What Makes Asian Skin Different? via Skin Inc

Men and women of Asian descent commonly experience certain skin conditions due to their skin’s adaptation to the climate and the pigment composition of their skin, according to a blog posting by the Dermatology Associates of Central Texas. Therefore, their skin tends to be oilier than Caucasian skin, and they are also known to have hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation depending on their skin’s melanin content. It is important for the esthetician to understand these skin differences to effectively treat them.

Hyperpigmentation

With a naturally higher hydration level in Asian skin, Asians show spots of hyperpigmentation, freckles and general unevenness of skin tone with age rather than wrinkles. Common skin disorders affecting many South Asians involving too much pigment include melasma and postinflammatory pigmentation.

Melasma involves tan or brown patches mostly over the face. Sun exposure and skin irritation can worsen melasma, and this condition is often seen in pregnancy.