Have you ever walked past the sunscreen aisle because you’ve heard the myth that “Black people don’t need sunscreen”? I have also believed in this myth until recently. In March of this year, I decided to focus more on my daily skincare routine and realized the importance of sunscreen for people of color. I was surprised that social media influencers of color always mentioned the need for sunscreen. The TikTok comments, including those from my distant cousin, all had one thing in common: “Black people can use all the skincare products, but it won’t be effective without sunscreen.”
Skin Care is self-care
crowones.com
Since March, I have included sunscreen in my daily routine and have noticed a positive change in my hyperpigmentation. Applying sunscreen has also protected my face from the intense heat in Florida. I still remember the pain of a sunburn I experienced when I didn’t use sunscreen, which made me realize how important sunscreen is for people of color.
Here are three reasons you should consider purchasing and using sunscreen as a protection from the sun.
1. Reduces sun damage, wrinkles, and fine lines caused by UV rays.
The article “Myth vs. Facts: Do People of Color Need Sunscreen & Sun Protection?” advises that although melanin found in darker skin provides some protection against UV radiation, darker skin can still be at risk for sunburn and skin cancer without sunscreen protection. (Ford, 2024)
2. Protects against skin cancer and hyperpigmentation caused by UV rays.
Although Black people are less likely to be diagnosed with melanoma than non-Hispanic white people (a rate of 1 per 100,000 compared to 30 per 100,000) “Black people who do develop the cancer have a much lower five-year survival rate” (Balch et al., 2022).
I’ve always struggled with hyperpigmentation and discoloration, especially on my face. I’ve noticed that using sunscreen after my skincare routine has helped my face win the battle. One reason for that is that by using sunscreen, I am protecting my face from UV rays and safeguarding my skincare investment. I’d say that’s a “win-win.”
3. Protects from sunburn.
I have experienced sunburn, seen sunburn on others, and heard its stories, so why not just protect from it?
Protect Yourself
Whether you are having a hot girl summer or you are the BBQ Grill Master at the family event, protect yourself and wear sunscreen.
Wear Sunscreen: Make sure your sunscreen is SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours per the instructions. I use “Black Girl Sunscreen” (this is not an ad). I use this sunscreen because a Black entrepreneur created it; it’s specifically formulated for people of color, doesn’t leave a white residue, and feels like it seals in the moisture from my skincare routine. Therefore, I use Black Girl Sunscreen as the last step in my morning routine.
The next time you apply your favorite lotion or moisturizer, don’t forget to put the cherry on top by applying sunscreen as your final step. (You will thank me later)
Recommendations for Black Skin-Friendly Sunscreen:
Here is my research on sunscreens for Black Skin-friendly Sunscreen; as always, do your Googles and research and find what works for you.
Black Girl Sunscreen
Black Girl Sunscreen Matte (Goes on clear)
Sun Bum Face Mist (Can be sprayed after make-up)
Cooper Tone Every Tone
Hawaiian Tropic
CervaVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen
References:
Balch, B., By, Balch, B., Writer, S., & 21, J. (2022, July 21). Why are so many black patients dying of skin cancer?. AAMC. https://www.aamc.org/news/why-are-so-many-black-patients-dying-skin-cancer
https://www.aamc.org/news/why-are-so-many-black-patients-dying-skin-cancer
