Black people should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that protects against UVA and UVB rays.
For those who are interested in more details
According to experts, black people should still use sunscreen despite the widely-held belief that they don’t need it. This is because everyone, regardless of skin color, is at risk of skin cancer and sun damage. However, the kind of sunscreen that black people should use may differ from those with lighter skin tones.
Black skin has more melanin, which provides a natural protection of up to SPF 13. This means that black people may not need as high an SPF as lighter-skinned individuals. Nevertheless, it is recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays. This reduces the risk of sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer.
In addition, black people should look for sunscreens that are labeled “ultra-sheer” or “invisible”. These types of sunscreen do not leave a white residue, which can be more visible on darker skin tones. Some examples of recommended sunscreens for black people include:
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 45
- Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
- EltaMD UV clear facial sunscreen SPF 46
It is also important to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating.
As dermatologist Dr. Jeanine Downie emphasizes, “People with darker skin might not burn, but they’re still experiencing damage and they’re still at risk for skin cancer.” Protecting your skin with sunscreen is an important step in maintaining healthy skin, regardless of skin color.
Interesting facts on sunscreen:
- Sunscreen was first introduced commercially in the 1930s by Eugene Schueller, the founder of L’Oreal.
- Some studies suggest that daily use of SPF 30 sunscreen can slow down the aging process by 24% compared to those who don’t use sunscreen.
- In 2021, Hawaii became the first state to ban the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are harmful to coral reefs.
Table: Recommended sunscreens for black people
| Brand | Product Name | SPF | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neutrogena | Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen | 45 | Ultra-sheer, non-greasy |
| Black Girl Sunscreen | Black Girl Sunscreen | 30 | Moisturizing, dries clear |
| EltaMD | UV clear facial sunscreen | 46 | Lightweight, non-comedogenic |
See more answers
“For my body I will typically use the biggest bottle of drugstore sunscreen that is SPF 50+ and water resistant,” says Gray, who recommends Neutrogena Beach Defense and Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense sunscreen in particular. Even their drugstore-branded substitutes will do the trick and are usually less expensive.
Video related “What kind of sunscreen should a black person use?”
Dermatologist Dr. Janine Downey recommends that everyone should wear sunscreen every day, regardless of their skin color, and suggests using SPF 30 or above. While melanomas are found in higher numbers in palms and soles of darker skin tones, other types of skin cancers can still affect people with darker skin. Therefore, it is essential for people of color to be just as proactive and vigilant about wearing sunscreen as those with lighter skin tones.
More intriguing questions on the topic
Also asked, What type of sunscreen is best for black skin? The reply will be: Healthline’s picks of the best sunscreens for dark skin
- Black Girl Sunscreen.
- EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 Facial Sunscreen.
- Alba Botanica Sensitive Sheer Shield Sunscreen.
- Colorescience Sun Forgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield.
- CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen.
In this way, What SPF is needed for African American? The answer is: SPF 30 and 50
Experts recommend going with something between SPF 30 and 50. No need to go above 50, because anything higher might provide more of a sense of security than any additional protection. Apply sunscreen every day (if you’re going out) and reapply every two hours, or right after sweating or swimming.
Can Black Girl Sunscreen be used on white skin? A: Black Girl Sunscreen protects people of ALL skin tones and helps to reach people of color who are more likely to skip sunscreen because most other brands leave a chalky residue on darker skin.
Is SPF 40 good for brown skin?
Response will be: Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40
The antioxidant-rich chemical sunscreen has scored both Best of Beauty and Readers’ Choice Awards. "This is amazing for deep skin tones," says Medhin. "It also is a primer, so it helps smooth the skin and provides a grip for makeup."