Finding the right skincare essentials for Black women in Germany is not always easy. Products formulated for deeper skin tones are harder to find and the ones that do work are not always affordable. Since we are big on self care here at The Spot, I am sharing the exact products that have transformed my skin and where to get them in Germany, many at a discount at Shop Apotheke.1
Double-Cleansing is a Must
If you wear sunscreen in Germany, which you absolutely should, please double cleanse at the end of the day. It will remove the dirt of the day and break down the chemicals of your sunscreen more effectively.
How to double cleanse? Double cleansing simply means cleansing your skin before going in with a foaming cleanser. You can either use Dermalogica’s PreCleanse or, if you have combination skin like me, Micellar water. This is where I introduce you to Isana’s Micellar Water. Isana is the beauty brand of German drugstore Rossmann and while I usually go to DM for my skincare, Isana has really changed the game with this 2 euro find. Affordable skincare in Germany does not get better than this.
Cleansers
Skincare for oily to combination skin tends to be drying and unfortunately this is the case for the cleanser I want to highlight. La Roche Posay’s Purifying Foaming Cleanser is widely available in German pharmacies and drugstores. And purify it will. I have been using this for 2 years and while it is indeed drying, it will help with your acne. Be careful though, the longer you leave the foam on your face, the more your skin will itch
Moisturizers with Sunscreen
Let me clear up some misinformation. Yes, Black people need sunscreen too. No, we may not need SPF 50, but we should and do need to protect our skin. Why? Because Black people are more likely to die from skin cancer than their white counterparts, as they are often diagnosed later and Western medicine does not put enough focus on Black and Brown skin concerns. This is especially important in Germany where dermatologists are not always familiar with Black skin.
I am a sucker for combinations in skincare. I do not want 80 products when some of them could easily have been combined into one tiny serum bottle. This is why I love CeraVe’s Moisturising Facial Lotion with SPF 50, available at most German drugstores and pharmacies. Not only is it non-comedogenic, it also gives your skin a healthy glow making you look refreshed and ready for the day. It is additionally formulated with Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid, which will keep your skin moisturized during both the harsh German winter and summer.
Honorable Mentions for Your Skincare Routine in Germany
Skincare does not have to be a long list of a million different products, if you do want to counteract the dry results from the products above or if you want to get rid off some pimples, here are some honorable mentions.
The Ordinary AHA & BHA Peeling Solution
This peeling solution is the bomb. You should not use it if you have overly sensitive skin, but if you want to clear your pores and get rid of pimples without paying steep prices at the aesthetician, this product will give you exactly what you need for less than 10 euros. Available online at Shop Apotheke and iHerb Germany.
BHA, also known as Salicylic Acid, goes deep into the pore to get all the gunk out. Consider it a facial at home.
Cosrx’ Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
This one will save your skin after long German winter days when your skin is cracking and screaming for moisture. I love this especially during the colder months and whenever my hormones decide to switch things up and leave me with dry skin. Available at Shop Apotheke and iHerb Germany.
Adapalene Gel
Last but definitely the best will be Adapalene Gel in any variety. Last but definitely the best. Adapalene Gel in any variety. In Germany this cannot be bought over the counter and will need to be prescribed by your dermatologist. Adapalene is a retinoic acid, which is a more potent form of retinol. What can it do? Better question is what can it not do. Fine lines, wrinkles, acne, hyperpigmentation, all of it.
A few things to keep in mind. Never use Adapalene in the morning. Always wear sunscreen while using it. Try the sandwich method to prevent your skin from drying out too quickly. And do not, I repeat do not, use Vitamin C and any retinol containing product at the same time.
- This post is not sponsored and I have no business agreement with any of the brands or companies mentioned. All products listed are ones I personally use and genuinely love. This post is purely informative and reflects my own experience.
I am not a dermatologist or medical aesthetician.
Skincare is very individual and what works for my skin may not work for yours. Please always consult a medical professional or dermatologist for your personal skincare needs. ↩︎