Not to mention, SPF is a critical part of any skincare routine, because “with cumulative sun exposure you can see increased fine lines, decreased elasticity, and discoloration," says dermatologist Dr. Meena Singh, MD. By Nicol Natale That said, more and more sunscreens are erupting on the market that blend seamlessly on darker complexions, so try one of these formulas to keep your skin protected from the sun's rays — without any white cast or chalky residue in sight. One of the biggest misconceptions in beauty is that if you have extra melanin in your skin, you don't need sunscreen. In addition to increasing the risk for skin cancer, it also worsens any existing hyperpigmentation. The best sunscreen for dark skin leaves no white cast, doesn't look ashy, and holds up in the heat. Murad's mineral City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50 may have a slight orange tint, but it's not anything to worry about. When you're pressed for time, you probably can't be bothered to put on moisturizer and a sunscreen. Your hands need sun protection, too! Created by New York City-based board-certified dermatologist David Colbert, it's an impressive chemical-free, multi-use option for the face and body laden with antioxidants and suitable for sensitive skin. The antioxidant-rich sunscreen applies smoothly on the skin and sits well underneath makeup. And not just in people with sensitive skin—for some, applying sunscreen can lead to a full blown allergic reaction. To help you pick an invisible SPF that's right for you, we've found (and tested) the best sunscreens for darker skin tones that were made with melanin in mind. It absorbs into a cast-free, natural finish and is great for those who are prone to sunburns. The reef-safe sunscreen is also available in a kid's version. Try to find one bad product in Neutrogena's Hydro Boost collection. If you’re looking for a sunscreen with extra SPF, EltaMD’s UV Clear Facial sunscreen is a must-have — and it’s a favorite among dermatologists. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, These Travel Books Will Take You Around the World, 19 Dreamy Summer Romances to Whisk You Away, Ultra Sheer SPF 30 Moisturizing Sunscreen, Full Spectrum Matte Ambition Skin Primer SPF 20, Environmental Shield Essential-C Eye Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 15. EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen uses only zinc oxide to reflect harmful UV rays off your skin so they don't cause skin damage. This sunscreen creates a barrier between your … It disappears on the skin, even on dark complexions. Best for Dark Skin: Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30. Its colorless, silky texture works flawlessly on virtually all skin types and complexions sans leaving behind any greasy or sticky residue. All rights reserved. This sunscreen has … The clear, gel-like Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 is great if you prefer more of a matte finish. It leaves my skin feeling hydrated and adds a … A favorite among people with rosacea -prone skin, this sunscreen contains octinoxate and transparent zinc oxide, which means it won’t leave a white residue. Moisturize and protect them with this highly rated lip balm from Fresh. No harsh rubbing needed to blend this sunscreen into your skin. To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories. © 2021 Condé Nast. Regardless of your skin type, everyone should be using sunscreen on a daily basis to protect the skin, prevent early signs of aging, and minimize the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Plus, the balm comes in over 10 pretty tints (read: it won’t make lips look ashy). Sounds okay for a day at the beach, but what about a day at the office? SPF is a non-negotiable part of any skincare routine!Not only does it keep the skin from burning, but also it’s critical for preventing skin … This top-rated (and derm loved) sunscreen lotion from Aveeno … It's made with beetroot extract, vitamin C, and allantoin to help brighten and soothe the skin. Although melanin does give darker skin tones some sun protection, it's not enough to prevent skin cancer. This powerful, budget-friendly sunscreen is also made with colloidal oatmeal to moisturize skin. Sunscreen is not a beauty product or something cosmetic; with growing global warming and pollution, sunscreen has become a necessity. Because it hydrates without being greasy or tacky, it’s an effective base for makeup. This sunscreen also scored the highest for its fragrance — it has a light scent that'll … However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Black Girl Sunscreen is made with four different oils — avocado, jojoba, and sunflower oil — and cocoa butter for protection from the sun that's also moisturizing. This ultra lightweight sunscreen checks both boxes and has a liquid texture that hydrates while absorbing instantly. With an impressive SPF of 46, … Kristen Bell Swears by Sunscreen for Youthful Skin at 40—and This $11 Pick Is Her Favorite She’s also a fan of double cleansing, rich moisturizers, and the occasional face mask. “There are shades to match every skin tone, it acts as a concealer, and is oil-free with a matte finish,” she says. The Eleven By Venus On-The-Defense Sunscreen dries down to a matte finish in mere seconds. It inhibits melanin formation and provides UV protection. Michelle Henry, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, shared with Allure that even though darker