The 7 Best Sunscreens For Black Women

Thanks to the abundant presence of melanin in black skin, people with darker skin have some protection against sun rays, which can be harmful to the skin.

However, even darker skin needs protection from the sun.

Despite having a form of protection due to melanin, dark skin tones still require defense against the UVA and UVB rays of our sun. Sunscreen does a great job at this, but not just any sunscreen will do, for darker skin, you need a much stronger formula.

To adequately cater to your darker skin, sunscreen must be applied daily and liberally.

I’ve rounded up some of the best sunscreens that could work best for you and that you can incorporate into your daily skincare routine.

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Best Sunscreens For Dark Skin Tones

1. Black Girl Sunscreen

This product is specially designed for black skin. If you’re Black and have struggled with finding sunscreen to properly protect and care for your skin, this Black women-owned sunscreen could be the right choice for you.

This product is especially great if you’re looking for a moisturizing SPF.

It has a lightweight application, cruelty-free ingredients, a pleasant smell, and leaves no white cast after application.

2. Elta MD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

The gentle formula has a broad-spectrum SPF 46, as well as niacinamide and lactic acid, to clear pores and reduce shine, which makes it a great choice for acne-prone skin, it contains ingredients like niacinamide and lactic acid to control oil.

This sheer facial sunscreen offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection without leaving a white cast.

It also contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, ingredients that help calm and protect sensitive skin.

It’s also lightweight and oil-free.

3. CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 

This sunscreen is formulated with three essential ceramides to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier while also protecting it.

It also contains hyaluronic acid to help hydrate skin.

4. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen, SPF 55

This sunscreen goes on clear and non-greasy, so it won’t leave any white cast.

It’s a lightweight lotion that’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so it’s great if you’re going swimming and is specifically formulated to keep skin hydrated and soft.

It’s also fragrance-free and oil-free, so it’s perfect for black women with sensitive skin.

5. Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer, SPF 15

This daily moisturizer not only provides UVA and UVB protection, but it also contains soy complex to even out skin tone and texture and is also highly hydrating.

It’s hypoallergenic and oil-free, making it a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin.

6. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen, SPF 60

This sunscreen is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores.

It also contains silica, which helps absorb oils and gives skin a matte finish. It offers powerful UVA and UVB protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so is great to take on vacation.

7. SUN & SHINE MINERAL SUNSCREEN LOTION: SPF50

This is a fantastic product that provides SPF50 broad spectrum UVA UVB protection for the face and neck.

This sunscreen lotion is enriched with zinc oxide and is suitable for sensitive skin.

It is a great product to have in your skincare collection to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun and prevent sunburn.

Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, no matter the time of year or your skin color.

With the right knowledge of ingredients and an understanding of your skin type and needs, you can choose the best sunscreens for your needs and ensure your skin is properly cared for.

Remember to apply sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days, and to reapply often when engaging in outdoor activities or swimming. Sunscreen is your best defense against sun damage and skin cancer, so make sure you use one that works for you!