Do Black People Need Sunscreen?

Have you ever heard someone say, “Black people don’t need sunscreen”? The belief that Black people do not need sunscreen because of their skin color is one of those long-standing myths that just won’t go away. While it’s true that melanin offers some level of natural sun protection, yet, it definitely doesn’t make darker skin immune to damage. 

One thing is sure, and that is that UV rays don’t discriminate. Black skins are just as susceptible to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer as other skin tones. Sometimes, the consequences may even be more severe as a result of delayed diagnosis. Let’s break down why sun protection is important for all skin tones and how you can choose the best sunscreen for melanin-rich skin.

Understanding Melanin and UV Protection

What Is Melanin, and Does It Protect the Skin?

Melanin is a dark brown to black pigment that determines skin color, with darker skin naturally containing more of it. This added melanin does offer some protection from sunburn by absorbing and dispersing UV rays. This protection is roughly equivalent to SPF 13. However, it does not block all UV radiation, and long-term exposure can still lead to a lot of skin damage. 

But here’s the catch: For adequate protection from the sun, dermatologists recommend SPF 30 or higher. This means that melanin alone isn’t enough to prevent sun damage. Over time, continuous exposure without adequate protection can weaken the skin’s barrier, making it more prone to irritation, dryness, and environmental stressors.

Can Black People Get Sunburned?

Yes, and it happens more often than many people realize. The symptoms may not be as obvious as that of other skin tones because darker skin doesn’t always turn red. But sunburn can show up on dark skin as warmth, dryness, tenderness, or peeling. In some cases, the affected skin may become itchy or feel unusually tight.

If left untreated, repeated sunburns can contribute to heightened skin sensitivity and increase the likelihood of long-term pigmentation issues. Even if burning isn’t frequent, continuous exposure to UV rays over a lengthy period can speed up skin damage over time and increase the risk of serious health concerns. In some cases, one may even be at risk of DNA damage at a cellular level.

The Risks of Skipping Sunscreen for Black Skin

When people with black skin fail to use sunscreen, they expose themselves to the following:

1. Increased Risk of Skin Cancer

The risk of skin cancer development may be less common in Black individuals. But studies show that when it does occur, it’s usually detected at later stages. This late diagnosis leads to lower survival rates compared to white patients. For instance, Acral lentiginous melanoma, affects more Black people than people of other skin tones. This quick-spreading skin cancer often appears on areas like the palms and soles, where it may go unnoticed.

Lack of awareness and limited routine skin checks by Black people contribute to the delayed detection of skin cancer. This makes it even more important to take proactive sun protection seriously. Regular sunscreen use is one of the easiest ways to lower this risk, coupled with routine dermatologist visits for full-body skin examinations.

2. Hyperpigmentation and Uneven Skin Tone

One of the biggest skin concerns in the Black community is hyperpigmentation. You know those stubborn dark patches that can linger for months and sometimes resist treatment. The leading cause of hyperpigmentation is sun damage. Even when this condition results from other factors like inflammation and hormonal changes, sun exposure can worsen pigmentation issues and even create new ones. This makes sunscreen a non-negotiable step in any skincare routine. 

You may be undoing all your hard work if you’re investing in serums and treatments to even out your complexion but skipping SPF. Additionally, unprotected sun exposure can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) to darken and take even longer to fade. Wearing sunscreen daily helps prevent these issues and increases the effectiveness of your skincare products.

3. Premature Aging & Wrinkles

Contrary to the popular belief that “Black don’t crack,” prolonged sun exposure does break down collagen and elastin and result in fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. While melanin slows this process, it doesn’t stop it entirely. 

Sun damage can also contribute a great deal to uneven skin texture and make it harder to achieve a smooth, radiant complexion. The secret to keeping skin youthful is the application of sunscreen every single day. This should, of course, be combined with a proper skincare routine that includes hydration and antioxidants.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Darker Skin Tones

When choosing a sunscreen for Black skin, here are the things to look out for:

• Broad-spectrum (this protects the skin against both UVA & UVB rays)
• SPF 30 or higher
• Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
• Sunscreen with hyaluronic acid or glycerin (these ingredients help to keep the skin to retain moisture and stay hydrated)

Best Sunscreens for Black Skin to Avoid White Cast

White cast is the visible white residue that remains after you apply sunscreen. White cast is one dreaded major complaint about sunscreen. The white residue is from the mineral-based ingredients, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, that are used in making traditional sunscreens. The residue is not always white and can sometimes leave a purple or bluish tint.