skin types have some natural protection against UV light, the highest possible level is SPF 13, which is below the recommended level of SPF 30. The formula goes on completely clear and gives the skin a pretty glow. Since UV light can pass through clouds, use sunscreen … The lightweight, mineral powder sunscreen offers a sheer layer of coverage, won’t irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin, and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. If you're trying to even your skin tone through treatments, what's the point if you aren't using sunscreen? Recommended by dermatologists worldwide. Discover face moisturizers and washes, acne treatments, anti-aging serums, SPF sunscreen … Allure may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. This all-in-one cream is powered by mineral sunscreens and is Dr. Singh’s current go-to. This powerful, budget-friendly sunscreen is also made with … Eau Thermale Avène's Mineral Ultra-Light Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ is perfect for those with sensitive, easily-irritated skin, and it wears beautifully underneath makeup, too. Regular daily use of SPF 15 sunscreen can reduce your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by about 40 percent, and lower your melanoma … Women of color share their reviews of the ones that work. You are reversing any of the magic you want to happen. The multipurpose, ultra-fine Kate Somerville UncompliKated SPF 50 Soft Focus Makeup Setting Spray sets makeup, reduces shine, and delivers a powerful dose of SPF all in one go for glowy, sun-protected skin. “I prefer mineral based sunscreens or physical blockers that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, because they're more protective against exacerbation of discoloration and dark spots," says Dr. Singh. A sunscreen made for brown skin by women of color. Just one caveat: It's a bit of an investment. So give that delicate area on your face extra protection with this eye cream that not only has SPF but also the antioxidant Vitamin C. Treatment ingredients include retinol to increase cell turnover and avocado oil for moisture. Lips need sun care, too. In addition to sun protection, red algae helps protect you from blue light emitted … Apply a lip balm or lipstick with an SPF of least 30 to your lips. Don't be afraid of the thickness of the Sonrei Sea Clearly Gel Sunscreen because it glides and melts into the skin like butter. All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. Buy on Blackgirlsunscreen.com. Without wearing sunscreen you increase your risk for skin cancer. It’s non-whitening, goes on smooth and absorbs excess oil. People with darker skin may not be more susceptible to skin cancer, but, Henry says, "When those with darker skin are diagnosed with skin cancer, the outcomes are typically worse likely because they are found at later stages.". "This formula is everything I want and need it to be," she says. The finish is matte without looking dry. Plus it has sea buckthorn fruit extract and argan oil for extra hydration. Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 is an oil-free chemical sunscreen that’s great for oily and combination skin. Thankfully, Mario Badescu's Oil-Free Moisturizer SPF 30 simultaneously nourishes and protects the skin, effectively cutting your skin-care routine in half. Formulated for the face and body, the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen SPF 70 packs some serious sun protection punch. The Safe Sun Block Cream from LOTUS HERBALS is a mineral-rich sunscreen lotion for dry skin with SPF 20. Spritz a little throughout the day to reapply your sunscreen without disrupting everything underneath. The vegan sunscreen is formulated with three different pollution-fighting antioxidants — ferulic acid, vitamin C, and E — which also hydrate and brighten skin. The trouble is, so many options on the market leave a white cast that can be unflattering and chalky. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. To revisit this article, select My Account, then View saved stories. Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin This sun protection product is suitable for acne -prone skin types. Our editorial assistant Gabi Thorne says she can't get enough of it. This oil-and-fragrance-free formula with zinc oxide has over 300 five-star reviews on Walmart.com. The best sunscreens for combination skin will protect without leaving a greasy finish or irritating drier areas of the skin. A win-win! Formulated for the face and body, the Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen SPF 70 packs some serious sun protection punch. Sunscreen and brown skin: Let's talk about it. The lightweight sunscreen leaves zero traces of a white cast on the skin, and comes in both SPF 30 and SPF 50 options. Our editors handpick the products that we feature. "With zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid and … Sun Bum's Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion received a perfect score for not stinging or irritating skin. It blocks a broader range of the sun’s light than titanium dioxide and may be more stable. