General

Do I have “Brown Skin”?

If you are of African, Asian, Latin, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Native, or mixed ethnic decent you probably have brown skin.  Brown skin is skin that has a naturally warm, glowing complexion and ranges in shade from tapioca to cinnamon to deep chocolate brown. Brown  skin contains increased levels of the pigment, melanin as compared to other skin types. The amount of melanin among different people with brown skin can vary dramatically and depends greatly upon your heritage.

How long before I see a visible result from using Rx for Brown Skin?

The amount of time it will takes to see results will depend on your concerns and their severity as well as the products which you are using.  Many of our clients tell us they see results within a few days of using Rx for Brown skin products. However, for optimal results you should use any new product at least 4-6 weeks. It takes this long for new cell turnover. Visible differences in your skin become much clearer after this time frame.
A special exception is the Virtual Peel Brightening Mask and Booster kit.  Most individuals experience visible results immediately after the first application.

How often should I use my Rx for Brown Skin Products?

Your personal use of the products will depend on which line you are using and your skins level of adaptation to that product.  Please see the below chart for our recommendation on general product usage:

In what order do I use my Rx for Brown Skin Products?

Always start by removing any dirt, environmental pollutants or makeup with your cleanser. Follow by adding another layer of beneficial Rx ingredients with your toner. The next series of products depends on the time of day and your perfect Rx.
In the morning, first cleanse and tone, and then apply the Special Prescription products you are using (for example, Naturally Flawless).  Afterwards, apply Protect and Defend Moisturizing Sunscreen If you feel that your skin is very dry you may also want to apply an Rx moisturizer afterwards.
In the evening cleanse, tone, apply Special Prescription treatment.   If using Absolute Radiance, apply it first to freshly cleansed, toned skin and then apply Naturally Flawless Botanical Brightener. Lastly, apply your Rx moisturizer.

What causes acne?

Acne breakouts are usually linked to excessive levels of oil production in your sebaceous glands. These oil glands are part of a hair shaft which forms a unit called the sebaceous follicle. Sometimes, the skin cells that line the follicle begin to shed more rapidly and to stick together. When cells mix with the increased amount of oil being produced, they can plug the opening of the follicle (sometimes called a pore). Meanwhile, the oil glands continue to produce oil, and the follicle swells causing blackheads and whiteheads.  In addition, bacteria begin to multiply rapidly in the clogged follicle (pore).  These bacteria produce irritating substances that can cause inflammation. Sometimes, the wall of the follicle bursts, spreading inflammation into the surrounding skin causing pimples and cysts.

Is it harmful to squeeze my pimples?

Yes. You should never pick or squeeze any sort of acne lesion (blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules or cyst).  When you pick or squeeze your acne lesion you force infected material deeper into the skin, causing additional inflammation and also possible scarring.

Can anything be done about dark marks (sometimes called hyperpigmentation, discolorations, blemishes or scars) caused by acne?

Hyperpigmentation is best prevented by getting rid of acne as quickly as possible.  After your acne is treated, and depending on the severity of the marks left behind, it is often possible to reduce acne discoloration with over the counter treatments.  The Rx for Brown Skin line offers Naturally Flawless Advanced Botanical Brightener , a hydroquinone free treatment that helps to even skin tone and brighten dark discolorations.  Additionally, the use of Absolute Radiance 2 or 3 times a week at bedtime will also help diminish dark marks.  However, for more severe acne hyperpigmentation, dermatologists can use various methods to improve the appearance of your skin, but the treatment will be individualized for the specific patient. Chemical peels, dermabrasion or laser abrasion are all possible treatments that can be used to reduce more severe discoloration.  It is important that the acne be well controlled before any procedure is used to alleviate discoloration.

Is it normal to experience some dryness when I begin using the products?

Some flaking and dryness is normal as your skin becomes accustomed to certain products within the Rx for Brown Skin product line.  The skin will experience a grace period while assessing the desired level of hydration and moisture needed.   If you have not used products containing Glycolic Acid (contained in Bright &Even regimen and Absolute Radiance Intensive Exfoliating Serum) or Salicylic Acid (contained in Bright & Clear regimen) before, please begin use of these products slowly.  We recommend you start by using the product a few days a week in the evening. Then increase your usage slowly as your skin adapts.   You can apply more moisturize and/or institute the use of the Virtual Peel serum to combat any dryness and flaking you encounter.