To avoid white cast, go for:

• Chemical sunscreens (formulas that absorb without leaving a cast)
• Tinted mineral sunscreens (designed to blend seamlessly with darker skin)
• Gel-based or lightweight formulas (which feel breathable and invisible)

How to Incorporate Sunscreen Into Your Daily Routine

When and How Often to Apply Sunscreen

• Apply sunscreen every morning, even if you’re staying indoors. You are not only exposed to UV rays when outdoors because the rays can penetrate windows.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours if you’re outside, sweating, or swimming.
• Use a nickel-sized amount for your face and a shot-glass amount for your body.

Sunscreen in Makeup and Skincare Products

• Many moisturizers and foundations include SPF, but they’re not enough on their own.
• Always apply a dedicated sunscreen before makeup for full protection.

Common Myths About Sunscreen and Dark Skin

The following are common beliefs about sunscreen and dark skin:

1. Black People Don’t Get Skin Cancer

This is false. Melanin indeed provides some protection against skin cancer, yet it doesn’t make Black skin immune. UV radiation can still penetrate deeply, cause DNA damage, and increase the risk of skin cancer over time. 

Many cases of melanoma in Black individuals develop in areas that are not frequently exposed to the sun, making regular skin checks even more important. Early detection and prevention are vital, as catching skin abnormalities sooner leads to significantly better outcomes.

2. I Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days

Sun exposure happens even when the sky looks gray because UV rays penetrate through clouds. In fact, up to 80% of UV radiation can pass through clouds, making overcast days just as risky for your skin. Many people assume they are safe from sun damage when it’s cloudy, and this leads to accidental exposure. This is why dermatologists stress the importance of wearing sunscreen daily, no matter the weather conditions.

3. Sunscreen Is Only for the Summer

UV damage occurs year-round, even in winter. Snow and ice can reflect UV rays, nearly doubling your exposure and making sunscreen protection just as important in colder months. Moreover, indoor heating can dry out the skin and make it more vulnerable to environmental damage when combined with unprotected sun exposure. You should protect your skin daily, no matter the season. 

4. Sun Can’t Penetrate through Windows

There is only one kind of radiation that glass filters, and that is UVB rays. UVA rays can still get through glass windows and do great damage. Have you ever wondered why many adults have a lot more freckles on the left side of their faces than on the right? It is because of the exposure to UV rays through the car windows. Ensure you apply sunscreen on exposed parts of your body (face, forearms, hands) before you get into the car. 

5. Too Much Sunscreen Causes Vitamin D Deficiency

You may have been told that you need extra exposure to sunshine to help your body make vitamin D. But according to the American Cancer Society (ACS), kids and adults alike, get plenty of this nutrient through multivitamins, vitamin D-rich foods (like milk and fortified orange juice), and everyday sun exposure. Also, even if you’re wearing sunscreen, small amounts of UV rays still penetrate your skin, and that’s more than enough to help your body produce vitamin D.

Bottom Line: Sunscreen Matters Regardless of Skin Color

Sunscreen isn’t just for fair-skinned individuals. It’s important for everyone, regardless of skin tone. Melanin offers a layer of defense, but it’s not enough to fully protect against sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and the risk of skin cancer.

To ensure that your skin is youthful, healthy, radiant, find an SPF formula that suits your skin type and apply it daily. When you make sunscreen a daily habit, you’re investing in your skin’s long-term health and beauty. The effort you put in today will eventually pay off in the long run.

FAQs About Sunscreen and Black Skin

What SPF should I use if I have dark skin?

SPF 30 or higher is recommended for adequate protection. If you spend extended time outdoors or have a history of hyperpigmentation, using SPF 50 can provide even better defense against UV damage. Consistent reapplication of sunscreen throughout the day ensures you maintain proper protection, especially if you sweat or swim.

Can I use coconut oil or natural oils instead of sunscreen?

No. Natural oils do not provide sufficient UV protection and should never replace sunscreen. While some oils, like raspberry seed oil, offer minimal UV-blocking properties, they are nowhere near as effective as properly formulated sunscreens. When you rely on natural oils alone, your skin becomes vulnerable to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

What’s the best way to remove sunscreen without clogging pores?

Use an oil cleanser or micellar water first. Then, follow this up with a mild facial cleanser to remove all sunscreen residue. Finish up with a hydrating toner to help restore the skin’s pH balance and keep it feeling fresh.

Written by Juliet (Chisom) I.