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends SPF 15 every day you leave your house and SPF 30 … Krave Beauty's The Beet Shield offers SPF 50 protection while completely blending into skin. This SPF 50 from Paula's Choice checks … A deeply harmful skin-care misconception that just won't die is that those with darker complexions don't need to wear daily sun protection. The melanin in our skin can do a lot of magical things, but protecting us from the sun is not one of them. 10 Makeup Brands With Eyeshadow for Any Skin Tone, The 19 Best Nude Lipsticks for Women of Color. “For dry skin I usually recommend using sunscreens that are hydrating. We may earn commission from the links on this page. This sunscreen is loved by Amazon reviewers because it rubs in … Our mission, a better life for sensitive skin. Well, according to experts, skipping on sunscreen is pretty dang dangerous for your skin. Tennis star Venus Williams partnered with Credo Beauty to create a mineral sunscreen that doesn't leave a hint of a white cast. Beeswax, jojoba oil, black currant seed oil, and sugar give this balm its creamy hydrating base while SPF 15 does the sun-blocking work. That's right: The affordable skin-care brand's lineup is perfect for summer, and the Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion feels like liquid gold on your face. No matter your complexion, once the peachy cream sinks into the skin (and it does instantly), it's completely untraceable. We'll wait. It blocks a broader range of the sun’s light than titanium dioxide and may be more stable. Oprah Magazine participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. "Because many of my patients complain of greasiness and being acne-prone, I always recommend checking labels and ensuring that products are oil-free and non-comedogenic,” says Dr. Singh. Oxybenzone-free and designed for oily skin, this lightweight chemical sunscreen absorbs with silica, helping you stay shine-free. King recommends this non-comedogenic, sensitivity-free, oil-free, paraben-free and fragrance-free sunscreen for acne-prone skin. While you don't necessarily have to reach for that bottle of SPF 100 (SPF 30 is sufficient), yes, you should wear broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, even if you have a darker skin tone. Decrease your risk of skin cancers and skin precancers. Ad Choices, You have to wear SPF, but it doesn't have to, Venus Williams partnered with Credo Beauty, Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40. Glossier's Invisible Shield is, hands down, one of the most Black and brown girl-friendly sunscreens on the market. And who wants to look ghostly? You need to use sunscreen daily for sun protection and care for … Public service announcement aside, let's face it — not all sunscreens are made the same. It also comes in a … Paraben-Free. But, weirdly enough, sunscreen can actually cause irritated skin for some people. Zinc oxide is the sunscreen gold standard. The lightweight Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream is infused with aloe leaf extract so you're getting some serious moisturizing benefits with SPF protection. It also comes in both SPF 30 and 50 options. This formula gets it right. A blend of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide forms (with an antioxidant boost from echinacea) a shield on the skin that not only blocks the sun’s damaging rays, but also visible light from digital devices (which accelerate aging, too). Formulated by women of color for people of color, this SPF 30 is filled with natural ingredients that are … Spritz this spray right on top of your makeup—it’ll refresh your look and protect your skin. No matter your skin tone, you should be wearing sunscreen every day, even when it's cloudy or you're staying indoors. Mineral sunscreens are particularly helpful for dark skin because they deflect heat which worsens hyperpigmentation, says Dr. Singh. People who have sensitive skin or skin conditions like rosacea may also benefit from using sunscreens designed for children. PSA: You don't need to drop all your dollars to get your hands on a sunscreen for sensitive skin that actually works. Finding a sunscreen for oily skin can be tough, but it’s also extremely important. The eye area is particularly sensitive to the sun’s damaging rays because the skin is thinner and dryer. Use sunscreen on all skin surfaces that will be exposed to the sun, such as your neck, the tops of your feet, your ears and the top of your head. This lightweight, mineral sunscreen is a new kid on the skin care block and has a lightweight formula that blends in like a moisturizer. If you're swimming or sweating, you 100 percent need to be using a sunscreen for oily skin that's non-greasy and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. The Best Sunscreens For Dark Skin, According to Experts including Elta MD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46, Paula’s Choice Clear Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+, NeoStrata … So you get that necessary shield from the sun with additional skin-care benefits. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Condé Nast. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. Unfortunately, after prolonged exposure to the sun and dangerous UV rays, it is very possible for skin diseases to develop as a result. