The Skintelligent Sundays

Menopause changes more than your mood — it changes your skin.
 
From dryness and loss of elasticity to unexpected breakouts and pigmentation shifts, this natural life stage can feel like your skin is rewriting its entire story. And for melanin-rich skin? Those changes can be even more noticeable.
 
In this episode of Skintelligent Sundays, I’m breaking down:
✨ What actually happens to your skin during menopause
✨ How hormonal shifts impact melanin-rich skin differently
✨ Hydration, barrier repair, and sunscreen strategies for lasting radiance
✨ Gentle, effective ways to address pigmentation without irritation
✨ Lifestyle habits that keep your glow from the inside out
 
Your beauty doesn’t expire — it evolves. Let’s navigate this season together with confidence and the right tools for your skin’s new needs.
 
Resources & Recommendations Mentioned in This Episode:
Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient often called a “natural alternative to retinol.”
 
Products with Bakuchiol worth considering:
 
Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Serum – hydrating + smoothing.
https://amzn.to/3HmbnBb
 
The Inkey List Bakuchiol – affordable, lightweight option.
https://amzn.to/45j5rSL
 
OLEHENRIKSEN Goodnight Glow Retin-ALT Sleeping Crème – bakuchiol + AHAs for overnight renewal.
https://amzn.to/4maYHMw
 
Hydrating Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
https://amzn.to/47ogF9L
 
Barrier Support: Products with ceramides, peptides, or fatty acids
https://amzn.to/4ft1XjM
 
SPF for Melanin-Rich Skin: Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 or EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46
https://amzn.to/4lmMYJw
 
Pigmentation Care: Vitamin C serum, niacinamide, or licorice root extract
https://amzn.to/4oAnFqu
 
 
💌 Let’s Connect:
Follow me on Instagram: @Skinmaven2025
Subscribe to my LinkedIn Newsletter
Check out my book: Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide Amazon Link
https://a.co/d/4FzxqDH
BONUS: Download Menopause Skin Barrier Cheat Sheet Here: 
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OSLP99__MFI4cq65EmIpWIGpjxAbsAqx/view?usp=sharing
 
🎧 Listen now and share this episode with a friend who needs to hear it!

Textured skin doesn’t have to be your forever story. In this episode of Skintelligent Sundays, we’re diving deep into how retinol can help smooth textured, bumpy, or uneven skin—especially for melanin-rich complexions. I’m breaking down what it is, how to use it without irritating your skin, and what products pair well (or not at all) with it. Whether you’re brand new to retinol or ready to get back into it the right way, this episode is your glow guide.
What You’ll Learn:
✨ What causes textured skin
✨ What retinol is and how it works
✨ How to introduce retinol into your routine without damage
✨ Common mistakes to avoid with melanin-rich skin
✨ My personal favorite supporting ingredients
Timestamps:
0:00 – Welcome & intro
1:10 – What is textured skin?
2:40 – How retinol works on bumpy and uneven skin
4:15 – Why melanated skin needs a gentle approach
5:30 – How to introduce retinol (the smart way)
7:20 – What to avoid while using retinol
8:30 – My tips + reminders for melanated skin
9:50 – Final thoughts & how to stay connected
Products Mentioned:
✅ [Paula’s Choice 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment]
https://amzn.to/3UH9K3T
✅ [La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum – Gentle for Beginners]
https://amzn.to/4opDobN( My Favorite)
✅ [CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum – Great for PIH & Texture]
https://amzn.to/45ev2e7
✅ [EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 – Non-comedogenic & brown-skin approved]
https://amzn.to/4fjEb9NResources & Links:
📘 Grab your copy of my book: [ Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide]
https://a.co/d/iSLTYQm📲 Connect on Instagram: @Skinmaven2025
💌 Subscribe to the newsletter: LinkedIn 
Don’t forget:
⭐️ Leave a review if today’s episode helped you
🔁 Share with a friend who’s struggling with textured skin
🎤 DM me your skincare questions for a future episode!

In this quick but powerful bonus episode, I’m diving into one of the most requested topics—how to properly use serums and spot treatments on melanin-rich skin.
 
We’re breaking down the difference between the two, how to use them without triggering irritation or uneven tone, and what ingredients are actually safe and effective for correcting dark marks, post-acne scars, and more.
 
