There has been a debate about whether people with melanin-rich skin truly need sunscreen. People of color have often been led to believe that they don’t need sunscreen due to the abundant melanin present in their skin.
I had the same belief for a long time until about two years ago when I got the worst face hyperpigmentation of my life.
My skin was different shades everywhere, and I hated it, which led me down the path of research. I conducted all the research and tried everything I could find, but it wasn’t working.
All I found were women of color discussing ineffective sunscreens. Others complained of the stinging sensation that often accompanies most sunscreens, while others complained of the ghostly white cast that many sunscreens leave on darker skin tones, among other issues.
The final straw was my visit to a dermatologist, and that was the best decision I have ever made for my skin.
She recommended an emollient, a good moisturiser and sunscreen.
I started using the products regularly, and within six weeks, I saw significant improvements in my skin.
I was not someone who believed in the power of sunscreen before that appointment, but all of a sudden I was fully converted to the sunscreen gang.
Sunscreen has transformed my skin, and every woman with melanin-rich skin should start using sunscreen.
Today’s blog post is all about different sunscreens that work for melanin-rich skin. Whether you have oily, normal, dry, or combination skin, we will cover the different sunscreens that work best for your specific skin type.
We will also address some of the most common questions that women of color ask about sunscreens and debunk some myths and misconceptions.
PS. I am not a certified dermatologist or skin expert; I am simply sharing what has worked for me, based on my Dermatologist’s recommendations for my skin type, as well as what has worked and continues to work for other women of color around me.
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanin Rich Sunscreen.
Q: Do black people need sunscreen?
A: Yes, yes and yes. Although the abundant melanin in our skin is allegedly supposed to protect us from the sun, we still need sunscreen to shield us from the harsh UVA and UVB rays, prevent premature skin aging, and even help prevent skin cancer.
Q: Should I wear sunscreen even when I’m indoors?
A: Yes, you should wear sunscreen every day, even when you’re not going outside. Even if you will be in the house the whole day, wear your sunscreen.
Q: Why does my sunscreen sting?
A: Sunscreens can sting your face and eyes, depending on your skin type (oily, combination, dry, or normal) and the type of sunscreen you are using. To avoid this, test and understand your skin type, and choose either a mineral or hybrid sunscreen according to your skin type.
Q: Do expensive sunscreens work best?
A: No, this is not always the case.. Some incredibly affordable drugstore sunscreens work wonders and provide the protection you need, such as Neutrogena.
Q: How long will it take before I see results?
A: No matter what that advertisement promises you, no skin care product will give you dramatic results overnight. Be patient and allow your sunscreen time to work (6 to 12 weeks) before deciding it’s not working for you.
Q: What is the difference between UVA and UVB?
A: UV stands for ultraviolet radiation, which is a form of energy that comes from the sun.
The A in UVA stands for aging ray, which has a long wavelength, meaning that it penetrates deeper into the skin layer. This plays a massive role in creating cancer and premature aging.
The B in UVB stands for burning, which has a shorter wavelength than UVA, meaning that it penetrates the skin more superficially. This is the leading cause of skin cancers and sunburns.
Q: Why does my sunscreen give me a white cast?
A: Chemical sunscreens filter radiation by absorbing it and transforming it into heat energy, and tend to be a lot lighter than mineral sunscreens, and usually go on like moisturizers. Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, sit on the skin like armor, forming a barrier between the sun’s rays and your skin, and are often the ones that leave a white cast.
Always go for chemical and hybrid sunscreens to avoid that ghostly white cast.
Q: How much sunscreen should I apply?
A: I’m sure you’ve seen the two-finger application method all over social media. I’m sure it works, but I recommend applying three full fingers and rubbing it in, then give it 15 minutes to absorb fully. Reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours for maximum protection, even when wearing makeup.
What should I look for in the best sunscreen?
1. Look for a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. One labeled as “broad spectrum protection,” meaning it offers the best wavelength to protect against both aging and burning rays.
2. Always opt for SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30 to 50+ sunscreens, as they block 97% to 98% of UVB rays, respectively.
3. Always look for non-comedogenic sunscreens, which means they won’t clog your pores, especially if you have acne-prone or oily skin.
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The best Sunscreens for melanin-rich skin that won’t leave a white cast
1. Black girl Sunscreen
Perfect for everyday use and leaves no white cast.
Works best for dry to combination skin.
2. Aveeno broad-spectrum sunscreen
Perfect for everyday use.
Perfect for normal to combination skin.
3. Anua broad-spectrum sunscreen
The Koreans have undoubtedly perfected the art of sun protection.
Perfect for everyday use.
Works for all skin types.
4. Jack Black broad-spectrum sun guard
Works well on normal to combination skin.
Perfect for everyday use.
5. Sun Bum Sunscreen stick
Perfect for reapplication throughout the day during the summer season or when visiting the beach or pool. Remember that sunscreen should be reapplied after every two hours.
Perfect for kids and reapplication over makeup.
6. Sun Bum body sunscreenÂ
The most recommended body sunscreen for women of color.
Perfect for all skin types.
7. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
Light and non-comedogenic.
Perfect for outdoor activities.
Works for normal to combination skin.
8. Eucerin Age Defense with Hyaluronic acid
Very hydrating due to its hyaluronic acid content. Leaves the skin feeling and looking plump.
9. La Roche Posay broad spectrum SPF
Perfect for sensitive skin.
Works well for face and body.
10. La Roche Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400
I use this sunscreen and I love it.
It lasts for ages and leaves the skin with a dewy and hydrated finish.
11. Black Girl Sunscreen for Kids
Most black mothers swear by this product; it’s perfect for all skin types and leaves the skin with a dewy finish.
12. Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen
Perfect for daily use.
Gives the skin a glowy finish.
Perfect for all skin types.
13. Innis Free broad-spectrum sunscreen
Perfect for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Gives the skin a satin finish.
Best Tinted Sunscreens
1. Elta MD tinted sunscreen
Works beautifully for dry and combination skin.
Leaves the skin hydrated and plump.
2. Eucerin tinted Sunscreen
Works for sensitive skin.
Provides medium coverage, giving the skin a dewy finish.
Best Sunscreen for lips
1. Black girl sunscreen gloss
Yes, you read that right. We need sunscreen on our lips.
2. Jack black sunscreen lip balm
3. Elta MD Lip balm
Please let us know in the comments below which sunscreen you will be choosing this summer and how it works for you. XOXO.
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