We’re here to address two things: a myth and a unique problem. Let’s begin with the myth that black people don’t need to wear sunscreen. This is a common misconception. Although the melanin in black skin does offer some protection from the sun, it is not immune from skin cancer. Black skin has a natural SPF of 13, but many dermatologist suggest wearing at least an SPF 15 broad spectrum sunscreen daily.
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Many black women who wear or have attempted to wear sunscreen often complain of one major problem: sunscreen makes them look pale or comes off chalky on our beautiful brown skin. All too often the claims of transparent sunscreen coverage fail the dark skin test, leaving us looking ashy and gray.
In order for a sunscreen to be black girl approved, it must be completely sheer on the darkest of skin. We’ve researched and experimented and came up with a list of the 5 best sunscreens for dark skin.
NEUTROGENA ULTRA SHEER DRY TOUCH SPF 30+ SUNSCREEN
Neutrogena is a drugstore brand go-to for affordable makeup and skin care products. Many of their sunscreens are black-girl friendly. This one is our favorite because it provides adequate sun protection with a light, sheer coverage and Neutrogena® Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 30 or NEUTROGENA® ULTRA SHEER® DRY-TOUCH SUNSCREEN BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 55 feel like you have nothing on.
CeraVe Sunscreen Body Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Another fave for brown and black girls, this affordable sunscreen has micro-fine zinc oxide and an oil-free sun blocker that gives your skin a quick-dry, clear finish. CeraVe Sunscreen Body Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 50 also has ceramides help repair, restore, and protect the skin from harsh solar rays.
Supergoop Antioxidant-Infused Sunscreen Mist with Vitamin C Broad Spectrum SPF 50
This is a feather-light sunscreen mist. Supergoop Antioxidant-Infused Sunscreen Mist is antioxidant-rich, has a patent-pending formula that nourishes, moisturizes, and never dries out the skin or leaves an oily residue.
SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
This sunscreen is light enough to wear under moisturizer without being overly oily. SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 gives an ultra-sheer mattifying fluid with a transparent finish.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen
This sunscreen is great for those with oily or acne prone skin. It’s designed for sensitive skin and dries sheer on all skin tones. La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen has a powerful antioxidant complex to help protect skin from free radicals caused by UV rays.
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What’s your favorite sunscreen that won’t leave you ashy or looking like a ghost?
Sabrina
