This latest search started off on accident.  I just needed something to lighten a few leftover blemishes acquired during Summer of ‘07 when my face decided to erupt and ruin the healthy complexion I had prior.  After scouring the internet, it seemed like the options were limted – makeup or lightening cream.  Makeup was fine but definitely no lightening cream; didn’t want that drastic from black-to-ghost look Sammy Sosa has been rocking lately:

Nope, just wanted a gentle, simple moisuritzer that did the following:

1. Prevented Acne
2. Killed potential acne
3. Lightened the blemishes
4. Evened out Skin Tone
5. Hydrated
6. Moisturized.

As you might have guessed, this super moisturizer 1) may not exist or 2) is very expensive therefore may as well not exist.

Or so I thought.

Below is a preliminary list of the top 3 facial moisturizers available for darker complexions.  All three are can be purchased at most local drugstores and are sold for under $10.  Quality  and affordability = bliss.  Check them out:

1. Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Moisturizer

The Aveeno brand is well known and has been around for years.  Growing up, my mom always made us use the Cleansing Bar to wash our faces (followed by Vaseline for moisture…we were the shiniest kids in school) and our skin was always appear clear and supple.  The best thing about this moisturizer is that it’s based on Soy, which has Vitamin E and other antioxidants. It also has salicylic acid which is one of the main components in any acne fighting facial product.

2. Ambi Even & Clear Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30

Ambi is a line of skin-care products that’s specifically geared towards people of color, yet I don’t know any one who actually uses it.  The skin of the women in the commercials look STUNNING so if that’s what is working for them, we should all rush to CVS asap.  This moisturizer’s biggest strength is in its EvenBlend complex – a combination of Vitamins C & E  and Soy – that helps smooth skin tone.  It also has SPF 30 in it to protect the skin from the sun.  Yes, natural melanin does protect dark complexions but its a total myth that people of color don’t need sunscreen.  Skin cancer does not discriminate! Besides, Iman recommends SPF.

3. Neutrogena Visibly Even Daily Moisturizer, SPF 15 or 30

Gabrielle Union and Whitney Houston have both mentioned using Neutrogena cleansers – in fact, Gabby is a spokesperson for the company – but I haven’t heard of any buzz about this moisturizer in particular.  It’s similar to Ambi in that it relies mainly on soy to decrease blotchiness and even out tone and also contains SPF but nothing explicit about acne prevention.

SPLURGE ITEM: Bring in the Moisture Face Lotion by Carol’s Daughter

For $25, you could also check out Bring in the Moisture Face Lotion by Carol’s Daughter.  Lots of celebs have already endorsed Carol’s Daughter already but this particualar item, Beyonce mentioned as one of her favorites.  According to the website, it has antioxidant-rich Acai Berry and Vitamins A and E  as well as Willow Bark to help keep a clear, even and healthy looking complexion.  It also contains Aloe Vera, Jojoba and Manketti oils to “keep skin soft while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”   No mention of any products that speak to acne particularly but still, sounds good.

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So, afiive readers – what do you use to keep your face looking fresh and healthy?  You a die-hard Ambi fan? Or do you use something not mentioned on the list? Got a product straight from the continent that you swear by? Share in the comments section! Enquiring minds want to know.

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