According to Harvard University professor Geoffrey Jones, the Asia-Pacific region accounts for 40 percent of the global skin care market. The Chinese spend four times as much on skin care products as they do on on makeup. The Asian dominance of this market is largely due to the popularity of skin-lightening products, used both for cosmetic reasons and to correct pigmentation problems resulting from acne and sun exposure.
Acne Products
According to an article by the American Academy of Dermatology, many Asians experience inflammatory acne. Not only does acne cause unsightly, painful blemishes, but it can also produce a condition called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, characterized by dark spots left behind after blemishes disappear.
To prevent acne, wash your face daily with a gentle cleanser containing acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid. Use cosmetics labeled as "non-comodogenic," which means they won't clog your pores. Be careful with products that contain benzoyl peroxide, as they can sometimes bleach skin.
Sunscreen Products
Asian women should understand the importance of wearing sunscreen, according to the American Academy of Dermatology article. In addition to preventing skin cancer and premature aging of the skin, sunscreen helps guard Asian skin against pigmentation problems that occur with acne, according to dermatologist Roopal V. Kundu. Look for facial moisturizers that contain sunscreen, especially if you have sensitive skin, as traditional all-over sunscreens can irritate your face and eyes. Wear sunscreen daily, no matter the time of year or whether you burn or tan easily.
Pigmentation Products
Many darker-skinned Asian women use products that claim to lighten skin. Some of these products contain harsh bleaching agents that can irritate and dry out skin. If you use these products for cosmetic reasons, be sure you are willing to take the risk of these adverse side effects before proceeding. Some Asians experience a skin condition called melasma, characterized by brown patches on the cheeks, nose, upper lip and forehead. These can be treated locally using lightening creams or with laser treatment from a doctor. Use sunscreen to avoid developing melasma.
Member Comments