My Black is NOT Cracking.

#URBAN DICTIONARY: #Black Don’t Crack: The skin of African Americans does not wrinkle and show age as much as individuals from other ethnic backgrounds.

Why did I choose the name “My Black is Not Cracking?”  Well, for years I had heard that phrase.  Well into my 30’s I would get carded and there would be a surprising response upon inspection of my driver’s license.  If the guy carding me happened to be African American, I would often hear that phrase.  “Black don’t crack.”  I used to think it was funny.  And it felt like a compliment.  I mean who doesn’t want to be mistaken for someone younger?   

And that is the issue that bugs me the most now.  Why are we all so obsessed with being mistaken for someone younger?  With Anti-Aging? Why is it not okay to be the age that you are?  Why do we live in such a youth obsessed culture? I totally understand that looking good makes us feel good, but what I want to get to is “feeling good, making us look good!”

I don’t mean to be the bearer of bad news, but black most certainly does crack.  It might crack slowly, but it cracks!  I’m watching it crack…daily.  And I feel bad about it, but should I?  Yes, it is true the skin of African Americans doesn’t wrinkle as fast as it does for those of other ethnic backgrounds.  But, as good as we may look on the outside, we disproportionately suffer from hypertension, diabetes and obesity. 

Now not to get too deep into the science of why black skin doesn’t crack as fast, in a nutshell it’s because of the type of melanin found in our skin.  We are walking around with natural sunscreen on.  And the darker our skin, the more UV protection we get.  Further, we have a type of collagen in our skin that also helps prevent sun damage.

I found this in an article in the paper some months back, that Skin specialist and aesthetician Bianca Estelle, also states that we typically have a higher oil content, so we have a natural skin hydration system that makes black skin look hydrated and smoother.  In the same article, Dr. Almaani stated that although our skin does well with sun, it is still prone to discoloration, pigmentation issues from sun exposure and hormonal effects.

Another doctor, Boris Paskhover, again, same article, who is a facial plastic surgeon stated that black faces also maintain structural support longer.  We are born with denser bones in our face that don’t break down as quickly as other ethnicities.

So, those are the reasons that our faces take longer to crack.  In addition, we are less prone to osteoporosis.  But what I really want to address is not just how we look, but how we feel. (Inside and out)  Why was I so devastated when I looked in the mirror one day and pretty much every day since? (with my glasses on!)  When did my face shape turn into a square?

Why are we obsessed with anti-aging, instead of aging well, with style, grace and dignity? Why is the anti-aging industry revenue projected to be some $400 BILLION, by 2027? Why do many seem to be more concerned with their face, than their bodies, minds and spirit? 

That is what this is about.  The title was just to get your attention.  Intrigued?  Offended?  Curious?  Whatever.  You got here.  I hope you will stick around because this is for all women AND those that love them.