!
It's always best to read and follow the instructions
of any skincare product.
Finally, in addition to wearing a sunscreen, you can give yourself some added sun protection by wearing wide brim hats [for women] and face caps [for men], that is if you can. 
Read up on more sun protection tips here.

And if you are like me that hate to wear sunscreen, you are NOT alone! 
I have forced myself to wear it everyday so much so, it is now second nature. 
After seeing the sunburns on my face and shoulders fade away completely; even that annoying bra mark is faded, I am convinced that the ultimate key to healthy, glowing skin is to wear sunscreen everyday!

Now that you know what to do to maintain that lovely yellowness, fairness or glowing ebony skin, it's time for you to do some sunscreen shopping! Glowing skin, anyone?

Sincerely from me,

Ifeoma.

Comments

  1. Great post. I really like the Ambi moisturizer. Where do you get it in Nigeria? Is it at Casa Bella?

    Don't Touch The Hair

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You can get the Ambi Moisturizer at any CasaBella store. Your blog is lovely, by the way.
      I love your pre-poo regimen and may be incorporating that. It's about time I got the Organics Cholesterol and Tea Tree Oil. Been eyeing it a long time.

      Delete
    2. Thanks for reading my blog. I checked the Casa Bella at Ikeja City Mall but they didn't have the Ambi moisturizer. :-( I will check another one. Thanks for the info.

      Don't Touch The Hair

      Delete
    3. You can check the one at Shoprite Surulere. I'm sure they should have. If not, you can request for a transfer from another branch that has. They should be able to do that for you.

      Delete
    4. I must invite you both to visit Allure Beauty Store located at Pentagon Plaza, 23 Opebi Rd. Ikeja. I'm hoping you'll find some of your favourites and also discover something new........

      Delete
  2. Lovely write up! Well done! Please where can I get the nivea sun lotion?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You can get the Nivea Pure and Sensitive Sun Lotion at any Casabella store near you. Thanks.

      Delete
  3. I'm not so much of a Sunscreen person. I find it bothersome to wear lotion first and then Sunscreen over it. Isn't there a lotion or cream that has Sunscreen in it already? Any recommendations?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh yes there are, CookieSkin Dermal Repair Brightening Body Lotion SPF20 or Boots Botanics Whitening Moisture Body Lotion SPF30.

      Delete
  4. Pls where can I get the neutrogena dry touch sunscreen in lagos

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Any HealthPlus Pharmacy or Casabella Beauty stores.

      Delete
  5. Good day am jane please I have a sensitive skin and I react to chemical sunscreen, I live in owerri where there are few supermarkets and cosmetic shops I have searched for sunscreen but mainly find mary kay sunscreens which r chemical based and sleek protect me and restore me sunscreen which I believe is also chemical based haven't gone through it though, I use avenno skin relief lotion which is the only lotion I have found a to suit my sensitive skin and am already getting sunburn please how can I get a mineral based sunscreen

    ReplyDelete
  6. Good day am jane please I have a sensitive skin and I react to chemical sunscreen, I live in owerri where there are few supermarkets and cosmetic shops I have searched for sunscreen but mainly find mary kay sunscreens which r chemical based and sleek protect me and restore me sunscreen which I believe is also chemical based haven't gone through it though, I use avenno skin relief lotion which is the only lotion I have found a to suit my sensitive skin and am already getting sunburn please how can I get a mineral based sunscreen

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Jane,
      You can start with the mineral Sunscreen examples I have given. Other brands of good mineral Sunscreen include CookieSkin Dermal Repair Complexion Shield Lotion SPF30 or SPF50. You can also try the Forever Living Products Sunscreen as well or Biodegradable Sunscreen in SPF50. These are all mineral sunscreens.

      If you find them difficult to get in stores close to you, you can search for them online and then order locally. Warm regards to you.

      Delete
    2. Correction: that's Bioderma SPF50 Sunscreen and not Biodegradable. Thank you.