🔑 What You’ll Learn:What makes a serum different from a spot treatment
Which ingredients target hyperpigmentation without bleaching
My favorite gentle actives for melanin skin
How to layer your products without causing irritation
Spot treatment mistakes I see way too often
 
✨ Ingredient Spotlights:Niacinamide – calms inflammation & fades dark spots
Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid or THD Ascorbate) – brightens skin tone
Azelaic Acid – fights acne and reduces post-inflammatory marks
Tranexamic Acid – great for stubborn pigmentation
Licorice Root Extract – gentle brightening agent
Sulfur – targets active acne
Salicylic Acid – decongests pores and helps with oil control
📘 FREE E-BOOK:
As a thank-you for helping us hit our 25th episode milestone, I’m extending access to my e-book for a limited time:
🧡 Download Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide – Free Preview (link in episode 25)
 
🛍️ Product Recommendations:
(Non-sponsored, safe for melanin-rich skin)
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
https://www.ulta.com/p/niacinamide-10-zinc-1-pimprod2007102
Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum
https://www.target.com/p/naturium-vitamin-c-complex-serum-1-fl-oz/-/A-80129682
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
https://www.paulaschoice.com/10-azelaic-acid-booster/8010.html
Topicals Faded Serum (includes tranexamic acid + licorice root)
https://mytopicals.com/products/faded
Peace Out Acne Healing Dots (with Salicylic Acid)
https://www.sephora.com/product/peace-out-acne-healing-dots-P421240
 
💛 Stay Connected with Me:
📲 Instagram: @Skinmaven2025
💼 LinkedIn: Lakischa Morgan 
🎙️ Skintelligent Sundays Podcast – New episodes every Sunday + bonus drops!
 

We’ve officially made it to Episode 25 of Skintelligent Sundays—and I’m celebrating YOU! Thank you for tuning in, sharing, and being part of this beautiful skincare community.
In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into Skincare Essentials for Mature Melanin Skin. Because aging is a blessing—and our skin deserves to glow gracefully through every stage. I’m sharing my must-haves for healthy, hydrated, and radiant mature melanin-rich skin.
📚 Special Giveaway – TODAY ONLY!
To celebrate this milestone, I’m giving away my ebook:
Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide – FOR FREE!
 
Grab your copy now:
👉 https://read.amazon.com/sample/B0DZ2XPVTF?clientId=share
 
Available today only, while supplies last.
💬 Let’s Connect
Enjoying the show? Don’t forget to:
✅ Share this episode with a friend
✅ Leave a review or rating
✅ Tag me on social @Skinmaven2025 when you download your ebook!
 
Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to the next 25 episodes and beyond!
💛 Love the skin you’re in. – Morgan

In this special bonus drop, I'm sharing my personal experience with microneedling and diving into what people with melanin-rich skin should know before booking their first appointment.
 
Whether you’re dealing with texture, scarring, or hyperpigmentation, this episode gives you real facts, practical do’s and don’ts, and the confidence to make informed skincare decisions.
💉 Microneedling can be powerful — but only when done right.
 
🧠 What You’ll Learn:
What microneedling is and how it works
Why melanin-rich skin requires special consideration
My personal results from my recent micro needling  treatment
Biggest mistakes to avoid before and after micro needling
How to protect your glow post-treatment
 
🔥 Mentioned in This Episode:
SPF Finishing Mist – COMING SOON!( Check previous show notes to sign up to be a tester)
Lightweight, hydrating, no white cast. The perfect post-treatment sun protection for melanin-rich skin. Stay tuned for the official launch!
Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide
Written by yours truly!
📚 Available on Amazon and Shopify
Your no-fluff guide to real results for melanin-rich skin.
 
📅 Don’t Miss:
🎉 Episode 25: The Celebration Episode drops this Sunday!
We’re celebrating our 25th episode with reflections, next steps, and special surprises. Set your reminder!
 
💬 Let’s Connect:
Follow @Skinmaven2025 on IG
Join the conversation on LinkedIn: Lakischa Morgan
Subscribe + Leave a review to support melanin-centered skincare education.

In this episode, I keep it real about hormonal breakouts—why they happen, when they hit hardest, and what you can do to manage them without losing your mind (or your glow). From my own experience with cystic acne before cycle time, consistent ways to care for melanin-rich skin, this is a must-listen if your skin acts up monthly like clockwork.
 
What You’ll Learn:
✨ What hormonal acne really is (and why it loves your chin and jawline)
✨ How your cycle affects your skin week by week
✨ My personal experience with painful breakouts & how to manages them
✨ The top ingredients and habits for hormonal skin balance
✨ Why giving yourself grace is part of the healing process
 
Mentioned in This Episode:
📘 Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide —https://a.co/d/5CFk8fQ 
💦 Finishing Mist with SPF — ComingSoon!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfS9YJloxBPj9_M7T9weEfHqAvMdGBDJA8owFPgTGu5JmG1Aw/viewform
📱 Follow @Skinmaven2025 on Instagram for more tips & product drops
If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who’s tired of the hormonal rollercoaster. Don’t forget to rate & review Skintelligent Sundays wherever you listen—and subscribe so you never miss an episode.
Let’s Connect:
🔗 Instagram: @Skinmaven2025
🔗 LinkedIn: Lakischa Morgan
🔗 Join the Skintelligent List for exclusive tips, drops & freebies

Think you can shrink your pores? Let’s clear that up—literally. In this episode, I’m breaking down the real science behind pore size and what actually works to make them look smaller, especially for melanin-rich skin.
 
