Frequently Asked Questions
General
- Do I have "Brown Skin"?
- How long before I see a visible result from using Rx for Brown Skin?
- How often should I use my Rx for Brown Skin products?
- In what order do I use my Rx for Brown Skin products?
- What causes acne?
- Is it harmful to squeeze my pimples?
- Can anything be done about dark marks (sometimes called hyperpigmentation, discolorations, blemishes or scars) caused by acne?
- Is it normal to experience some dryness when I begin using the products?
- What is Glycolic Acid?
- Can I use Rx for Brown Skin in combination with other acne treatments?
- Can men use Rx for Brown Skin?
- Can people with Caucasian skin use Rx for Brown Skin?
- What is Bright Skin Complex?
- Are your products natural/organic?
- Are your products tested on animals?
- Why don't you make a higher SPF, like a 30, for the face?
Product Use
- Can I combine the use of different Rx for Brown Skin product lines?
- Which products are safe to use in my eye area?
- Which products do you recommend for dark circles and puffiness around my eyes?
- Will I have to use Naturally Flawless forever, or, once I'm happy, will I be able to stop using this particular product?
- Can I use Age Block UV Shield SPF15 on my body?
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.
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:
| Product Line | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Absolute Radiance Intensive Exfoliating Serum | Start slowly, use the product 3 nights a week for the first 2-3 weeks (apply to a completely dry face). As your skin adjusts, application can be increased one day a week. Product should be used in the evenings. |
| Age Block UV Shield SPF15 | Every day in the morning. It should be the final product you apply. As sunscreen can wear off, it is recommended you reapply as needed throughout the day. |
| Naturally Flawless Botanical Brightener | Start slowly using the product 3 to 4 times per week for the first 2-3 weeks (apply to a dry face). As your skin adjusts, application can be increased one day a week. Apply before your moisturizer or sunscreen. |
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 a gentle 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 Rx treatment products you are using (for example, Naturally Flawless). Afterwards, apply Age Block UV Shield SPF15.
In the evening, cleanse, tone, apply the Rx treatment. If using Absolute Radiance, apply it first to freshly cleansed, toned skin and then apply Naturally Flawless Botanical Brightener. Lastly, apply your 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 and Even regimen and Absolute Radiance Intensive Exfoliating Serum) 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 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.
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 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.
Can people with Caucasian's 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.
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.
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.
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 products 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 the Naturally Flawless Botanical Brightener is safe for use in the eye area.
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 3-4 times per week in order to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and other types of skin discoloration. You should also use Age Block UV Shield SPF15 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 Age Block UV Shield SPF15 on my body?
Yes, although Age Block has been designed to be gentle enough for facial use, it can also be used on your body.