What is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is a fruit acid or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) derived from sugar cane.  It is considered a natural product and is often used as a skin exfoliant and moisturizer.  Glycolic acid reacts with the upper layer of your skin (the epidermis), weakening the binding properties of the lipids that hold the dead skin cells together. The outer layer of your skin "dissolves" revealing the underlying healthier skin. The result is a much-smoother skin surface and a more youthful appearance.

What are the percentages of glycolic , salicylic, and lactic acids in all Bright and Even and Bright and Clear products?

The percentages of glycolic and salicylic acids are as follows:
Bright and Even cleanser - 5% glycolic acid,
Bright and Even moisturizer - 5% glycolic acid,
Bright and Clear cleanser - 2% salicylic acid,
Bright and Clean toner - 5% glycolic 0.5% salicylic acid,
Bright and Clear moisturizer - 0.75% salicylic acid,
Absolute Radiance Serum - 5% lactic acid, 1% glycolic acid

Can I use Rx for Brown Skin in combination with other acne treatments?

If you are under a doctor’s care, please consult with the doctor first so he or she can make that determination.  If you are using over the counter acne products you can combine Rx for Brown Skin products with those products, just be careful not to overdo it.  Rx for brown skin products are free of fragrance, lanolin, alcohol, propylene glycol, and dyes which are all ingredients that can be harmful to skin of color.  The absence of these ingredients allows our customers easy integration into their current regimens.  While this is ok, the Rx for Brown Skin collections work the best when used together as a system.

Can I use more than one of the Rx for Brown Skin lines at once?

Yes, Rx for Brown Skin products were designed with the idea that each person has special skin care needs.  For that reason we encourage you to combine our skin care lines as you see fit.  As you observe and learn to listen to what your skin is telling you, you can adjust your skin care routine to address your skins specific needs and fine tune your treatment as your skin directs you. You may find that using 1, 2 or all 3 of the Rx for Brown Skin Collections will help you meet the changing needs of your brown skin.

Can men use Rx for Brown Skin?

Yes, Rx for Brown Skin can be used by men as well as women.  Razor bumps and the resulting patches of hyperpigmentation can be a major concern for all men, especially those with skin of color.  The Bright and Even Collection is excellent for men who shave with a razor. This skin exfoliating collection helps shed dead skin cells, thus achieving a closer shave and minimizing in-grown hairs. In addition, the Bright and Even collection is designed to help with hyperpigmentation.

Can people with Caucasians skin use Rx for Brown Skin?

Yes, although Rx for Brown Skin is specially formulated for skin of color, it will also be effective and beneficial for people with lower levels of melanin in their skin. Bright and Clear is perfect for addressing acne prone or combination skin.  Bright and Healthy is great for anyone extremely sensitive or dry. Bright and Even is a great collection for the Caucasian skin concerned with sun damage, brown spots, and aging skin.

What is Bright Skin Complex?

Bright Skin Complex is a powerful formula developed by Dr. Susan Taylor for use in the Rx for Brown Skin Line. It is a combination of hyaluronic acid, soy and pomegranate used to promote smooth and even skin tone and restore radiant skin. (See “Brown Skin Care” for more on these components)

Are your products natural/ organic?

Our products are not all 100% natural or organic.  However, all Rx for Brown Skin products are free of ingredients such as fragrances, dyes, propylene glycol, lanolin, alcohol, and other chemicals.  They are ingredients in many mainstream skincare products that are all potential irritants and have the potential to lead to irritation of your skin, as well as pigmentation problems or the development of dark marks.

Are your products tested on animals?

No, none of the Rx for Brown Skin products are tested on animals.

Do you have an acne spot treatment?

At this time we do not have a spot treatment, but the Bright and Clear toner works well for areas prone to breakouts.   Rx for Brown Skin is currently working to develop a spot treatment for the future.

