Black Skin

October 31, 2023

As we approach the final day of black history month, I thought i'd share a quick blog post in relation to black skin,

Black skin is physiologically different to white skin. Therefore, has differing needs, concerns and expectations. The differences are important to understand to look after your skin properly and select the best treatments. The theme of Black History Month 2023 is “Saluting our Sisters.” It is an opportunity to honour the achievements and amplify the voices of black women. 


Skin Differences

It is important to understand that skin is not “just skin.” Ignoring differences between black and white skin is problematic as it contributes to the lack of focus on black skin in the beauty industry. This creates an environment where black consumers leave their skin unprotected, use products incorrectly, and even damage their skin. 


(1) Melanin

Melanocyte cells live in the bottom layer of the epidermis in all skin. These cells contain melanosomes granules, inside of which is the melanin pigment. The amount of and sizes of melanocytes and melanosomes determines the colour of the skin. At the deepest layers of the skin, the melanosomes granules appear transparent. It is only as they get closer to the surface of the skin that they take on colour. Black skin is thought to have as much as twice the melanin found in white skin, with a higher ratio of eumelanin to pheomelanin. Eumelanin has a dark brown pigment, which is thought to protect against UV damage. White skin contains higher levels of pheomelanin, which has a yellow-red pigment. The combination of higher levels and a more even distribution of melanin in black skin also protects from premature signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles. However, the biggest difference in how black skin ages differently to white skin is due to collagen differences.


(2) Collagen

Collagen in black skin is organised into bundles of smaller, thicker, tighter fibres than in white skin. in all skin, melanin protects these bundles of collagen from UV damage, to an extent. Eumelanin offers superior protection than pheomelanin, therefore collagen does not degrade as quickly and black skin remains smoother and firmer for longer. Signs of ageing are more likely to present as pigmentation and an uneven skin tone on black skin. 


(3) Hyperpigmentation

While higher levels of melanin are beneficial in preventing signs of sun damage, it increases the chances of discolouration issues. Black skin is more vulnerable to hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation. Many everyday triggers can increase melanin production, potentially causing dark or light patches on the skin. Pigmentation can take a long time to break down, therefore, it is a difficult risk to handle. Even skin conditions as minor as a pimple can trigger extra pigmentation. Incorporating SPF into your daily skin routine year round is the best way to minimise the risk and ensure the skin stays healthy. The idea that black skin does not require SPF is a dangerous myth. Ensuring you apply SPF post treatment and maintain consistent sun protection is key.


(4) Scarring

Just as higher levels of melanin increase the risk of pigmentation, the optimum levels of collagen in black skin increases the risk of scarring. In particular, hypertrophic and keloid scars can be common concerns for those with darker skin. Collagen production is stimulated as a natural healing response. This can be beneficial, as with the Collagen Lift treatment. When there is no injury to heal, collagen will flood the treatment area – plumping and rejuvenating the skin. However, when there is an injury to the epidermis, such as acne or a cut, it can be a problem. Often, the collagen does not receive the signal to stop regenerating when the wound has healed. This results in the excess collagen accumulating as scar tissue, and growing larger than the original injury. The increased risk of scarring may affect how black clients care for their skin. Treatments such as micro-needling, that require a controlled injury, may not be appropriate. As with any treatment, suitability should be assessed with a thorough consultation. 


(5) Dryness and Water Retention

Another key difference found between black and white skin is water retention. Black skin tends to be naturally thicker, with more sebaceous glands and increased oil production. This contributes to maintaining a youthful appearance, with fewer fine lines and wrinkles. However, black skin can be prone to dryness and increased water loss as ceramide levels are lower. Getting moisture and hydration back into the skin can also be more difficult, due to increased layers of keratinocytes.  Black clients may struggle with product absorption and may require exfoliation treatments, such as Microdermabrasion, to help with this. It is important to note that exfoliation should be carried out more gently on black skin, to avoid any negative risks.

Follow Me.

