Because of darker skin's ability to hold onto pigment, using acne treatments that include ingredients that are too harsh — like retinol, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid — may result in more inflammation and potential scarring.
"We hold onto brown-coloured blemishing like a sponge, which is why we need to rely on medications and treatments that not only are anti-inflammatory to treat active acne, but also implement ingredients that brighten and lighten the skin," Dr. Rita Linkner, MD, of Spring Street Dermatology in New York City, told POPSUGAR. For this reason, people with darker skin have to be a little more particular about their acne treatment products.