Episode 40: Hydration & Nutrition: Healing Melanin Skin from the Inside Out

In this episode of Skin Intelligent Sundays, we break down the truth about exfoliation for melanin-rich skin. Overdoing it can damage your barrier and cause dark spots, so the key is being gentle. Learn how to exfoliate the right way using enzymes and mild acids that support—not strip—your skin’s natural renewal process. Key Points: Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and improve texture — but overdoing it weakens the barrier. Melanin-rich skin needs gentle exfoliation to avoid inflammation and hyperpigmentation. The skin naturally sheds every ~28 days; exfoliation should support, not rush, this process.   Best Practices: Use enzyme exfoliants (papaya, pineapple) once a week. Choose low-strength acids like lactic or mandelic acid over glycolic. https://amzn.to/3L0vyGn https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001VMJSCW/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_ZHGME5ZWV7Y6GS0TBTDM?linkCode=ml1&tag=111190c-20&linkId=3fbe30be4f5f4daf1ed07bc2779a7d2d Avoid harsh scrubs that can cause microtears and dark spots. If your barrier is compromised, pause exfoliation until your skin recovers.   Takeaway: Gentle is powerful. The goal isn’t to strip — it’s to smooth, strengthen, and support your skin’s natural renewal process. Purchase my book here: https://amzn.to/3JhXogM Listen: 🎧 Skin Intelligent Sundays Podcast 📅 Sundays @7PM EST