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Best Face Moisturizer For African American Skin (2024 Update)

Finding the best face moisturizer for African American skin can be a challenging task. With so many products on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? Before purchasing a face moisturizer, there are a few key factors African American men and women should consider.

First, look for products specifically formulated for darker skin tones. Many general market moisturizers are not made to address the unique needs of African American skin. Seek out brands that cater to darker complexions. Second, choose a moisturizer that offers broad spectrum SPF protection. The melanin in African American skin provides some natural sun defense, but additional UV protection is still essential for maintaining skin’s youthful appearance and preventing hyperpigmentation.

Next, consider your own skin type. Does your skin tend to be normal, oily, dry or combination? Selecting an oil-free, water-based moisturizer can prevent clogged pores and acne breakouts. For severely dry skin, a richer cream may provide necessary hydration. If you have sensitive skin, avoid fragranced products to reduce irritation. Finally, ingredients matter. Humectants like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, plant oils and ceramides can boost and seal in moisture. Antioxidants like vitamin C tackle dark spots. Know what your skin needs before purchasing.

Have you found the perfect moisturizer for your skin? Do you feel confused navigating the overwheliming choices? Keep reading to uncover the top-rated face moisturizers specifically tailored for African American men and women. Discover which nourishing formulas deliver flawless, hydrated skin.

12 Best Face Moisturizer For African American Skin

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for extra dry skin, fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic gel cream face lotion with hyaluronic acid.
2
Ideal for moisturizing and mattifying oily or combination skin types, while also helping to minimize the appearance of pores.
3
This product is ideal for both men and women, especially those with acne-prone skin, as it contains organic and moisturizing ingredients.
4
Ideal for daily face moisturizing and protection from sun damage, while also evening out skin tone.
5
It is an anti-aging facial moisturizer with SPF 15 that contains glycerin, vitamins, and alpha-hydroxy acids.
6
Ideal for providing intense and long-lasting hydration to soothe and nourish dry, sensitive skin with natural ingredients.
7
It is ideal for moisturizing and nourishing dry skin.
8
Ideal for improving dull and uneven skin tone, with the use of papaya and vitamin C for rejuvenating moisturization.
9
It is ideal for balancing and moisturizing dry skin, featuring African black soap and shea butter.
10
Buttah is ideal for maintaining a well-manicured lawn with precision and efficiency, making mowing tasks effortless.
11
It is ideal for hair and skin care, especially for those with curly, coily, or kinky textures.
12
It is an unscented daily face moisturizer made with nutrient-rich Shea butter, suitable for all skin types.
Ideal for extra dry skin, fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic gel cream face lotion with hyaluronic acid.
Ideal for moisturizing and mattifying oily or combination skin types, while also helping to minimize the appearance of pores.
This product is ideal for both men and women, especially those with acne-prone skin, as it contains organic and moisturizing ingredients.
Ideal for daily face moisturizing and protection from sun damage, while also evening out skin tone.
It is an anti-aging facial moisturizer with SPF 15 that contains glycerin, vitamins, and alpha-hydroxy acids.
Ideal for providing intense and long-lasting hydration to soothe and nourish dry, sensitive skin with natural ingredients.
It is ideal for moisturizing and nourishing dry skin.
Ideal for improving dull and uneven skin tone, with the use of papaya and vitamin C for rejuvenating moisturization.
It is ideal for balancing and moisturizing dry skin, featuring African black soap and shea butter.
Buttah is ideal for maintaining a well-manicured lawn with precision and efficiency, making mowing tasks effortless.
It is ideal for hair and skin care, especially for those with curly, coily, or kinky textures.
It is an unscented daily face moisturizer made with nutrient-rich Shea butter, suitable for all skin types.

1. Hydrating Gel Cream For Extra Dry Skin

The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Daily Gel-Cream Face Moisturizer is the perfect solution for those with extra-dry skin. This 1.7-ounce jar of moisturizer is designed to keep skin looking smooth, supple, and hydrated day after day. While the packaging may vary, the formula remains the same and is packed with benefits.

This unique facial moisturizing gel-cream is formulated to absorb quickly like a gel, but provides the long-lasting, intense moisturizing power of a cream. It is specially designed for those with even extra dry skin, and it boosts skin's hydration and locks it in all day long.

This gel cream is formulated with hyaluronic acid, a hydrator that is naturally found in the skin and recognized by dermatologists. It binds to water and holds it within the surface of the skin, providing more supple, smooth skin. This daily hydrating face moisturizer is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores. It is oil-free, dye-free, and fragrance-free, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.

