My mom would send me back into the house, to apply more lotion on my body because I looked “ashy” and would ensure that I was well-greased before leaving the house for school. I am so glad my ‘ashy’ days are over because I understand my dry skin as an African, and so will you. 

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Welcome to the first part of the series on dry skin in Africans and understanding the unique factors affecting it. We will understand the untold stories and public secrets of African dry skin, which will empower you with the knowledge to manage your dry skin, as an African.

I want to ask if you’ve ever used body lotion pumps in a day, and yet you continue to struggle with flaky, tight, and possibly itchy skin. If yes, this post and episode will explore the distinct characteristics of African skin and kick-start your journey to radiant skin.

In the African community, dry skin can be culturally stigmatizing, dry skin on a dark skin gives a grey or ashen appearance and is often referred to as “ashy skin”. Because of its physical look, dry skin is more evident on African skin and has greater cultural value. Daily moisturization is regarded as a cultural standard in the personal care routines of Africans.