Sunscreen For Dark Skin
FAQs
WHAT KIND OF SUNSCREEN IS BEST FOR DARK SKIN?
Those with darker skin tones often wonder which type of sunscreen is best for their complexion. One of the most frustrating things for people of color when looking for sunscreen is that many leave behind a white residue (also known as white cast). Not only does it look less than desirable, having the residual product clumped on your skin can add a heaviness to your complexion that’s just not comfortable.
At Colorescience, we understand that every skin tone is unique, that’s why we offer sunscreen for black people in addition to medium and fair shades. Our line of mineral sunscreen protection is specifically designed to perfectly blend with skin, so it appears invisible, even on darker complexions. While in the past, mineral sunscreens were believed to leave behind a whiter cast more than their chemical sunscreen counterparts, our proprietary mineral formulas allow for a sunscreen for dark skin that looks good and works well.
A few other things to keep in mind when searching for a sunscreen for dark skin is the SPF level and the safety of the ingredients. Colorescience has created a line of high-quality sunscreen for black skin or brown skin that are made without harsh chemicals and provide unmatched protection against sun and pollution.
These are a few of our dark skin sunscreen options:
- SUNFORGETTABLE® TOTAL PROTECTION™ SHEER MATTE SPF 30 SUNSCREEN BRUSH: This sheer matte formula is designed to provide you with ample protection against the sun, without looking like you have sunscreen on. Due to the mattifying effect created by this sunscreen, it’s an excellent choice for oily skin types. Even better, you can take this brush-applicator with you wherever you go.
- SUNFORGETTABLE® TOTAL PROTECTION™ BRUSH-ON SHIELD SPF 50: If you like the brush-on sunscreen concept, but want something that provides greater coverage, our Brush-on Shield is available in several shades including tan and dark. This formula offers a sunscreen for black women who are struggling with acne or signs of aging because it blends seamlessly with your skin while blurring blemishes.
- SUNFORGETTABLE® TOTAL PROTECTION™ SPORT STICK SPF 50: This powerful and convenient sunscreen is easy to take on the go and glides on using the stick applicator. While this sunscreen does apply white so you can see where you’re placing it, the formula becomes invisible once rubbed in.
- SUNFORGETTABLE® TOTAL PROTECTION™ FACE SHIELD SPF 50: If you prefer a liquid formula that leaves no trace of white residue, this is an excellent option. This formula is also available in a bronze shade and glow shade that gives a boost of luminosity to your complexion.
- SUNFORGETTABLE® TOTAL PROTECTION™ BODY SHIELD SPF 50: This liquid-formula sunscreen for your body goes on as a universal shade that will easily blend into your darker complexion, while protecting your entire body from the harmful effects of the sun.This formulas is also available in a bronze shade.
Sunscreen for black skin doesn’t need to be difficult to find. We have a diverse range of sunscreen for dark skin tones that will protect you from the sun and keep your complexion looking radiant.
DO PEOPLE WITH DARK SKIN NEED SUNSCREEN?
Yes. While having darker skin does provide you with a bit more protection from the sun due to the higher levels of melanin, that doesn’t mean you can forgo sunscreen when heading outdoors. Even though you might not see a noticeable sunburn when you spend time outside without wearing sunscreen, there may be other signs that your skin is under duress including heat emanating from the skin or tenderness to touch.
If you are under the impression that your skin simply gets a tan after being in the sun, you may be surprised to know that you may be severely damaging your skin by not wearing any sunblock*. When people of color suffer from sun damage, it can lead to premature skin aging, sagging, and even hyperpigmentation.
According to the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG), the amount of sun exposure your skin can handle before burning depends on your skin tone. Within 50 minutes, those with olive skin tones can begin to sunburn. And while those with dark brown or black skin can spend up to 60 minutes in the sun without burning, it’s not advised to regularly go out in the sun without protection. Other factors like where you live—specifically the current UV index and radiation levels—can also impact how much the sun affects your skin and how long it can withstand the sun, no matter your skin tone.
Additionally, while individuals with darker skin tones are at a lower risk of skin cancer, that doesn’t mean they face no risk. So yes, even if you have dark skin you need to wear sunscreen. Fortunately, there are more options than ever when it comes to quality sunscreen for black skin.
In addition to our sunblock* for dark skin, we also have other skincare products that may address other needs common among those with deeper skin tones. For example, if you suffer from hyperpigmentation, our skin pigmentation collection can help you treat discoloration and even out your skin tone.
HOW MUCH SPF DO PEOPLE WITH DARK SKIN NEED?
There is a wide range of dark skin tones, meaning that there’s not necessarily a one-size-fits-all SPF solution. However, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends SPF 30 or higher for anyone who is going to expose their skin to the sun.
In addition to wearing dark skin sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, you should also make sure to reapply every two hours. And if you’re swimming or sweating, you’ll need to reapply even more frequently, about every 80 minutes.
If you want to find a sunscreen for dark skin that’s made with natural ingredients, provides exceptional protection from the sun and environmental factors, and enhances the appearance of your beautiful dark skin, look no further than Colorescience. Our sunscreens provide high-quality UV protection that’s free of harmful ingredients and friendly for all skin types.
*Sunblock is not a term approved by the FDA. Colorescience refers to our products as sun protection.
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