This moisturizer is designed with the Earth in mind. Neutrogena has removed the window and plastic tray from the carton for easier recycling. The brand is committed to sustainability efforts, and you can learn more about their efforts at Neutrogena.com.

2. Charcoal Shea Soap For Clearer Skin

The O Naturals Black Soap Bar Collection is a versatile set of 6 natural bar soaps designed to meet all your skin needs. The collection includes Moisturizing African Black Soap, Detoxifying Charcoal Soap, Exfoliating Coffee Soap, Rejuvenating Tea Tree Soap, Purifying Dead Sea Salt Soap, and Cleansing Dead Sea Mud Soap.

Indulge in a relaxing and deeply cleansing experience with these mineral-rich bar soaps. Each soap is designed to hydrate and nourish your skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Choose from African Black Soap, Mud & Green Clay, Activated Charcoal, Black Tea & Tea Tree, Dead Sea Mud & Salt, and Black Coffee Soap, depending on your preference.

The O Naturals Black Soap Bar Collection is beneficial for all skin types, including dry, oily, sensitive, aging, teenage, and normal skin. It is also ideal for damaged skin, thanks to its soothing properties.

This soap collection is French triple milled, ensuring an indulgent and clarifying spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home. The authentic, all-natural, and organic ingredients in each soap leave your face and body feeling cleansed, hydrated, moisturized, and luxuriously soft.

Please note that the color of the African Black Soap may vary from brown to light brown, black, or beige, depending on our suppliers and how the ingredients were harvested.

3. Ambi Even & Clear Daily Facial Moisturizer Spf 30 Helps Even Tone

Introducing the Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30, a skincare product that combines natural extracts, proteins, and vitamins to refine, soften, and even out skin tone. Unlike mineral formulas, this organic SPF 30 formula does not leave a white or ashy cast on melanin-rich skin.

Featuring Hyaluronic Acid paired with Aloe and Cucumber Extracts, this moisturizer provides triple the moisture without clogging pores. Additionally, it contains antioxidant-rich Vitamins C and E to rejuvenate and add a healthy glow to the skin.

Ambi, a brand that produces dermatologist-recommended products, offers a complete skincare regimen that caters to the needs of melanin-rich skin. From cleansers, bar soaps, serums, moisturizers, to fade creams, these products help to fade dark spots and discoloration, treat acne, dry skin, eczema, and other skincare concerns.

Embark on a skincare journey towards smooth, even-toned, and flawless-looking skin with Ambi's range of skincare products specifically formulated for diverse skin tones. For 50 years, Ambi has been the go-to brand for women of color, blending science and nature to create affordable, high-quality skincare products.

4. Neutrogena Wrinkle Defense Moisturizer With Spf 15

The Neutrogena Healthy Skin Face Lotion with SPF 15 Sunscreen is a 2.5-fluid ounce bottle of facial moisturizing lotion that is designed to enhance the appearance of skin while protecting it from sun damage. It contains alpha-hydroxy acid, an effective skin care ingredient that helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines. Additionally, it features Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Pro-Vitamin B5, which work together to smooth dull, rough, damaged, and uneven skin.

With Broad Spectrum SPF 15, this facial moisturizing lotion provides protection against the harmful rays of the sun. It also works to improve the texture and appearance of the skin, leaving it smoother, softer, and with improved radiance and clarity. Clinical studies have proven results can be seen in as little as 2 weeks.

This anti-wrinkle treatment is recommended by dermatologists and is allergy tested, oil-free, and non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog pores. It absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it feeling hydrated and refreshed.

5. Hydrate & Nourish: Belif Moisturizing Bomb

Introducing a cushiony cream that focuses on providing deep nourishment and comfort to dull, flaky skin. This ultra-moisturizing cream is designed to address skincare concerns such as dryness, uneven texture, and dullness.

The cream contains a unique blend of apothecary herbs, including comfrey leaf, which has been used historically by farmers to moisturize their calloused hands. Comfrey leaf acts as an ultra-moisturizing herb that offers intense hydration to dry, flaky skin for a soft and smooth appearance.

In addition to comfrey leaf, the cream also contains oat extract, which is known for its skin-soothing properties, and panthenol, which helps skin attract and retain moisture to improve its overall look and feel. Together, these ingredients work to provide an explosion of comforting moisture to the skin.

This product is packaged in recyclable packaging, making it a sustainable choice for those who prioritize eco-friendliness.

6. Okay Shea Butter Jar White 13oz Weight (16oz Jar Size)

The White Ivory Smooth Shea Butter is a versatile beauty product that moisturizes, nourishes, and heals all hair textures and skin types. It is specially formulated to reduce inflammation, smooth skin, reduce wrinkles, treat eczema and blemishes, heal wounds, soothe sunburn, and dermatitis.