      Delete
  7. You can find both Ambi and Neutrogena SPF 45 to 100 at Allure Beauty Store. Pentagon Plaza. 23 Opebi rd. Ikeja or online at www.allure.com.ng

    ReplyDelete
  8. Good day Ify,
    am vivian i am fair not too fair (not oyibo). please can you help me out for a good cream/lotion that will even tone uniformly but that will not make me become OYIBO WHITE please helpppp as i find it difficult to maintain a cream or soap because i have not achieved any result. i use any soap and i used maya lotion mixed with ultra serum no result now using nivea natural in fact just a week am getting dark already i don't know which i will go for next plssssssssssssss help me out is URGENT. thank you and God bless. please reply asap.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Vivian,

      It's difficult to recommend skincare products for someone I have not seen or had the opportunity to asks questions extensively. This is because recommending products for "skin lightening" depend greatly on your lightening history and one must see you in person to know the exact shade that you currently are and what you hope to achieve.

      In that case, I will advise that you visit any Casabella Store closest to you (you can find them at Shoprite Malls) and speak to the beauty advisors present. That way, they can properly assess and know the best regimen to recommend to you.
      I hope that helps. Regards.

      Delete
  9. Good day Ify,
    am vivian i am fair not too fair (not oyibo). please can you help me out for a good cream/lotion that will even tone uniformly but that will not make me become OYIBO WHITE please helpppp as i find it difficult to maintain a cream or soap because i have not achieved any result. i use any soap and i used maya lotion mixed with ultra serum no result now using nivea natural in fact just a week am getting dark already i don't know which i will go for next plssssssssssssss help me out is URGENT. thank you and God bless. please reply asap.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Great write up. Hope the cookie skin dermal repair does not make one lighter

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No, it doesn't. If you read my post on the product, you'll see dat I mentioned it there.

      Delete
  11. Please where can I get any of these products in Kaduna state... Do u have any store here in Kaduna?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We don't have a store in Kaduna butewe have in Kano. If you're certain you have exhausted all your options in searching big supermarkets in Kaduna, then you can check the shoprite in Kano. Thanks.

      Delete
  12. Please where can I get any of these products in Kaduna state... Do u have any store here in Kaduna?

    ReplyDelete
  13. Ify dear, pls I need an all round fair even skin tone. What product can I use? Thank u.

    ReplyDelete
  14. How to Lighten your Dark Private Area Skin

    With regards to our pubic vicinity, nicely, it’s non-public and private and can be embarrassing to talk approximately, however allows be honest. We all have one down there, so we might as properly share our knowledge and help out each different to lighten dark private area.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Hi, I just bought a sunscreen product of spf 50. It gets my face oily and shiny like I used Vaseline or vegetable oil. Is it advisable to apply powder to my face to reduce the oily look? I want to finish using it before I try another product. Thanks.

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  16. Ify I reside in Abuja. Please where can I get Olay regenerist?

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  17. I want to purchase the Neutrogena sunscreen. How do i apply it? Before i rub cream or after i do. And can i wear makeup over it.

    ReplyDelete
  18. One version of history has it that the canny Swiss came up with the idea of making fondue to use up leftover cheese chunks and dry bread to feed hungry families in winter. No matter where it began, fondue is a fun, convivial meal with everyone around the table preparing individual skewers of food.

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  19. I am a chocolate person with a dry skin, please what kind of cream and soap can I buy?

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  20. Thanks so much beautiful Ifeoma,Please can i use AMBI sun protection lotion for both face and body?Please reply

    ReplyDelete
  21. Lol , first of all thanks for the info , secondly, l love the way you write lol ,such a nice sense of humor.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Pls ma I want to want to go for fair and white but I don't like the hydroquinone content in it,pls can kindly prescribe a gud listening lotion for me ,thank you

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  23. So sunscreen is different from normal cream? U still need to get a cream.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Hello ifeoma I stay in Abuja please where can I get the Nivea pure.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Can I mix the creams together

    ReplyDelete

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