I've learned so much by watching your channel. Skin of color is not often considered when products are formulated, which leaves us experimenting and purchasing products that aren't good for our skin. Listening to you give me hope and makes me feel special that there are a few companies out there that care about skin of color.
Can you just me my dermatologist?!? Love you☺️ I’ve seen such a huge reduction in my acne with the advice you’ve given. Now I’m treating the hyperpigmentation.
What helped me was using aluminum free deodorants and scrubbing my armpits with the brush used for your back. Shaving isn’t causing the hyperpigmentation.
Dr. Stephens could you consider making a video about medspas? My biggest issue is dealing with cost of going to my dermatologist for a treatment, versus going to a medspa which could do the same service for a cheaper price... I am always so conflicted about this.
I am a Fitzpatrick type IV and my dermatologist told me today I need a CO2 fractional laser to get rid of my hyperpigmentation. 😳 We need more dermatologists and estheticians that specialize in treating more individuals with skin of color.
I had a black/ biracial dermatologist tell me the same thing for a scar treatment. Referred me for co2 to a white doctor she used to practice with. I put 2 and 2 together. It’s more about education than skin color because some of the “ black” derms aren’t helpful either and their patients are mostly white. They will advertise all day they treat various issues for skin of color but they are racking up on consultation fees.
As someone who worked in skincare / makeup industry for 13 years I think education is so important! I think it's amazing how you worded go to someone who knows how to treat your skintone not necessarily that looks like you. I think it is amazing when a skincare provider has gone the extra step to include all skintones / types. So many people assume that this is a given that people in the industry know how to work on all hair / skintypes. I'm a professional makeup artist who works very closely with skincare providers and its mind blowing that makeup artist, hairstylist, skincare providers dont go the extra mile to be able to work on all skintones. My main clientele may be light to medium skintones however I make it a priority every year to work on rich skintones so that I can work on all skintones. I have unfortunately worked with artist who didnt know how to work on rich skintones it was embarrassing for both the client. This is unacceptable. I really hope that more people go the extra mile. This was a very informative and 100% agree get before and after photos!
You are a God send to the skincare community on youtube. Thank you thank you thank you for your advice, knowledge, and care! It's encouraging to know that there are reliable and proven options for those with skin of color!
I am a rich melanin Fenty Beauty 450 shade range. I have PCOS & suffer from Hisrutism. I consulted with a Black Dermatologist, Dr Michelle Henry because I needed the truth is laser & electrolysis an option for my skin tone. She said yes. I did not have problems with the lazer. The electrolysis was a different story. Excellent information on this video.
I appreciate this so much! Quick question, how do you feel about Laser Away's Clear and Brilliant? The lasers they use are 1440 nm and 1927nm. Is that higher number better or worse? This is huge for me, thank you so much! 🙏🏽
I went to one medical spa and this Asian lady, who was the Dr's wife, tried to persuade me to do a CO2 laser that same day. I was only there for a consultation for my dpns. She said it was safe for dark skin. But the whole thing just seemed like a quick cash grab, and she did not appear to have a medical background so I got the HECK out!! It was a family run business, even the front desk staff seemed to be related to the Doctor, and he was the only medical professional there. I will stick with chemical peels, I have too much to lose LOL. I can't risk being disfigured. Laser seems like a HUGE RISK for poc.
I agree! They always want to rush you and tell you what you want to hear. It’s hard to believe - I’d feel more comfortable going to someone who looks like us or has worked with a lot of poc
Dr. Stephens, how old are you?? You look SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO YOUNG! My goodness. You look SO incredibly young. Your skin is just absolutely flawless. 😲
I feel so seen 🥺 I just went to a dermatologist that told me that lasers are terrible for people with my skin color (I’m Fitzpatrick VI). You are so right it was a thank you and move on. Can’t thank you enough for this
An aesthetician who did my jet peel told me that as well regarding hair removal. 🤦🏽♀️ they just weren’t experienced enough or had the right equipment I believe. I’m in SW Michigan and I really hope I don’t need to go to Chicago and Detroit to find someone with the appropriate experience, knowledge, and laser. I never knew that clinical skincare would feel so segregated.
Love your videos. Could you please do a video or let me know 1. Are 5-in-1 LED hand held device for home safe for skin of color? 2. what about HF Machines? Are they safe for skin of color? Thank you very much
I just did my CO2 laser to induce collagen and had no complications and good results!!! Yay! (Fitzpatrick V here) My provider was Asian and very aware of all of your recomendations, Thank you Dr., without your knowledge I disregarded all lasers to treat my skin otherwise.