This emollient-rich butter is made from 100% pure raw African Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii), which is imported from Ghana, Africa. It is an all-natural and pure product that is safe for everyone in the family to use.

In addition to its moisturizing properties, the White Ivory Smooth Shea Butter also helps to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. It soothes dry skin and improves the skin’s elasticity, making it a key ingredient in any skincare routine.

The Shea Butter is also effective in healing dry scalp, skin cracks, softening tough skin on feet, and even skin tone. It can also be used to treat and prevent stretch marks.

When used in hair care, Shea butter helps to seal in hair moisture, reducing frizz, preventing breakage, and protecting hair from sun and heat damage. It is a must-have product for anyone looking to maintain healthy and beautiful hair.

7. Sheamoisture Night Cream For Dull, Uneven Skin Papaya And Vitamin C Skin Care Moisturizer 2 Oz

Achieve a brighter, more radiant complexion with SheaMoisture's Brighter Days Ahead Night Cream. This skin-loving moisturizer works hard overnight to transform dull skin into glowing, supple, and soft skin. Infused with a powerful blend of papaya, vitamin C, and yuzu lemon, this night cream provides intense hydration to revive tired skin while also combating the effects of environmental stressors.

To use, simply apply this luxurious night cream after cleansing your face in upward motions. Allow the cream to absorb into your skin while you sleep, and wake up to brighter, more radiant skin. Formulated without parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, or sulfates, this night cream is perfect for those with sensitive skin.

SheaMoisture's Papaya and Vitamin C Night Cream is designed to be part of your daily skincare routine, helping to moisturize and brighten your skin while you sleep. With its powerful blend of natural ingredients and gentle, non-irritating formulation, this night cream is suitable for all skin types. So why wait? Start your journey to brighter, more radiant skin today with SheaMoisture's Brighter Days Ahead Night Cream!

8. Sheamoisture Balancing Moisturizer For Dry Skin African Black Soap With Shea Butter 2 Oz

Introducing the SheaMoisture African Black Soap Balancing Moisturizer, a versatile product that caters to oily to combination skin types. This lightweight face lotion doubles as a cream and dry skin moisturizer that keeps the skin well-hydrated.

The SheaMoisture African Black Soap Balancing Moisturizer is crafted using ethically sourced Shea Butter and moisture-rich oils. This paraben-free travel size lotion proves to be a perfect fit in your daily routine. The product is blended with Black soap and fair trade Shea Butter, creating a rich dry skin lotion that moisturizes and nourishes the skin.

SheaMoisture takes pride in the formulation of their dry skin cream, moisturizing lotion, and hand care, which is free from parabens, phthalates, and mineral oils. This skin moisturizer can also be used as a hand therapy dry skin moisturizer or a daily moisturizing lotion for dry and sensitive skin.

Experience the goodness of SheaMoisture's shea butter moisturizing cream and skin moisturizer for dry skin. The product has been tested for generations on family members and is never tested on animals. This lightweight lotion promises to leave your skin feeling soft, supple, and refreshed.

9. Shea Moisture

This facial regimen kit is specially formulated to provide exceptional care for acne-prone skin. With a combination of natural ingredients like oat and aloe, this kit supports clear and fresh skin while restoring and brightening troubled areas.

The kit includes a soap bar and facial scrub that work together to deeply cleanse the skin and help clear blemishes. The traditional cleanser also helps to balance natural oils, allowing your skin to look its best.

In addition to cleansing, this kit also includes a facial mask and moisturizer that provide intense hydration for problem skin. The moisturizer leaves the skin feeling soft and refreshed, while the mask works to soothe and restore troubled areas.

One of the key ingredients in this kit is African Black Soap, which is an honored beauty secret that is quickly becoming a favorite cleanser and clarifier for both the face and body. Its refreshing properties make it an excellent addition to any skincare routine.

10. African Shea Nutrient Face Moisturizer

The Authentic African Whipped Shea Moisturizer by Alaffia is a luxurious facial moisturizer that leaves skin with a healthy, luminous glow. Its whipped texture feels smooth and silky upon application, providing a nourishing and hydrating experience. This facial moisturizer is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, making it a nutrient-rich formula that deeply nourishes and hydrates the skin.

One of the key ingredients in this unscented face moisturizer is moisturizing shea butter, which is known for its softening and smoothing properties. This makes it a natural choice for both men and women. It is recommended that you use this whipped shea butter facial moisturizer souffle after cleansing your face and applying the Authentic African Facial Serum for best results. It is important to note that this moisturizer is for external use only.

