Why sunscreen matters for darker skin

Darker skin can still develop skin cancer, and visible light can darken skin and worsen hyperpigmentation. Sun protection can reduce discoloration and help fade dark spots, so sunscreen is useful even if you do not burn easily.12

What to look for

Use SPF 30 or higher for daily wear. SPF 50 is a sensible choice for long outdoor days, and water resistance matters if you expect to swim or sweat. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB, not just the rays that cause sunburn. A pricey tube cannot buy its way past the label: broad spectrum has to be there in print.134

For extra visible light protection, look for a tinted formula with iron oxides, which are listed among inactive ingredients. Choose a shade with your skin tone and undertone in mind; a universal shade suits many people, but matching still matters.2

Chemical or mineral sunscreen?

Both types can protect against UVA and UVB when the product is broad spectrum, so filter type does not replace checking the SPF and broad spectrum label.3

TypeWhat to expectA reasonable fit if
ChemicalFilters include avobenzone, oxybenzone or octinoxate. Some formulas are clear or transparent.Visible residue makes regular use harder for you.
MineralFilters include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Some formulas leave a white or gray cast, though formulations have improved.You have had irritation from certain chemical sunscreen ingredients.
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Mineral sunscreen can suit people with sensitive skin who have been irritated by certain chemical sunscreen ingredients. During pregnancy, both types can be appropriate, though some dermatologists prefer mineral formulas because little zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is absorbed through the skin.3

How to apply it

  1. 1Use sunscreen every day on exposed skin. For your face and neck, aim for about a nickel sized amount.
  2. 2Cover the hairline, ears, neck and tops of your feet, because sunscreen is not a precision instrument and missed spots do not count as protected by association.
  3. 3Reapply every two hours outdoors. Reapply after swimming, sweating, towel drying, or if sunscreen has rubbed off. Choose a water resistant formula if you will be swimming or sweating.
  4. 4If you use a spray sunscreen, apply it generously and rub it in for even coverage.
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What sunscreen can do for dark spots

Sun protection can reduce the chance of further discoloration and help existing dark spots fade. Think of sunscreen as protection and support for fading, not an instant spot eraser. No sunscreen blocks all UV radiation, so shade, protective clothing, hats and sunglasses add useful coverage.13

Which sunscreen does not leave a white cast on dark skin?

Start with a clear chemical formula or a tinted sunscreen that closely matches your skin tone and undertone. Mineral formulas can leave a white or gray cast, although newer formulas have improved. A sunscreen with a visible white cast can discourage regular use, and chalk is a demanding accessory.34

Is tinted sunscreen a good choice for deeper skin tones?

Check the ingredient list for iron oxides, and choose a tint that suits your tone and undertone; the word tinted on the front alone does not tell you whether iron oxides are included.2

Are chemical sunscreens less likely to leave a white cast?

When should you see a dermatologist?

Arrange a dermatologist appointment for a growing or changing spot, a sore that does not heal or returns, or a new dark line in a nail.1

Where this answer comes from

  1. 1Finding skin cancer in darker skin tonesaad.org
  2. 2The latest in sun protectionaad.org
  3. 3Facebookhealth.clevelandclinic.org
  4. 4Sunscreen recommendations for patients with skin of color in the popular press and in the dermatology clinicpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. 5Sunscreen and sun safetynhs.uk