I live in the Netherlands and it's not that easy to find someone who is a specialist in skin of color. I went to someone who said that it was fine and safe for my skin tone. I was 15 with corse hair that grew on my neck and chin... after the first treatment my neck and face were burned off and I had pretty bad burns and scars after that (that also happend to my stomach in a different salon). We do have a "mixed" culture here but I can't find anyone who I can trust with my skin and needs. After that I just epilated my hair and it's a lot less now but still noticeable for and annoying to deal with that as a girl/woman (I'm 19 now). 🙃
thank you for very useful information, I really follow you advice to the T. could you please do a session on what are the best LED light masks for home use. for hyperpigmentation and skin tightening.
An affordable option to consider the ordinary caffeine solution it mainly helps with puffiness which might make the eyes look a bit more awake I keep mine in the fridge so when I put a lil dab around the eye the cold solution feels good works really good at night and in the day I use some expensive stuff from dr Perricone with vitamin c and protect with spf
Hi Dr. Alexis! I'm 44 years old and although I look great for my age, I've aged a lot over the past 4 - 5 years mainly due to stress. I've noticed my skin is starting to sag, my eyes look tired and my skin is dull. I use Noxema as a cleanser, LA Roche Posay Vitamin C, Elemis Eye Cream, Tretinoin (not on Vitamin C days) and a night moisturizer plus suncreen SPF 30. 6 months and I'm still ashy. I want to try a procedure like a Chemical Peel, Microdermabrasion and etc. What do you suggest?
Doctor Stephens, you are RIGHT on time! I just started researching laser treatments for the stubborn pigmentation on my face and bikini line and also laser hair removal. Thank you!
Im in Canada, im not near any of the locations you provided. We have a new laser out here called PicoSure. Can you please advise if the PicoSure laser is safe for dark skin, acne scars, cystic acne and melasma?
I need a list of the right providers!!! Seriously, because I am not knowledgeable of the scientific ramifications of finding a suitable professional capable of treating skin of color, I need a list!
So you know about skin treatments but, one question. Where would you go if you were to die today? Seek the Lord and saviour Jesus Christ before it's too late. John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Hell is real and Heaven is also real. You don't want to spend an eternity in Hell torment without God. The only way to escape Hell is to follow Jesus Christ our Lord and saviour. Study the KJV Bible to know more and pray and seek until you find Jesus. Don't delay tomorrow might be too late. You are not promised even the next minute. Do it now
Hi Dr. Stephens - thank you for this video. I’ve seen that at home laser treatments have become more and more popular, with devices from Braun, Nood, etc. Are any of these at home devices safe for skin of color?
Thank you for the info, Doctor. I think will stick with chemical peels. They are way less risky, and I don't have time for potential irreversible damage.
This video makes me feel like I’m going to have to travel to big cities to find people with this type of experience. It’s a little disheartening but I understand that skin of color needs to be treated differently as we have more melanin. Thankfully I’m less than two hours away from Chicago and Detroit if need be.
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!! Recently visited plastic surgery geon for my Botox injections who years ago did my breast augmentation. I'm doing my research on people that look like me who had Morpheus 8. And as much as I want to have this procedure, I will hold up until I see more results. She's an excellent surgeon but I have to look out for my skin! In the meantime I'll let her do my lipo. I appreciate your knowledge and sharing with us. 🤩😃😃😃
Hi, I just found your video. I have a scar I want removed on my nose. I came across this thing called Co2 Laser. I wanted to know if that would be good for my dark skin. I mean it's laser. Your very educational video popped up.. now I'm sure I want to get this procedure done since laser is being used and the results looks pretty awesome. But most of the reviews are from Caucasians. I haven't seen 1 video from an African-Americans who's had this treatment...so I'm a bit hesitant.. this is my face we're talking about. .
Can you make a video on Halo and BBL for darker skin? My complexion is a V and want to make sure I’m safe with these choices. I’ve narrowed down to Dermatologists who have consistently great reviews but would like to be informed before consultations and making the final decision
Thank you for sharing this much needed info. I went to a derm before snd inquired about laser. They had the nerve to say lets "brighten your skin first" then we can do the laser treatment. I got out of there quick with that nonsense-
@@vivixwaldo4227 I have the HG500 from Hooga. It’s red light and Near infra red. When I do my back or legs I turn on both. When I do my face I turn off the NIR and there’s no heat.