Why Train in Beauty or Massage Courses: Unlock a Rewarding Career Path

April 21, 2025
Are you considering a new career or looking to expand your skillset? Training in beauty or massage therapy courses is not only a smart investment in your future, but also opens the door to a flexible, fulfilling, and high-demand profession. Whether you’re a complete beginner or already working in the wellness industry, enrolling in accredited beauty and massage courses can significantly elevate your career prospects. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top reasons why you should train in beauty or massage therapy, the benefits of gaining professional qualifications, and how this path can lead to financial freedom and personal satisfaction. 1. High Demand for Qualified Beauty and Massage Therapists The wellness and self-care industry is booming. More people than ever are investing in treatments like facials, body massage, lymphatic drainage, and holistic therapies to manage stress and improve their appearance and wellbeing. This means there’s a growing demand for skilled and certified professionals in both beauty and massage therapy. By completing an IPHM-accredited beauty or massage course, you position yourself as a trusted and knowledgeable expert that clients can rely on. 2. Flexible Career Opportunities One of the biggest advantages of training in this field is the flexibility it offers. Once qualified, you can choose to: Work in a beauty salon or spa Start your own mobile or home-based business Rent a treatment room in a wellness clinic Offer pop-up services at events or in luxury hotels Travel and work abroad, especially in wellness tourism hotspots Whether you want to work full-time, part-time, or around family commitments, a career in beauty or massage therapy gives you the freedom to create a schedule that suits your lifestyle. 3. Low Start-Up Costs and High Earning Potential Compared to many other industries, the beauty and massage sector has relatively low start-up costs, especially if you begin as a mobile therapist or work from home. Once you’re qualified and have your basic equipment, you can quickly begin earning and even charge premium prices for specialist treatments such as: Lymphatic drainage massage Advanced facial treatments Aromatherapy massage Hot stone massage Infrared detox therapy Specialising in high-demand treatments allows you to stand out in a competitive market and build a loyal client base. 4. Accredited Qualifications Build Trust and Credibility Clients are more likely to book treatments with therapists who hold recognised and accredited qualifications. When you train with an IPHM-accredited academy or an established beauty training provider, you gain a certificate that proves your skills meet industry standards. Accreditation also gives you access to professional insurance, enabling you to work safely and legally while protecting both you and your clients. 5. Personal and Professional Growth Beyond the practical skills, beauty and massage training also boosts your confidence, creativity, and communication skills. You’ll learn how to create a calming environment, connect with clients on a deeper level, and develop a real sense of purpose by helping others feel their best. Plus, there’s always room to grow! You can continue to upskill with advanced beauty courses, specialise in niche treatments, or even go on to teach and train others in the future. 6. Be Your Own Boss Perhaps the most appealing reason to train in beauty or massage therapy is the ability to be your own boss. You set your hours, choose your services, and build a brand that reflects your personality and passion. If you dream of financial independence and running a business you love, this industry offers all the tools and opportunities to make it happen. Ready to Get Started? At Restore Harmony Training Academy, we offer a wide range of fully accredited beauty and massage courses, including: Lymphatic Drainage Massage Training Post Operative Lymphatic Drainage Swedish Massage Hot Stone Massage Facials Aromatherapy Massage Our courses are designed for beginners and experienced therapists alike, with small class sizes, hands-on learning, and expert guidance every step of the way.  Learn more https://www.restoreharmony.co.uk/acreddited-massage-course

Skin Flooding

November 18, 2024
Influencers and video content are rising in popularity across social media sites such as Instagram and Tiktok. So, skincare trends come around quickly. As such, it can be difficult to keep track of what is going on. So, the ‘trending topic’ blog series will keep you up to date with trends to know across the skincare sphere. Next up – Skin Flooding. Here’s what you need to know. What Is Skin Flooding? Skin Flooding, as the name suggests, focuses on maximum hydration and absorption. This flooding is achieved by layering moisture rich products during your routine. The skin flooding process reflects the idea of saturating your skin with hydration step by step, starting from the lightest formulas and moving toward slightly thicker products, to lock the hydration in. Implementing Skin Flooding The secret to effective skin flooding is layering your skincare in the correct order to maximise the skin’s moisture absorption. Step 1: Cleanser Start with a gentle, hydrating cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or impurities while keeping your skin’s moisture barrier intact. Step 2: Toner Spritz Spritz a lightweight toner, preferably one that includes ingredients that attract water to the skin, as this will act as the base layer of hydration. Step 3: Your Choice of Serum Follow up with a hydrating serum, preferably one that contains beneficial ingredients, like hyaluronic acid. This step is key in trapping water into your skin. If you’re interested in incorporating a serum-based treatment into your skincare routine and want to leave it to the professionals, the new SkinBase Hydro is a great choice. Step 4: Hydrate Seal in all the hydration from the previous steps with a lightweight moisturiser. If you have very dry skin, you can opt for a thicker cream for maximum hydration at this point. A rich, nourishing cream that replenishes skin and restores moisture. Step 5: Daily Protect SPF Finish up with your SPF to protect the skin from damage, and prevent free radical related dryness. Choose an SPF with UVA and UVB protection to help defend the skin against sun damage and pollution, to prevent premature ageing. Microdermabrasion & Skin Flooding To achieve the best results with your Skin Flooding routine, you can have a course of SkinBase Microdermabrasion, to enhance product absorption. The abrasive crystals used during a microdermabrasion treatment unclogs the pores and removes the dead skin from your face. Once these dead cells are gone, and your pores are clear, your skin will be able to absorb your skincare products much better, for maximum hydration.

