What sunscreen is best for dark skin?

Why does dark skin need sunscreen?

Melanin gives dark skin some additional, minimal protection from UV rays, but it is not enough to rely on alone. People with dark skin can still sunburn and develop skin cancer. Sun exposure can worsen dark spots and speed skin aging, and skin cancer in darker skin is often advanced by the time it is diagnosed.13

What should you look for on the label?

SPF describes protection mainly from UVB, the main cause of sunburn; broad spectrum protection covers both UVA and UVB. That three item check gives sunscreen shopping a faintly bureaucratic streak, because the SPF number has two colleagues to bring along.24

Does mineral or organic sunscreen work better?

Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide broad protection, but mineral is a filter category, not a texture promise. Mineral filters protect mainly by absorbing UV radiation, as organic filters do. The finished formula matters more than the filter family alone: a sunscreen that feels bad or leaves a chalky finish is less likely to be used consistently.45

Which formula should you choose?

• If white residue is your main concern, try a tinted formula that matches your skin tone.
• If you have acne prone or oily skin, look for noncomedogenic or won't clog pores on the label.
• If your skin is sensitive, choose a sunscreen labeled sensitive skin and avoid fragrance, parabens or oxybenzone.
• If sunscreen stings or burns when you apply it, choose one with only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and avoid fragrance.

How do you use it?

Use sunscreen daily. For prolonged time outdoors, choose a higher SPF, greater than 50. Apply it before going out and use enough to reach the labeled SPF.34

1. 1Apply before going out, using enough sunscreen to maintain its stated SPF.
2. 2Give it five to ten minutes to settle and blend in.
3. 3Reapply every two hours.

Sunscreen is one part of sun protection. Seek shade and cover your skin with sun protective clothing, a wide brimmed hat and UV blocking sunglasses.7

What should you check for on your skin?

Skin cancer can appear in areas that get little sun, including the palms, soles, fingers and toes, nails and mouth. Look for spots or moles that grow, bleed, itch or change, and sores that do not heal. If you notice a suspicious spot or patch, make an appointment with a board certified dermatologist.1

How do you avoid white cast from sunscreen on dark skin?

Start with a tinted sunscreen that matches your skin tone. A tint can reduce white residue, but keep checking for SPF 30 or higher, broad spectrum protection and water resistance. Some ultrafine mineral filters also leave less visible residue than other mineral formulas.24

What sunscreen ingredients leave a white cast?

Formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can leave a white cast and feel heavy. These mineral filters do not all look the same on skin: ultrafine grades can reduce visible residue and improve ease of application.45

Is tinted sunscreen good for dark skin?

Yes. Tinted sunscreens with iron oxides also help protect darker skin from indoor light, including light from screens. The tint can do useful visible light work, which is a better job than negotiating with the mirror.23