During the video you recommend finding a qualified person to perform procedure. I live in Colorado and I have always done my research and sought out dermatologist recommended for melasma and hyperpigmentation and each of these top rated, recommended physicians, have made my melasma worse. If you have any recommendations on a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon in Colorado that specializes in ethnic skin and hyper pigmentation/melasma I would greatly appreciate it
Hi. So glad I found you. Wish I could go to you in person. 🙋🏽♀️What are your thoughts on facial rollers? Do they do anything? Are they worth purchasing?
What do you think about the lasers used at laseraway for the clear and brilliant facial? The nm are not the same as the ones you posted but the website says safe for all skin tones. Thank you for any insight 😊
I got my whole body done and it has been one of the best Investments for me. No more shaving, razor bumps/ingrowns. It’s helped with not increasing the HP and scarring in my bikini area.
My fiancé is Fitzpatrick IV, do you guys think I can order her CO2 laser for 6 sessions? She wanted that, but now I got into this issue of skin color and am afraid to purchase it for her. I also found a more expensive clinic with Yag laser, so I will probably go that route.
Thank you so much Dr Stephens for your bounty of information! I came to this channel looking for the effects of infrared and near infrared therapy on people of color. I went to a spa recently for treatment and I'm planning to buy my own IF/ NIF lighting system for home use. Please direct me to your channels or videos if you have info on this topic.
Red light therapy worsened my hyperpigmentation. Started with a dark patch on one side of my temple. After 2 months of sitting daily in front of a panel for 15 minutes, not only is the dark patch still there but I have another dark patch on the other side of my temple.
did you buy the panel your self or did you go to a business? Only reason I ask is I know they sell a lot of red light panels on the web and all light therapy is not created equal. Good luck with your journey!
I live in Florida, I think I need to come see you for laser treatment of melasma/hyperpigmentation. I've been using Cypsera for 3 months and Faded for 2 weeks, I see improvement but would love to see hyperpigmentation free face
Hello Dr. You are awesome, informative, and highly knowledgeable❤!!! My question is, I have an age or sunburn spot on my face. What is the name of the safe leaser treatment for dark skin. Thank you so much!!!
I get these are things people find unappealing and therefore want to fix them but the fact melanated skin darkens as a result of trauma isn't a disorder. Decribing it as a disorder further adds to the stigma of thar dark skin is "unhealthy" or dysfunctional. Hyperpigmentation isn't a disorder since it isn't harming the health of the skin. You saying it is a disorder to make people feel inclined to pay a lot of money to treat it. It's a superficial response.
Ok I’m glad you did this video I have 2 red and infrared led devices and I had actually got them for an injury I had to help soothe and heal but the skin benefits are an added plus for sure I have platinum led bio max and celluma pro I have had the platinum led bio max 900 for much longer than the celluma and I will say it does have some very great skin benefits as well as I feel energetic as well but I was always worried if it was ok for my skin as i have brown skin and yup I have had zero issues I notice it helps the skin heal faster too Now the celluma which is also a powerful device is really good too but the one I got does have blue lights mixed with red and infrared the blue was something I was really nervous about there are devices they sell that are red only and I wish I went with that one because I avoid the blue setting all together but even on the other settings the blue is still on at a lower dose so far I’m ok the skin in my face is improving very well wrinkles disappeared around the eye area skin is firm bright and even I must admit my skincare game is pretty stepped up too I do incorporate a lot of potent ingredients from different brands organic non gmo oat is my new number 1 favorite ingredient I use it in my double cleanse and masking very soothing and brightening and hydrating to the skin barrier I’m noticing a lot of skin benefits of organic oat/colloidal oat, alpha arbutin a great ingredient that keeps improving my overall evenness of the skin niacinamide and zinc y’all already know the benefits retinol I mean when you find the retinol that works for you at night stick with it , vitamin c ester brightening glow is amazing and I stepped up my spf game my relationship with sunscreen was and is a ruff one but I noticed a much better even glow with my skin since I have stepped it up all the ingredients I been using are really able to do there thing when the skin is protected from the sun I thought I was seeing things but aside from retinol and vitamin c spf is definitely the best thing for the skin especially if your gonna invest in devices like red light or skincare there is no point if you haven’t found your go to spf
I asked my dermatologist for laser treat for my Melasma on my upper lip and he told me flat out no, just told me it would worsen my Melasma. And gave me tretinoin instead but didn’t really educate me on it 😅
@@cynthiahernandez2166 lucky!!! My Melasma is currently doing pretty good now. I take vitamins, I use hydroquinone, retinol, exfoliators (BHA) and sunscreen. I stopped using the tretinoin this year because it was making me look all kinds of crazy lol.
