Let’s be honest; finding the best sunscreen for dark skin can be quite a drag because most leave us with a white cast.
Putting that aside, there is a myth that states darker skin tones do not need sunscreen, and it is utterly false because all skin tones can be affected by excessive sun exposure. Adverse effects include premature aging, hyperpigmentation, darkening of existing scars, and running the risk of potential skin cancer.
A part of the reason behind this misconception is that people with dark skin tones have more melanin. This means they are less likely to burn in the sun or experience sun damage. It also aids in blocking harmful UV rays from entering the skin, which reduces our chance of sun damage.
Just because your skin is rich in melanin doesn’t mean you don’t need extra protection.
Sunscreen should be used even on the gloomiest days and when sitting at home because UV rays can penetrate glass.
A broad-spectrum SPF (sun protection factor) of no less than 30 should be used daily and reapplied when necessary.
To understand sunscreen, read this blog post that captures every aspect.
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Side-effects of not using sunscreen for dark skin
Because your melanocytes are so significant excessive exposure to the sun can result in a few unwanted skin problems, namely:
- An increased chance of worsening existing hyperpigmentation, as well as a case of developing it
- Existing dark spots will not go away
- Potential sunburn
- Premature aging and wrinkles
- Chance of developing cancer (it’s small, but it’s there)
The best sunscreen products for dark skin
So, there are physical and chemical sunscreens, and both have pros and cons.
Chemical sunscreens blend very well into dark skin. Since they penetrate your skin and contain harmful chemicals (usually oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate), they may irritate your skin.
Physical sunscreens (mineral sunscreens) do not always have the most pleasant texture, and they tend to be thick and greasy and don’t blend well, leaving a white cast on darker skin tones. But, they are suitable because they don’t irritate.
Better technology and research have brought about alternative solutions to mineral sunscreens for darker skin. There are now sunscreens formulated with nanoparticles or tinted, giving a more attractive coverage on dark skin. If you are interested in further knowing the difference between physical and chemical sunscreens, I dive deep into it in this article.
So some of my favorite mineral sunscreens for dark skin are:
Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield FLEX SPF50
As long as I use sunscreen, this will always be one of my top three picks. It has no fragrance, denatured alcohol, or essential oils, so it will most likely not irritate your skin. Colorscience also has a range of tinted sunscreens for all skin tones and does not leave any white cast.
All skin types can use it because it is lightweight, moisturizing, packed with antioxidants, and made of 100% mineral sunscreen.
Shop their sunscreens here; just make sure you choose the correct shade when purchasing.
Supergoop! Mineral Sheer Sunscreen SPF 40
This is 100% mineral sunscreen and does not leave a white cast. It soothes my skin and holds up well as a primer for makeup. Supergoop uses a technology they call “SheerMatrix Technology,” which applies smoothly to the skin. Because mineral sunscreens are made from tiny powders, making them invisible on your skin is impossible. Because of this, using sheer finish results in a more even, lightweight application. It is for all skin types.
MDSolarSciences MD Mineral BB Creme SPF 50
This sunscreen comes in three different shades: light, medium, and dark. It leaves your skin looking glowy with a sheer tint. I love it because it is 100% mineral-based and has niacinamide and caffeine, which help combat redness and discoloration. We love a truly innovative sunscreen, don’t we?
It is also fragrance-free and vegan.
Here is a pin that you could save. Remember, we don’t want to lose any information here!
Chemical sunscreens for dark skin
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
The sunscreen is ultra-sheer and explicitly designed for dark skin to raise awareness about the need for sun protection. It is oxybenzone and octinoxate-free, the two main actives in chemical sunscreens that can be toxic. It helps to reduce hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and fine lines.
Cetaphil Acne-prone Moisturizer SPF 30
As much as this moisturizer/sunscreen is marketed to people with acne-prone skin whose skin tends to be oily, it is ironic. It is a very moisturizing sunscreen for people with dry or combination skin. The product has a beautiful, lightweight texture and absorbs the skin nicely.
The only downside is that it burns your eyes if it dares to touch even the tip of your eye, so just be careful when using it.
3. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 Facial Sunscreen
This sunscreen comes with both mineral and chemical UV filters. It does not clog your pores, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. Apart from protecting your skin, this product gently exfoliates because it is formulated with lactic acid, which will also reduce pigmentation and balance your skin’s oil production. It is an excellent formulation for dark skin because of all the incredible benefits it comes with.
And finally
Ultimately, all that matters is that you use an SPF; even if it is not the ideal formulation, it is better than nothing. Make sure it is no less than a broad spectrum SPF 30 sunblock.
Avoid spending too much time in the sun; if you do, wear hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas.
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