One of the biggest misconceptions about black skin is that it's low maintenance. While that may be true for some, melanin-rich skin requires special care and attention. Compared to women, black men tend to have thicker skin due to terminal hair follicles, which help combat wrinkles. Also, increased testosterone after puberty also increases oil and sweat production, putting black men at greater risk of acne and breakouts.

At Golden Grooming Co., we know that when you look good, you feel good, so you’re able to do good. And since we all need more good in our communities, here are five ways you can improve the look and feel of your skin:

# 1 - Select the Best Products

Your skin is like a sponge, absorbing everything that you put on it. If your creams, balms, and lotions contain harmful substances and chemicals, then please believe they are entering the rest of your body. Rule of thumb: if you can’t pronounce the ingredients, don’t put it on your skin. Skip the chemical cocktail and choose natural men's skincare products. And more specifically, choose skincare formulated for black men(hint: Golden Grooming Co.).

#2 - Create a Routine (and Stick With It)

You wouldn’t float through life without a plan, goals, and a strategy – your skincare deserves the same approach. After choosing the best natural products for your skin, experiment with the sequence and the frequency until you create a routine that’s perfect for you. Your routine should always start with a detoxifying facial wash, but if you need help, check out our Best Skincare Routine for Black Men.

#3 - Take a Look at Your Diet

Excessively greasy meals like pizza have been proven to lead to acne and breakouts. Dairy and pork have also been linked with increased breakouts and skin issues. Try to cut down on fried foods, dairy, and pork for a week just to see if you notice any changes in your complexion, we bet you will. Also, start chugging more water on a daily basis, better hydration will keep your skin radiant and healthy.

#4 - Let Go Of Your Bad Habits

If you drink and/ or smoke, it will negatively affect your skin. Alcohol dehydrates your body, including your skin. Drinking too much can also deprive the skin of essential vitamins and nutrients. Smoking isn’t any better. Not only is smoking bad for your lungs, but it damages skin cells and causes accelerated aging. Don’t play yourself. Let those bad habits go and find other healthy ways to cope with life.

#5 - Find Ways to Reduce Stress

Stress can take a big toll on your skin. Not only does it cause wrinkles and other signs of aging, but it also cause acne. If something in your life isn’t making you a better man, it’s probably making you worse.  Find a new hobby, join a gym, practice meditation, or take our Level Up Challenge to reduce stress and live life to the fullest.

More Tips On Taking Care of Your Skin

Improving your skin isn’t an overnight task, it requires discipline. Luckily, we’ve created a line of men's body care products designed to TRANSFORM black men’s skin over time. Like all great things, the best way to maintain healthy skin is to learn the basics for black men’s skincare and adhere to a proven skincare routine that works.  If you need additional guidance, check out A Black Man's Guide to Getting Rid of Ashy Skin Once and For All.