You’ll learn:
✨ What pores really are and why they matter
✨ The truth about “shrinking” pores
✨ Top ingredients and habits that make a difference
✨ Why sunscreen is a non-negotiable (yes, even for melanated skin)
✨ How to love your texture and embrace real skin
 
🧴 COMING SOON: My SPF Finishing Mist — a soft-scented, glow-boosting, no-white-cast mist made for all skin types, with melanin in mind.
→ Make sure you’re on the list for the drop!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfS9YJloxBPj9_M7T9weEfHqAvMdGBDJA8owFPgTGu5JmG1Aw/viewform
 
📖 Book Mentioned:
Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide — My skincare guide created specifically for Black and brown skin, full of real advice, routines, and results.
→ Grab your copy here: https://a.co/d/35Ke26z
 
📌 Stay Connected:
→ Follow me on IG: @Skinmaven2025
→ Learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skinhealth/
→ Subscribe so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, I break down the must-haves for summer skincare with a special focus on melanin-rich skin. From sunscreen that won’t leave a cast to why water-based moisturizers are your best friend, this episode is a step-by-step guide to prepping your glow — intentionally and unapologetically. Tune in as we prep for the heat, for the culture.
 
What You’ll Learn:
Why sunscreen is non-negotiable for melanin-rich skin
How to pick the right cleanser for sweat + sun
What type of moisturizer won’t clog your pores this summer
The best way to exfoliate without overdoing it
Skin-protective fashion tips (yes, hats count!)
The water + skin glow connection
 
Recommended Products:
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (gel for normal-to-oily, cream for dry)
Naturium Niacinamide Gel Cream 5%
Tatcha The Water Cream (luxury option)
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel (drugstore favorite)
Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant (once a week max in summer!)
 
Mentioned in the episode:
Episode 19: Best Sunscreens for Deeper Tones
Episode 20: Sun Exposure & Hyperpigmentation
 
Subscribe + Listen:
📍 New episodes every Sunday at 7PM EST
🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts + more
 

In this episode, I am breaking down the often-overlooked connection between sun exposure and hyperpigmentation—especially for melanin-rich skin. From explaining why melanin isn’t a sunscreen, to calling out the sneaky areas we forget to protect (like the neck, chest, and hands), this bonus episode brings clarity, solutions, and a whole lot of Skintelligent glow.
 
What You’ll Learn:
What hyperpigmentation really is and why it lingers
How sun exposure makes dark spots darker
Why melanin alone isn’t enough protection
Simple tips to protect your glow daily
My favorite melanated-friendly sunscreens
 
Mentioned Products:
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30/45
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+
 
Bonus Resources:
📘 Love: A Melanated Skincare Guide – now available on Amazon:
https://a.co/d/dQYSmeC
🎧 Subscribe to Skintelligent Sundays onPodbean, Apple or Spotify for weekly glow-up guidance
📩 Want personalized product tips? DM Lakischa or connect on LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/skinhealth/
 

Not all sunscreens are created equal—especially when it comes to deeper complexions. In this episode, I’m breaking down the best SPF options for melanated skin that don’t leave a white cast, feel heavy, or clog your pores.
 
We’re talking glow, protection, and everything you need to stay sun-safe without sacrificing your skin goals.
 
I’m also announcing two exciting updates:
✨ My upcoming SPF Finishing Mist (yes, finally!)
📖 And my new book Love, A Melanated Skincare Guide—available now on Amazon!
 
🌟 Mentioned Products in This Episode:
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30/45 – hydrating and cast-free
EltaMD UV Clear Tinted SPF 46 – great for hyperpigmentation
Eucerin Sun Oil Control SPF 50 – perfect for oily/acne-prone skin
Kinlò Golden Rays SPF 50 – made by Naomi Osaka, made for us
 
💧 Want to Test My New SPF Finishing Mist?
Be the first to experience my upcoming glow-boosting SPF spray—designed for melanin-rich skin.
👉🏾 Click here to sign up to be a product tester: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfS9YJloxBPj9_M7T9weEfHqAvMdGBDJA8owFPgTGu5JmG1Aw/viewform
📚 Grab the Book:
Love, A Melanated Skincare Guide is now available on Amazon!
If this book has helped you or someone you love, I’d be honored if you’d leave a review or share it. I’m manifesting a spot on the New York Times Best Sellers list, and every bit of support helps.
👉🏾 https://a.co/d/a5aPjnB
 
🎧 Connect With Me:
📸 IG: @skinmaven2025
💼 LinkedIn: Lakischa Morgan
📰 Newsletters: DivinneSkinn on LinkedIn
🌐 Website: https://vq0ane-iz.myshopify.com/
 
🔥 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share!
Tag me when you’re tuned in—let’s keep building this glowing community, one episode at a time.