The Incredible Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage After Cosmetic Surgery

June 10, 2024
The Incredible Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage After Cosmetic Surgery Cosmetic surgery is a significant step towards achieving your desired look, but the journey doesn’t end once you leave the operating table. Recovery is a crucial phase that can significantly impact your final results. One highly recommended post-operative treatment is manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage. This specialised massage technique can accelerate healing, reduce discomfort, and enhance the overall outcome of your surgery. If you're in Birmingham, UK, read on to discover why MLD massage should be part of your post-surgery recovery plan. What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage? Manual lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle, therapeutic technique that stimulates the movement of lymph fluids around the body. This helps remove waste and toxins from the tissues, promoting a healthier and faster recovery. The massage uses light to medium pressure and rhythmic strokes to encourage lymph flow and reduce swelling, which is particularly beneficial after cosmetic surgery. 1. Reduction of Swelling and Bruising Swelling and bruising are common after cosmetic surgery. MLD massage helps to reduce these symptoms by stimulating the lymphatic system, which drains excess fluids and reduces inflammation. This can lead to a quicker reduction in swelling and less visible bruising, enhancing your overall recovery experience. 2. Accelerated Healing Process The improved circulation from manual lymphatic drainage massage promotes faster healing. By enhancing lymph flow, the body can more efficiently transport nutrients to tissues and remove waste products. This can lead to quicker recovery times and better surgical outcomes. 3. Pain Management and Relief Post-surgical pain can be daunting, but MLD massage offers a natural way to manage and reduce pain. The gentle techniques used in MLD help to alleviate pressure and discomfort, providing relief from the soreness that often accompanies cosmetic procedures. 4. Improvement in Skin Texture and Appearance MLD massage can significantly improve the texture and appearance of your skin, especially after liposuction where there can be some wrinkling and hardening. MLD promotes better circulation and reducing fluid retention, your skin can heal more evenly and look more refined. This is particularly beneficial for minimising scars and improving skin tone post-surgery. 5. Enhanced Circulation and Detoxification Enhanced circulation is one of the key benefits of MLD massage. By boosting blood flow, the body can deliver essential nutrients more effectively and remove toxins more efficiently. This detoxification process supports overall health and speeds up recovery. 6. Reduction in Scar Tissue Formation MLD massage helps to reduce the formation of scar tissue by ensuring proper fluid drainage and reducing inflammation. This leads to softer, less noticeable scars, contributing to a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing recovery. 7. Boosting the Immune System The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune system. By stimulating lymph flow, MLD massage enhances the body’s ability to fight off infections and recover from surgery more efficiently, which is vital during the vulnerable post-operative phase. 8. Psychological Benefits Beyond physical benefits, manual lymphatic drainage massage also offers significant psychological advantages. The relaxing nature of the massage helps to reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of well-being and mental relaxation. This can be incredibly beneficial during recovery, as a positive mindset aids in overall healing. 9. Recommended Frequency and Duration of Sessions For optimal results, it is recommended to start MLD sessions soon after surgery, typically 2-3 times per week, gradually reducing as recovery progresses. Each session usually lasts about an hour, and a qualified therapist can tailor the treatment to your specific needs. 10. Expert Care in Birmingham, UK If you are recovering from cosmetic surgery in Birmingham, and looking for Manual Lymphatic Drainage massage, Restore Harmony is the place to be. I will ensure that you receive safe and effective treatment tailored to your recovery needs. I am fully qualified with positive reviews to guarantee the best care. **FAQs** What is the primary benefit of manual lymphatic drainage massage after cosmetic surgery? The primary benefit is the reduction of swelling and bruising, which accelerates the healing process and enhances the overall recovery experience. How soon after surgery can I start MLD massage? It's typically recommended to start MLD massage within a few days to a week after surgery, depending on your surgeon's advice. How often should I get MLD massage after cosmetic surgery? Initially, 2-3 sessions per week are recommended, gradually decreasing as you heal. Is manual lymphatic drainage massage painful? No, MLD massage uses gentle, light to medium pressure and should not be painful, however it can cause some discomfort. Can MLD massage help with scar reduction? Yes, MLD massage promotes better fluid drainage and reduces inflammation, which can lead to softer, less noticeable scars. Conclusion Manual lymphatic drainage massage is a powerful tool in your post-cosmetic surgery recovery kit. From reducing swelling and bruising to accelerating the healing process and managing pain, MLD massage offers numerous benefits that can enhance your recovery journey. If you are in Birmingham, UK, consider booking a session with Restore Harmony to experience these benefits first-hand. Your body will thank you for it. To find out more about post surgery lymphatic drainage follow this link https://www.restoreharmony.co.uk/postoplymphaticdrainagemassage