One of the biggest myths in skincare is that those of us with more melanin don’t need sunscreen.
While skin cancer is less prevalent in the black community despite a great deal of us not actively practicing preventive measures against sun damage, this does not mean that we are immune to it.
Studies show that black people—in comparison to our non-black counterparts—are less likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer; however, when a diagnosis does occur, we are four times more likely to be diagnosed with an advanced form of cancer and 1.5 times more likely to die from it.
In other words, sunscreen is a no-skip skincare product—no matter how much melanin you have.
The issue, however, is twofold. Because there’s a lack of awareness and funding for research when it comes to assessing the effects of the sun on darker skin tones, there’s also a lack of protective skincare products that are a good choice for black people all around.
The biggest issue being ineffectiveness, as well as that unsightly white film sunscreen tends to leave on darker skin.
Fortunately, there are a few companies doing their part to close the gap for black girls and women looking to better care for their skin. Here are 4 black girl-friendly sunscreens that are must-haves for the springtime.
Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 ($19)
Created to start a conversation around sun safety education within the Black community, this daily wear sunscreen is for us, by us.
It’s an ultra-sheer, water-resistant formula that not only protects your skin from sun damage but also doubles as a moisturizing lotion.
Formulated with jojoba and avocado oil, this sunscreen uses natural, cruelty-free ingredients to give your skin a layer of protection along with a healthy glow.
Black Girl Sunscreen also dries completely clear, meaning it can be worn before and after all outdoor activities, and underneath your makeup with no problem.
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Face Invisible Moisturizer SPF 30 ($35)
For those of you who are looking for a good moisturizer, but can’t seem to find one that works well with oily skin, this 2-in-1 moisturizer and sunscreen is a great choice.
It offers intense hydration and moisture without feeling oily or heavy on your skin.
Its formula is so lightweight and buildable that it can be effortlessly layered with makeup and other skincare products.
Plus, there’s a light pink tint that eliminates all chalkiness on darker skin tones, while also giving your skin a nice, natural-looking glow.
Glossier Invisible Shield Daily Moisturizer SPF 35 ($25)
There is plenty of ultra-hydrating and moisturizing sunscreens out there, but finding a solid sunscreen with more of a matte finish can be a bit of a task.
Characterizing itself as “the sunscreen for people who hate wearing sunscreen”, it effectively makes it feel and look like it’s not even there.
Made with a water-gel formula that absorbs into the skin, this sunscreen leaves zero white cast (which means no flashback in photos!) or greasy residue.
Pipette Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($17)
The difference between a mineral and chemical sunscreen is that mineral sunscreens use their ingredients to form a physical barrier to protect against UV rays.
Though you could actually make a case for mineral sunscreens being no more effective than chemical formulas, this sunscreen actually utilizes clean ingredients for the sake of protecting marine life from harmful ingredients.
Just like the aforementioned products, this sunscreen absorbs into the skin nicely and leaves nothing behind, but also has the added benefit of being environment-friendly.
