It has been rumored that African American women have the uncanny ability to remain forever young. Fortunately, this statement is true (for most) but if lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise and the use of drugs aren’t the best your looks can go down the drain. That being said, it is actually scientifically proven that women of color will age more slowly than other races because of an amazing component called melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its color. Everyone is born with melanin except for those who have albinism but the darker you are, the more pigment (melanin) is being dispersed throughout the skin at a given time.
What does this have to do with age?
The number one cause of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin is the sun. UVA rays are responsible for expediting the aging process, which is why many beauty experts push wearing sunscreen daily. The one and only thing besides a sun protection cream that can fight these aging sun rays is melanin. And the more melanin you have, the more protection your melanin provides. Note: This does not mean skip the sunscreen ladies. We can still develop dark spots or uneven skin tone after being overexposed. The sun is powerful and your melanin alone may not save you!
So, now that we know the basics, let’s take a look at some black women who are walking proof that black don’t crack!
Brandy
Brandy Norwood has been a celebrity for as long as I can remember. As a child I was very inspired by her girl next door aura and often copied her unique hairstyles. Today she still looks exactly like the girl you seen on the hit television show Moesha even though it has been 20 years since the show began. Brandy has been recognized by many, mostly on social media, because of her youthful features. Ms.Norwood is now 37 years old.
Tyra Banks
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Tyra Banks has had one of the longest modeling careers ever. Even though she doesn’t spend as much time in front of the camera now, she finds those with extreme potential and turns them into models on her hit show America’s Next Top Model. Tyra has always been on the list of most beautiful women and even at age 42 can compete with women half her age.
Gabrielle Union
Gabrielle Union has appeared in dozens of films and television shows but one of the most popular was her leading role in the classic movie “Bring It On.” Who wanted to be a member of the Clover’s cheerleading squad when they were little? I know I did, I wanted to help Gabby and her crew defeat those talentless Toros. It is now sixteen years later and Ms.Union is still has the same flawless skin and athletic physique; she is now 43 years old.
Nia Long
This talented beauty has played a role in many black classics including The Fresh Prince of Belair, Friday, Boyz N The Hood, Love Jones, and Soul Food. Also known as Debbie from down the street (her character in Friday) , Nia Long has always been highly desired by men all over the world; And even today JCole’s “only regret is too young for Nia Long”, at age 45 she still has the juice!
Other notable beauties include:
Bianca Lawson
This woman has to be a vampire.
Tia and Tamara Mowry
Didn’t want them to grow up? Don’t worry, they still look the same!
Kerry Washington
Can you be in your prime at the age of 39?