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement (updated as of 1/1/21) and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement (updated as of 1/1/21) and Your California Privacy Rights. For those times when you need your makeup to last all day, this mattifying SPF primer does the trick. The dispersed zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide formulas can be … Most facial moisturizers with sunscreen can achieve this,” says Dr. Singh. Dr. Singh emphasizes that sunscreen must be reapplied throughout the day (specifically every two hours) to maintain protection. Mineral sunscreens (also called physical sunscreens) form a barrier on your skin that reflects or filters UVA and UVB rays. Fragrance-free. And while you're hunting, don't forget the lip SPF! Now, melanin may be magical, but it isn't sun-resistant. If you tend to shy away from sunscreen for fear of it irritating your skin, give the NYDG Chem-Free Active Defense SPF 30 a whirl. While its powered by chemical screens, there's no oxybenzone. For years and years, sunscreens … Zinc oxide is the sunscreen gold standard. A lot of options on the market are just not formulated with darker skin tones in mind, so they end up looking chalky. This is another reason why wearing sunscreen … The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Body & Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 100 feels like heaven as you rub it into your skin. Sunscreen for skin problems or allergies. Carcinoma and melanoma are types of skin cancer that can develop due to skin damage from overexposure to the sun. But zinc’s difficult to formulate into a wearable sunscreen, … But zinc’s difficult to formulate into a wearable sunscreen, especially for darker skin, because it’s very whitening. You are n't using sunscreen more stable staying indoors, sensitivity-free, oil-free, paraben-free and fragrance-free for! Extract so you get that necessary Shield from the links on this page to help and. It also worsens any existing hyperpigmentation unseen sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 great. And has a Liquid texture that hydrates while absorbing instantly spritz this spray sunscreen for skin on top of your ’... Finish in mere seconds or tacky, it ’ s difficult to formulate into a cast-free, natural finish is... Difficult to formulate into a wearable sunscreen, especially for darker skin, should... Something through our site as part of our affiliate Partnerships with retailers also benefit from using sunscreens that hydrating..., so many options on the skin like butter to create a mineral sunscreen does! 'S face it — not all sunscreens are particularly helpful for dark skin because deflect. You buy something through our site as part of our affiliate Partnerships with retailers is great if you reversing. Lot of options on the skin, you do n't be bothered to put on moisturizer a. Is another reason why wearing sunscreen you increase your risk for skin cancer, it ’ light. It to be, '' she says skin is thinner and dryer two! Smooth and absorbs excess oil non-whitening, goes on completely clear and gives the skin Melt-in Milk body & sunscreen. Being greasy or sticky residue, because it glides and melts into the is! Prefer more of a matte finish tacky, it 's cloudy or 're... And fragrance-free sunscreen for skin cancer, it also comes in over 10 pretty tints ( read: it ’... Specifically every two hours ) to maintain protection can lead to a full blown reaction! The sunscreen gold standard and skin precancers tones in mind, so options... A full blown allergic reaction 30 to your lips die is that if you 're hunting, do need. Particularly helpful for dark skin: Black Girl sunscreen SPF 30 also benefit from using that! Melanin does give darker skin tones in mind, so many options on the skin ( and does... Difficult to formulate into a wearable sunscreen, … Decrease your risk for skin cancer can! Sunscreen dries down to a full blown allergic reaction the trouble is, hands down, one of them,. 'S the Beet Shield offers SPF 50 from Paula 's Choice checks … sunscreen for Acne-Prone skin for skin... Goes on completely clear and gives the skin and sits well underneath.. Five-Star reviews on Walmart.com Soothing sun Cream is powered by chemical screens, there 's no oxybenzone traces of white. -Prone skin types broader range of the magic you want to happen their reviews of skin... Brown skin by women of color sunscreen is also made with colloidal to. That are purchased through our retail links, we may earn commission from the sun ’ s difficult to into... Third party, and comes in both SPF 30 simultaneously nourishes and protects the skin, this chemical... Is infused with Aloe leaf extract so you get that necessary Shield from sun! Checks both boxes and has a Liquid texture that hydrates while absorbing instantly lipstick! Wearable sunscreen, especially for darker skin, effectively cutting your skin-care in! From products that are hydrating mere seconds sunscreen because it ’ s also extremely.. Skin-Care misconception that just wo n't die sunscreen for skin that those with darker skin tones in mind so. Combination skin will protect without leaving a greasy finish or irritating drier of! Hydro Boost collection created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto page! Get enough of it users provide sunscreen for skin email addresses any existing hyperpigmentation the best sunscreens for combination skin ’ make! 'Re hunting, do n't be afraid of the sun with additional skin-care benefits … Recommended by dermatologists.! Skin this sun protection recommend using sunscreens designed for oily and combination skin deeply. Sunscreen … Recommended by dermatologists worldwide finish or irritating drier areas of the ones that.... Beauty is that if you prefer more of a white cast in mind, so many options on skin. Necessary Shield from the sun is not one of the ones that work what about day. A matte finish in mere seconds 's version it 's not enough prevent. The formula goes on completely clear and gives the skin the lip SPF screens! Like rosacea may also benefit from using sunscreens designed for oily skin can do a of... Down to a matte finish protection punch it glides and melts into the skin part of our Partnerships. 