Protect Yourself From the Sun: Sunscreen for Black Skin

Unfortunately, there's a widespread myth that sunscreen for Black skin isn't necessary. But this myth is exactly that — a myth. All skin tones need protection from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. A diverse range of skin tones exist within Black and Brown communities, so it's important to learn how tailored sun protection can reduce the risk of skin cancer and sun-related damage.
 

The Myth of Sunscreen Exemption
 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, anyone can get skin cancer, regardless of skin color or shade. Therefore, this widespread misconception that dark skin doesn't need sun protection is dangerous. Darker skin might be less likely to burn than pale skin, but it is not naturally protected from all the harmful effects of the sun.
 

In addition to increasing the chances of getting skin cancer, exposure to the sun without sunscreen increases the risk of skin damage and premature aging for all skin tones.
 

Understanding Melanin and Sun Damage
 

Although darker skin tends to have more pigment (melanin), which does provide some inherent protection from the sun, the Cleveland Clinic stresses that it does not provide full protection against the complete spectrum of UV rays. Sunscreen for Black skin is just as important as sunscreen for white skin. Further, the Cleveland Clinic notes that melanoma cancer deaths are higher among African Americans than among any other group because dark-skinned people often do not get spot or mole checks.
 

Studies reviewed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) show an inverse correlation between skin pigmentation and the incidence of sun-induced skin cancers. That is, the lighter the skin tone, the higher the risk of developing skin cancer. According to the NIH, white skin is about 70 times more likely to develop skin cancer than Black skin. However, because a range of skin tone shades exists within the Black community, not all skin is equally protected. Light and medium-brown skin will have less melanin and are more susceptible to sun damage.
 

Importance of Sunscreen for Even Skin Tone
 

Hyperpigmentation, also called "age spots" or "liver spots," is a common skin condition that makes some areas of skin darker than others. When skin cells become damaged or unhealthy, they can produce too much melanin, which can then clump up and cause the surrounding area to appear darker. These melanin-rich patches and spots can look brown, black, gray, red or pink, and though they are not itchy or painful, they can cause individuals to become self-conscious about their appearance.
 

The good news is that lifestyle changes can help prevent these spots. Hyperpigmentation can affect anyone, and sunscreen for dark skin can help protect Black and Brown people from developing age spots in the first place. By wearing sunscreen for Black skin, less damage is inflicted in the first place, so the skin tone remains even.
 

Sunscreen can also help prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which is an area of darker skin after a pimple or wound heals. The discoloration is due to excess melanin production, a part of the skin's natural response to inflammation. Because people with dark skin have more melanin, they are also more likely to develop PIH. Not only can wearing sunscreen help keep PIH from happening, but if it does occur, wearing sunscreen can also help prevent these dark areas from becoming darker.

People with Black and brown skin are also more likely to develop keloid scars, which are thick, raised scars that often form on earlobes, shoulders, cheeks and chests. Like sun spots, keloid scars don't hurt, and they won't harm your physical health. They can, however, be emotionally distressing. The Mayo Clinic notes that these scars sometimes develop within months of the "inciting injury" (such as a burn, insect bite, body piercing or injection), but they can also appear years later. Though there are many causes of keloids, wearing sunscreen can help prevent a keloid from becoming darker and standing out more.
 

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Black Skin
 

Not all sunscreens are created equally, so it's important to choose sunscreen formulations that offer maximum protection. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen that is water-resistant and offers broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of 30 or higher.
 

The best sunscreens for dark skin won't leave a white cast or chalky appearance, which can happen with zinc oxide sunscreens. Zinc provides an opaque physical blocker (the white cast), that sits on top of skin and reflects the light. This doesn't mean that you should avoid all sunscreens with zinc oxide, as it is a highly effective ingredient, but you might want to look for "micronized" formulations, which prevent the chalky appearance by using smaller versions of these mineral ingredients.
 

Some great sunscreen for dark skin options that can be conveniently found at Rite Aid include:
 

• Black Girl Sunscreen
  
  
• Eucerin Daily Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 30
  
  
• Coppertone Every Tone (available in-store)
   

In addition to facial sunscreen, many cosmetics and beauty products include SPF, making it even easier to protect your skin. For instance, Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream with SPF 30 and CoverGirl Outlast Extreme Wear Liquid Foundation both come with light SPF.

 

Many sunscreen lip balms are on the market, but most only offer SPF 4 to SPF 15. If you want a higher level of protection, opt for one with SPF 30, like the Sun Bum Watermelon Sunscreen Lip Balm or the Aquaphor Lip Repair Stick with Sunscreen.
 

Sunscreen Application Tips
 

To get the most out of your sunscreen, you'll want to make sure you're using it properly. According to the Cleveland Clinic, you should apply a thick coating of sunscreen about 30 minutes before going outside. By incorporating sunscreen into your daily skin care routine, you'll be less likely to forget about it. For instance, if you wash your face or put on make-up every morning, you could easily apply sunscreen during your morning routine.
 

While your face is the most obvious place to apply sunscreen, don't miss these often-forgotten spots that need sunscreen, such as your ears, eyelids, lips and feet (if you're wearing sandals). As sunscreen breaks down over time, no formula offers all-day protection, so the Cleveland Clinic suggests reapplying it every at least every 2 hours. If you'll be swimming or sweating, opt for a water-resistant sunscreen, like the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Water-Resistant Sunscreen SPF 45, and reapply immediately after swimming, sweating or towel drying.
 

Everyone Needs Sunscreen
 

Sun protection is a universal need, regardless of skin color. Everyone, including those with Black skin, needs to prioritize sunscreen for comprehensive skin health. A proactive approach to skin care that includes regular sunscreen use and fosters a culture of sun protection within diverse communities will help reduce the risk of skin cancer and sun-related aging for all.
 

These articles are intended for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and are not intended to treat or cure any disease. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in these articles. Advances in medicine may cause this information to become outdated, invalid, or subject to debate. Professional opinions and interpretations of scientific literature may vary. Consult your healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise or medication regimen.