@@cynthiahernandez2166 hi Cynthia.. could you please share the details of the laser that was used .. I desperately need to treat mine and very scared of rebound pigmentation or worsening it further.. I am a type4/5 .. thanks 😊
@@sonalisood1714 I'm sorry I don't know what type of laser was used but the place is called Cosmetique Total in Rotterdam. The practitioner is named Jennifer and it's super sweet and very knowledgeable.
I’m an esthetician & at my medispa we use a diode laser machine & treat many clients of types III, IV, & V just because of the demographic in which we’re located. We have many clients type VI who receive other services with us, however, if we would like them to receive laser treatments, would it be advisable to my bosses (one is a dermatologist) to invest in the Yag laser for optimal safety?
I recently purchased the Qure mask. On page 18 of the manual it had the Fitzpatrick skin scale. Now for people who had a rating of V or VI it advised not to use the Qure mask. My complexion is similar to Kelis or say Queen Latifah. I think I’m on the cusp between III and IV on the Fitzpatrick scale. What LED mask would you recommend for black skin. I know now from this video not to use the blue light. Thanks! Please advise.
Thank you for your video. I have pigmantation on my face. Some say, that "near-infrared LED" should not be used in that case. But some say the opposite. What would you advise? Can I use red+ near_infrared LED?
@dr alexis Steven’s, I hope to dear God you see this and reply. Iv booked an appointment consultation for CPL . I don’t live in an area where majority is us, I’m mixed race, but so worried now. Is CPL a no or ? I’ll also use this video to write down questions but I’m trying to treat hyperpigmentation & sun spots.
Dr. Stephens, I have had treatments with Neolase and and Aerolase, neither of which showed any result for my skin. I understand you saying those are good for skin of color , but currently I am in need of other laser options. My scars are old and and deep in the skin tissue.
So, i want to make sure I have this correct. The safest laser for POC's are ND yag 1064nm with a 650-microsecond laser, right? Question. How is it still 1064nm laser if it is a 650 microsecond laser?🤔
Is the Optilight solution safe for Black skin? My eye Dr suggested it for my dry eyes , but mentioned that it’s also good for cosmetic reasons. However, when I researched online I see that it’s not recommended for dark skin. I’m confused as I thought it was an IPL. Thanks in advance
I’m using Kligman’s formula prescribed by my Derm for my hyperpigmentation on my face. Is LED red light( home device) still safe to use while I’m on this treatment? Thank you for another informative video. I always learn so much from you 😘
My gorgeous brown skin means I never have to worry about having to get a tan, I get extra protection from the sun, and any cellulite is not not as obvious, but it is truly frustrating how careful we have to be to avoid hyperpigmentation! Especially when not enough derms or estheticians know how to work with our skin!
Thank you Dr Alexis!! You’re amazing at the way you explain things. I met with a clinic today for some hyper pigmentation I have. I wish I asked these questions about the laser but it just makes me smarter for next time❤️
I trusted my dermatologist, Dr. Dian, who specializes in skin of color, and she recommended a leather treatment. Unfortunately, the treatment has made the affected area wider and bigger. I am so disappointed and very, very sad. I cannot do anything to minimize it, and I cannot cover it with cosmetics.
She’s great at explaining but I wish she would take more time in to taking before and after pictures of her work cause she seems to mostly post herself on all her platforms
Are there Nd:YAG 1064nm lasers for skin tightening you can purchase to use at home? & do you have any recommendations for a good reputable brand or company that sells them?
Can you do a video about what laser treatments are safe for people prone to keloids. I would like to tighten and smooth my skin but I am afraid to try lasers due to my history of keloid formation from surgery and ear piercing. Loved the video very informative!💗
After using LED light I started noticing on my cheeks specks of light spots. So I stopped. What do I need to do to prevent the light spots. It be one thing if we're lighting my entire face completely. But no,I getting tiny dots lighting effect on my face. What do I need to do?