Does Rx for Brown Skin have travel size products?

Yes, all the products contained in each of the 3 starter kits are travel size products.

Why don't you make a higher SPF, like a 30, for the face?

An SPF 15 sunscreen provides adequate protection for most individuals with brown skin.  To ensure that women of color use a sunscreen Rx for Brown Skin produces a SPF 15 UVA/UVB sunscreen that does not leave a white or grey residue behind.  When we can create an SPF 30 with the same aesthetic we will offer it to meet the needs of customers who desire additional sun protection.

Will you be coming out with a sun block for use on the entire body?

Yes, please stay tuned.

Why don't you make a cleansing/purifying mask for oilier skins?

Instead of a purifying mask, Dr Taylor had designed the Virtual Peel Brightening Mask and Booster Kit to cleanse deep down and exfoliate.

Product Use

Can I combine the use of different Rx for Brown Skin product lines?

Absolutely! We encourage you to mix and match. Skin changes as will your treatment needs. Week to week, month to month, and year to year, you may need different regimens.  Rx for Brown Skin products are designed with the idea that each person has special skin care needs.  For that reason we encourage you to combine our skin care lines as you see fit.  As you observe and learn to listen to what your skin is telling you, you can adjust your skin care routine to address your skins specific needs and fine tune your treatment as your skin directs you. You may find that using 1, 2 or all 3 of the Rx for Brown Skin Collections will help you meet the changing needs of your skin.

Which products are safe to use in my eye area?

At this time none of the Rx for Brown Skin products are specifically designed for use in the eye area.  However both the Bright & Healthy and the Naturally Flawless are safe for use in the eye area.
In the Fall, Rx for Brown Skin will also be introducing an eye cream that is ideal for the eye area.  An eye serum will follow in early 2009.

Which products do you recommend for dark circles and puffiness around my eyes?

Rx for Brown Skin will be launching a fantastic eye cream in October. Check back soon!

Will I  have to use Naturally Flawless forever, or, once I'm happy, will I be able to stop using this particular product?

Rx for Brown skin products are cosmeceuticals. That means they are cosmetic products that have the best, most innovative scientific research and technology involved in making them. However, just like diet and exercise, you need to continue with them to maintain the results you’ve achieved.   In the beginning, apply Naturally Flawless Botanical Brightener twice daily in order to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and other types of skin discoloration.  You should also use Protect and Defend Moisturizing sunscreen in order to combat the appearance of new discolorations brought on by the sun’s rays.  Once your desired results have been reached, you can reduce your use of Naturally Flawless to once a day or a few nights a week. This continued use will aid in the maintenance of your desired skin tone.

Can I use Protect and Defend on my body?

Yes, although Protect and Defend has been designed to be gentle enough for facial use, it can also be used on your body.

Do I still need to use a sun block after applying my Rx for Brown Skin moisturizer?

Yes, Rx for Brown Skin moisturizer does not contain sun block and you will still need to apply a UVA/UVB sunscreen to your skin before the application of your moisturizer.  As the Protect and Defend Moisturizing Sunscreen contains a moisturizer, you may even wish to use this product in place of your moisturizer in the morning.

Order Information

Is it safe to use my credit card? Is your website secure?

Yes, it is safe to use your credit card at Rxforbrownskin.com.   At Rx for Brown Skin we value the security of customer information.  Our website is secured by a GoDaddy.com Web Server Certificate. Transactions on the site are protected with up to 256-bit Secure Sockets Layer encryption.  You can see this certification on the lower left hand of our homepage.  You can also verify the security of our site throughout the purchasing process by noting that the “http” has changed to “https” in the address portion of your screen.

How will I know if my order was successful?

Once you have completed your order, an order confirmation screen will appear containing the details of your order as well as your online order number.  Please print a copy of your confirmation or copy down your order number for safe keeping.  A copy of this page will also be sent to the email address you provided with your order.  Please be aware that if your computer has spam blocking software this email may not be accepted by your mailbox. 

How will I know once my order ships?

Once your order ships you will receive a shipping confirmation email containing the tracking number that coincides with your order.