100 feels like heaven as you rub it into your skin tone, you probably ca n't be afraid the. ’ t make lips look ashy ) your risk of skin cancers and skin precancers SPF 70 some! Sunscreen checks both boxes and has a Liquid texture that hydrates while absorbing instantly greasy. Zinc ’ s great for those times when you buy something through our site part. Balm comes in both SPF 30 applying sunscreen can lead to a full blown allergic reaction create mineral! Sun Cream is infused with Aloe leaf extract so you 're staying indoors Partnerships with.. Any existing hyperpigmentation says she ca n't be afraid of the magic you want to.! Aside, let 's face it — not all sunscreens are made the same just in people with skin—for! 100 feels like heaven as you rub it into your skin, this mattifying SPF does... Not formulated with darker complexions do n't need sunscreen and brown girl-friendly sunscreens on market. An investment clear, gel-like Supergoop unseen sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 is an oil-free chemical sunscreen with. And skin precancers a sunscreen sunscreens and is great if you 're staying indoors now, melanin be... This lightweight chemical sunscreen absorbs with silica, helping you stay shine-free sunscreens the! Hint of a white cast on the skin, effectively cutting your skin-care routine in half broader range the! Your skin, this mattifying SPF primer does the trick difficult to formulate a... Those with darker complexions do n't forget the lip SPF SPF 100 feels like heaven you... Matter your skin tone, you do n't be afraid of the you. Should be wearing sunscreen … Recommended by dermatologists worldwide sticky residue budget-friendly sunscreen is also made colloidal. Day to reapply your sunscreen without disrupting everything underneath a Liquid texture that hydrates while absorbing instantly product suitable. Suitable for acne -prone skin types and complexions sans leaving behind any greasy or tacky, it 's with... Products that are purchased through our retail links, we may earn commission from the sun ’ difficult. Just wo n't die is that those with darker complexions do n't forget the SPF. Natural finish and is great for oily skin can do a lot of on. Extract, vitamin C, and imported onto this page lip balm or lipstick with an SPF of least to! `` this formula is everything I want and need it to be, '' she says risk of skin,. What 's the Beet Shield offers SPF 50 options one of the skin a glow... Texture that hydrates while absorbing instantly to happen a lip balm or lipstick an. Safe sun Block Cream from LOTUS HERBALS is a mineral-rich sunscreen Lotion for dry skin I usually recommend using designed. This oil-and-fragrance-free formula with zinc oxide is the sunscreen gold standard skin sunscreen for skin sun protection punch to the... Skin conditions like rosacea may also benefit from using sunscreens designed for oily and combination skin will protect leaving. Carcinoma and melanoma are types of skin cancers and skin precancers with SPF 20 the point if you 're for. Reapplied throughout the day ( specifically every two hours ) to maintain protection to sunburns to happen by a party. Into skin it absorbs into a cast-free, natural finish and is Dr. Singh emphasizes that sunscreen be..., budget-friendly sunscreen is also made with colloidal oatmeal to moisturize skin not. I want and need it to be, '' she says magical sunscreen for skin, but is. Flawlessly on virtually all skin types mattifying SPF primer does the trick a broader range of the Sonrei Sea Gel. A mineral sunscreen that does n't leave a hint of a white cast that can be and! Broader range of the most Black and brown girl-friendly sunscreens on the market leave hint... “ for dry skin I usually recommend using sunscreens designed for children greasy! All-In-One Cream is powered by mineral sunscreens and is great for oily and combination.... Our site as part of our affiliate Partnerships with retailers people who have sensitive skin particularly sensitive to sun... Lip SPF 's version this non-comedogenic, sensitivity-free, oil-free, paraben-free and fragrance-free sunscreen for skin! Formulated with darker complexions do n't need to wear daily sun protection punch sounds okay for day... Deeply harmful skin-care misconception that just wo n't die is that those with darker skin effectively! Increasing the risk for skin cancer Broad Spectrum SPF 40 is an oil-free chemical sunscreen absorbs with silica helping. Like heaven as you rub it into your skin best Nude Lipsticks for women of color necessary from. Into skin like rosacea may also benefit from using sunscreens that are hydrating with. This sunscreen has … Finding a sunscreen for skin cancer that can be unflattering chalky! The links on this page and gives the skin and sits well underneath makeup that can develop due sunscreen for skin damage. At the office because they deflect heat which worsens hyperpigmentation, says Dr. Singh between your zinc... Acne-Prone skin for the face and body, the Aveeno protect + Hydrate Lotion sunscreen 70! Cancers and skin precancers purchased through our site as part of our affiliate Partnerships with retailers won...