There is a common misconception that dark skin does not require sunscreen and that is completely false. At one point in time, as a Black woman, you may have been told that you don’t need sunscreen because your skin can’t burn. Another issue that reinforced this false narrative is the lack of sunscreens that are dark-skin friendly.
Thankfully, more brands have gone back to the drawing board with melanin in mind. I have ro
What I’m Wearing: Dress // Shoes // Sunglasses
Black skin not only burns in the sun but we are susceptible to skin cancer too. The misconception there lies within the assumption that melanin-rich skin has a natural defence against the sun. A built-in barrier so to speak. Like many others, I was well into my adult years when I learned just how important SPF was.
Once I came to this realization, I came across another hurdle. The majority of sunscreen brands are not dark-skin friendly. The grey/blue cast that they leave behind might deter Black women from adding SPF into their daily skincare routine.
A few brands (not many) have introduced sunscreen formulas that go on sheer on darker skin in recent years. This is encouraged me to test out as many sunscreens as I can get my hands on and share the ones that work well.
Dark-Skin Friendly Sunscreens for Every Budget
I’ve rounded up five affordable sunscreens that are dark-skin friendly. Next time you come across any of them in your local drugstore, pick one up and try it out!
Black Girl Sunscreen
This one is hands down the G.O.A.T. of dark-skin-friendly sunscreens. It goes without saying that if you are lucky enough to get your hands on this one as it always sells out.
Banana Boat Kids Tear Free Sunscreen
This sunscreen has the highest SPF in this roundup and has quickly become my favourite. Also, 240ml of product? This is such a steal. It is a good option for the entire family and works for the whole body.
I have started using this one on my face and love that it doesn’t sting my eyes (kid-friendly!) like most.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydro Water Gel Sunscreen
I admit I was skeptical about trying this sunscreen out but I’m so happy that I bought it! It has the texture of a gel moisturizer and reminds me of the Clinique Moisturizing Gel. It leaves a beautiful glow that makes my skin look and feel so supple. A really great option for oily-skinned girls.
La Roche-Posay Ultra Fluid Invisible Finish
La Roche-Posay has a great line of skincare products so this is another good option! It goes on sheer (almost invisible) so you can feel comfortable not wearing makeup to cover up any discolouration.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch
I was initially worried that this one would be pasty since it is thicker and has a higher SPF than the Hydro Boost formula. Happy to say that I was wrong. I do have to say that the consistency is a bit heavy for the summer so I would personally keep this as a fall/winter option.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen
Supergoop! has been doing wonders in the world of inclusivity with suncare products. I have tried and loved both the Play! and Unseen sunscreens.
Both are equally great but I prefer Play! as it can be used for the whole body.
SHOP THE POST
This post was all about dark skin-friendly sunscreen.
Hey look at you, always inspired and thanks for those tips ❤️❤️