Alaffia prides itself on creating products that are suitable for all skin types. This whipped shea moisturizer is made without parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, making it a safe and ideal choice for anyone, regardless of their skin type. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, this moisturizer will leave your skin feeling soft, supple, and hydrated.

Best Face Moisturizer For African American Skin FAQs

Are there any natural or organic face moisturizers for African American skin that are recommended?

Yes, there are several natural or organic face moisturizers that are recommended for African American skin. African American skin is prone to dryness, sensitivity, and hyperpigmentation, so it is important to use moisturizers that are gentle and nourishing. Some of the best natural or organic face moisturizers for African American skin include:

1. Shea butter: Shea butter is a rich and luxurious moisturizer that is perfect for African American skin. It is packed with vitamins and nutrients that nourish and hydrate the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and smooth.

2. Coconut oil: Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that is perfect for dry and sensitive skin. It is rich in fatty acids that help to hydrate and protect the skin, while also reducing inflammation and redness.

3. Aloe vera: Aloe vera is a soothing and hydrating moisturizer that is perfect for African American skin. It is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help to nourish and protect the skin, while also reducing inflammation and irritation.

4. Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil is a light and non-greasy moisturizer that is perfect for African American skin. It is rich in vitamins and minerals that help to hydrate and protect the skin, while also reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Overall, natural and organic face moisturizers are a great choice for African American skin. They are gentle, nourishing, and effective, and can help to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant.

Are there any specific brands that specialize in face moisturizers for African American skin?

Yes, there are several brands that specialize in face moisturizers for African American skin. These brands understand the unique needs of melanin-rich skin, which tends to be more prone to dryness, hyperpigmentation, and uneven texture. Some of the top brands for face moisturizers for African American skin include:

1. Black Opal: This brand offers a range of moisturizers that are formulated to hydrate and nourish melanin-rich skin while also addressing common concerns like dark spots and uneven skin tone.

2. Shea Moisture: Known for its natural and organic ingredients, Shea Moisture offers a line of face moisturizers that are specifically formulated for African American skin. Their products are designed to provide deep hydration and improve skin texture and tone.

3. Olay: Olay has a line of moisturizers that are specifically formulated for mature African American skin. Their products are designed to improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and provide long-lasting hydration.

4. Cetaphil: Cetaphil's face moisturizers are gentle and non-irritating, making them a great choice for those with sensitive African American skin. Their products are designed to provide long-lasting hydration without clogging pores or causing breakouts.

Overall, there are many great brands that specialize in face moisturizers for African American skin. It's important to choose a product that is specifically formulated for your skin type and concerns in order to achieve the best results.

Are there any specific recommendations for a night-time face moisturizer for African American skin?

Yes, there are specific recommendations for a night-time face moisturizer for African American skin. African American skin tends to be more prone to dryness, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. Therefore, it is essential to use a moisturizer that can provide deep hydration, nourishment, and brightening benefits.

One of the best ingredients to look for in a night-time moisturizer for African American skin is hyaluronic acid. It is a powerful humectant that can attract and retain moisture in the skin, thereby improving its hydration levels. Another ingredient to consider is niacinamide, which can help to reduce hyperpigmentation and even out the skin tone.

Some of the best night-time moisturizers for African American skin include CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, Olay Regenerist Night Recovery Cream, and Aveeno Positively Radiant MaxGlow Infusion Drops. These moisturizers contain the right blend of ingredients to hydrate, nourish, and brighten the skin, making it look healthy and radiant.

In conclusion, when looking for a night-time moisturizer for African American skin, it is important to consider the ingredients and their benefits. Look for a moisturizer that can provide deep hydration, nourishment, and brightening benefits to help improve the appearance of the skin.

Can a face moisturizer for African American skin help with fine lines and wrinkles?

Yes, a face moisturizer designed for African American skin can definitely help with fine lines and wrinkles. As we age, our skin naturally loses moisture and elasticity, resulting in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, moisturizing regularly can help to prevent and diminish these signs of aging. When choosing a moisturizer, it's important to look for ingredients that are known to be effective in combating fine lines and wrinkles, such as hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin C. Additionally, it's important to choose a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for African American skin, as this skin type often requires products that are richer and more hydrating than those meant for other skin types. By using a moisturizer that is designed to meet the unique needs of African American skin, you can help to keep your skin looking youthful, radiant, and healthy.

Can a face moisturizer for African American skin help with hyperpigmentation and dark spots?

