Sun damage — including sunburn — occurs regardless of skin color. Darkly pigmented skin has the same number of pigment-producing cells as light-colored skin; that’s why sunscreen for black people is such an important topic.
Darker skin may not show these visible signs of sun damage as readily. But it’s still happening. “Melanin offers some natural protection. But no skin is 100% effective at preventing sunlight from coming through,” says dermatologist Dr. Darren Guffey.
When sunlight penetrates cells, UV radiation damages the cell’s DNA, which compromises the body’s basic blueprint for growing new cells and structures. As a result, you get an overgrowth of atypical cells that the body is less equipped to recognize and destroy. This is basically cancer, Guffey explains: the rapid, unchecked growth of atypical cells.
That’s why sunscreen for Black people is just as important as it is for anyone else. Sunscreen provides added protection against UV rays, which can cause skin cancer, and is recommended for all skin types. It increases the skin’s natural resistance to sun damage by absorbing and reflecting sunlight.
So, yes, we Black folks need to wear sunscreen, too. Our skin may come in many shades, but our health is still at risk. Not to mention the sun will damage anyone’s skin that is exposed to it. Take it from me, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Here are five sunscreens designed to fit your personal lifestyle and skincare needs, all of which work well on Black skin.
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1. All-in-One Solution
Our Pick: Ultra Sheer SPF 30 Moisturizing Sunscreen
Black Girl Sunscreen – $10.99-$18.99
Founded by Shontay Lundy in 2016, this sunscreen is made for brown skin by women of color. Black Girl Sunscreen is all about formulating sun protection options for melanated skin with natural ingredients like avocado, jojoba, and sunflower oils. In addition to crafting formulas that don’t leave an unwanted white cast behind, Black Girl Sunscreen products are made without oxybenzone and octinoxate. The formula goes on completely clear and gives the skin a pretty glow. Because it hydrates without being greasy or tacky, it’s an effective base for makeup.
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2. Dry Skin
Our pick: Complete Daily Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Olay-$14.99
If you have dry skin, you need hydrating sunscreens. Most facial moisturizers with sunscreen can achieve this. This oil-and-fragrance-free formula with zinc oxide has over 300 five-star reviews
3. Oily Skin
Our Pick: Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay – $20.99
Oxybenzone-free and designed for oily skin, this lightweight chemical sunscreen absorbs with silica to help you stay shine-free.
4. Active
Our pick: CLEAR Ultra-Light Daily Fluid SPF 30+
Paula’s Choice – $39.00
Sweat a lot? This formula is specifically designed for the person who loves to be active in the sun. Its formula offers a water-resistant protectant with added menthol. It leaves your skin feeling dry, cool, and most importantly, safe!
This ultra-lightweight sunscreen checks both boxes, with a liquid texture that hydrates while absorbing instantly.
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5. Coverage
Our pick: CC+ Cream with SPF 50+
IT Cosmetics – $39.00
If you depend on your coverage, this is the option for you. There is nothing worse than layering on sunscreen, then turning around and applying makeup. Try this 2-in-1 formula that protects the skin while offering a light tint and coverage. For many women wondering what type of sunscreen is best for Black people who also want a flawless finish, this one checks both boxes. This all-in-one cream is powered by mineral sunscreens.
FAQ: All About Sunscreen for Black People
Do Black people really get sunburn?
Yes, we do. Sunburn on Black people’s skin can look like dryness and peeling, and you may feel your skin is extra sensitive to touch. You might not be visibly burned, but the UV damage is still occurring beneath the surface. That’s why sunscreen for Black people is just as important as for anyone else.
What type of sunscreen is best for Black people?
To find the best sunscreen for melanated skin, look for formulas that:
- Go on clear or blend into our skin easily (we’re not having that chalky white cast)
- Match your skin type (hydrating for dry, mattifying for oily)
- Offer broad-spectrum protection (blocks both UVA and UVB rays)
- Are at least SPF 30
How much sunscreen should I use?
For your face and neck, it’s recommended that you squeeze a line of sunscreen along two fingers (index and middle).
For your whole body, the measurement should be about a shot glass full.
Also, make sure to apply sunscreen to your ears, scalp, tops of feet, and the backs of your hands.
How often should you reapply sunscreen?
Reapply sunscreen every two hours if you’re outdoors, and right after swimming or sweating. If you’re spending the day mostly indoors, just apply sunscreen in the morning. Also, apply sunscreen if you’re sitting near windows or taking long road trips where the sun is streaming in through the car windows.