Yes, a face moisturizer specifically formulated for African American skin can help with hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Hyperpigmentation is a common concern for people with darker skin tones, and it occurs when there is an overproduction of melanin in the skin. This can result in dark spots or patches on the skin. A moisturizer that is designed for African American skin typically contains ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, which can help to brighten the skin and even out skin tone. Additionally, some moisturizers may contain ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or retinoids, which can help to exfoliate the skin and fade dark spots over time. It is important to note that moisturizers alone may not be enough to completely eliminate hyperpigmentation, and a comprehensive skincare routine that includes sunscreen, gentle exfoliation, and targeted treatments may be necessary for best results.

How often should a face moisturizer be applied to African American skin?

The frequency of applying face moisturizer to African American skin depends on several factors such as the skin type, environment, and the type of moisturizer being used. In general, it is recommended to apply a moisturizer twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. However, if you have dry skin, you may need to apply it more frequently, such as every four hours or as needed throughout the day.

It is essential to choose a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for African American skin, as it tends to be drier and more prone to hyperpigmentation. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, or glycerin, which can help to hydrate the skin and lock in moisture.

Furthermore, it is essential to avoid using harsh soaps or cleansers that can strip the skin of its natural oils and further dry it out. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser that is free of sulfates and other harsh chemicals.

In conclusion, the best practice is to listen to your skin and adjust your moisturizing routine accordingly. If you notice that your skin feels dry or tight, apply moisturizer more frequently, and if you notice excess oil, reduce the frequency of application.

Should a face moisturizer for African American skin contain SPF?

Yes, a face moisturizer for African American skin should contain SPF. While it is true that people with darker skin have more melanin, which provides some natural protection against the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, it is still important to use sunscreen or a moisturizer with SPF. Darker skin is still susceptible to sun damage, including sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging. In fact, African Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer in its later stages, which can be more difficult to treat. Therefore, daily use of a moisturizer with SPF can help protect against sun damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer. When choosing a moisturizer with SPF, it is important to look for one that is specifically formulated for the face and does not leave a white cast.

What are the best ingredients to look for in a face moisturizer for African American skin?

When it comes to moisturizers for African American skin, there are certain ingredients that are highly beneficial. One key ingredient to look for is hyaluronic acid, which can help to keep the skin hydrated and plump. Another great ingredient is shea butter, which is extremely moisturizing and can help to improve skin elasticity. Additionally, antioxidants like vitamin C and E can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

Other beneficial ingredients for African American skin include glycerin, which can help to attract moisture to the skin, and niacinamide, which can help to improve the appearance of pores and even out skin tone. It's also important to look for products that are free from harmful ingredients like sulfates and parabens, as these can be harsh on the skin.

Overall, the best approach is to look for products that are specifically formulated for African American skin, as these will often contain a combination of beneficial ingredients that work well together to keep the skin looking healthy and radiant.

What are the best recommendations for a face moisturizer for African American skin with sensitive skin?

When it comes to selecting a face moisturizer for African American skin with sensitive skin, it is important to choose a product that is gentle, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic. Look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which work to hydrate and plump the skin without causing irritation. Additionally, it is important to avoid ingredients such as alcohol, fragrances, and harsh exfoliants, which can cause dryness, redness, and inflammation.

Some of the best face moisturizers for African American skin with sensitive skin include Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Lotion, Cerave PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, and Aveeno Ultra-Calming Daily Moisturizer. These products are formulated with gentle, non-irritating ingredients and are designed to provide long-lasting hydration without causing irritation or breakouts.

Ultimately, the best face moisturizer for African American skin with sensitive skin will depend on your individual skin type and concerns. It is important to choose a product that works well with your skin and provides the hydration and nourishment it needs to look and feel its best.

What are the key differences between face moisturizers for African American skin and those for other skin types?

The key differences between face moisturizers for African American skin and those for other skin types are the specific ingredients that are used to address the unique needs of this skin type. African American skin has a higher melanin content, which makes it more prone to hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. As a result, moisturizers for African American skin often contain ingredients such as niacinamide, vitamin C, and licorice root extract, which are known to brighten and even out the skin tone.

In addition, African American skin tends to be oilier than other skin types, which means that moisturizers for this skin type should be lightweight and non-greasy. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which provide hydration without clogging pores or causing breakouts.

Finally, African American skin is also more prone to dryness, especially in colder months. Therefore, it is important to choose a moisturizer that contains emollients like shea butter, cocoa butter, or jojoba oil, which provide long-lasting moisture and help to prevent dryness and flakiness. Overall, the key to finding the best moisturizer for African American skin is to look for products that are specifically formulated to address the unique needs of this skin type.

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