Your skin may be darker, but that doesn’t mean it’s invincible.
A common misconception among the Black community is that sunscreen isn’t necessary. In reality, sunburn and sun impacts go beyond merely the color or shade of your skin. Black people can suffer negative consequences just like those with fair skin, and in some cases, even worse outcomes over time, because they don’t notice them as easily.
The only question is: what kind of sunscreen is right for you?
If you’re looking for products ideal for shielding against UV damage, you’re probably overwhelmed. After all, there are so many options. Which sunscreens contain the right ingredients, and which ones should you avoid due to their harsh chemicals?
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Don’t feel overwhelmed.
Let’s break down the five essential ingredients every healthy sunscreen should have—and those to avoid—for optimal skin health.
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Why Sunscreen Matters for Black Skin
Sunscreen is non-negotiable, even for darker skin tones. While melanin certainly offers defense against UV rays, it doesn’t mean you’re magically immune to skin damage. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, Black individuals are actually more likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer at later stages, which reduces their survival rates.
And then there’s hyperpigmentation, which UV exposure can worsen for many Black individuals. When this happens, the skin develops dark, unsightly spots that can be embarrassing, demoralizing, and downright disturbing to look at.
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Fortunately, sunscreen can address this before it’s an issue. Sunscreen not only prevents sunburn but also protects against long-term damage like fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
But first, you need the right sunscreen…
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Must-Have Ingredients for Healthy Sunscreen
1. Zinc Oxide
If you haven’t heard of zinc oxide, it’s a mineral-based ingredient that provides broad-spectrum protection. In other words, it blocks both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
Generally speaking, the problem with many chemical sunscreens is that they actually absorb UV rays, which is not nearly as useful as having zinc oxide. With zinc oxide, it just sits on the skin’s surface and instead reflects the rays, thereby reducing the risk of irritation. This is especially important for Black skin, which is usually more sensitive to certain chemicals.
2. Niacinamide
Also called vitamin B3, niacinamide can do a lot of good for your skin, whether extremely sensitive or thick and strong. The beauty of vitamin B3 is that it not only protects but also repairs. It helps reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin transfer, which plays a crucial role in dark spots. Additionally, niacinamide bolsters the skin’s barrier, making it easier to hold moisture.
With better moisture retention, your skin looks better, feels better, and is overall more resilient.
3. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that works by neutralizing ‘free radicals’ or tiny molecules that can wreak havoc in the body. See, when you’re exposed to UV rays, your body generates these radicals. These radicals then start to break down your collagen, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.
Because darker skin is more prone to dryness, vitamin E is a must.
If used consistently, vitamin E has been shown to reduce oxidative stress, keeping your skin cells younger and fresher. To avoid premature aging of the skin, look for topical products that prioritize vitamin E.
4. Titanium Dioxide
Similar to zinc oxide, titanium dioxide is a mineral sunscreen ingredient that offers broad-spectrum protection. It doesn’t penetrate the skin but rather sits upon it and reduces the likelihood of irritation or allergic reaction.
It’s usually used in conjunction with zinc oxide to improve coverage. According to research from Dermatologic Therapy, titanium dioxide is a powerful way to protect sensitive skin types.
5. Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is great for hydration. During those hot summer months, it’s especially useful, as it can draw moisture into your skin, keeping it plump and supple. If you constantly find yourself drying out and feeling like your skin is ‘cracking,’ then HA may just be perfect for you.
Tired of a dull complexion where fine lines and wrinkles are overemphasized? Then, definitely look into sunscreens containing this acid. Your skin will become smoother, more elastic, and healthier overall.
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Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreens
Now that we’ve mentioned what you should look for in sunscreens, let’s get into what you should absolutely avoid. The following ingredients are not good for a variety of reasons, mostly because they are harsh chemicals that irritate the skin.
However, in some cases, they can do far worse than that…
1. Ethanol (Alcohol)
Ethanol, or alcohol, is frequently put in sunscreens to create a quick-drying, lightweight feel. While this may seem like a good thing in the short term, it can be extremely drying and irritating in time. The reason for this is that alcohol strips the skin of its natural oils, weakening the barrier and increasing sensitivity. Whenever possible, purchase alcohol-free formulas for optimum results.
2. Parabens
You might have heard of parabens, but if you haven’t, you don’t need to look far to understand their negative effects. Basically, parabens are preservatives used to extend the shelf life of cosmetics. Only one problem – they’re linked to hormone dysfunction!
This happens because these chemicals mimic the hormone estrogen, and when they do, they potentially increase the risk of breast cancer and reproductive issues. Research from Environmental Health Perspectives sounds the alarm on parabens’ endocrine-disrupting effects.
Whatever you do, definitely steer clear of these preservative chemicals.
3. Oxybenzone
Another common chemical found in sunscreen, oxybenzone, absorbs UV rays at a significant cost. Like parabens, it has been linked to hormone disruption and can even cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Studies also indicate that oxybenzone is bad for marine life and is believed to contribute to the bleaching of coral reefs. Alarmingly, many researchers now believe that oxybenzone is absorbed into the bloodstream far quicker than previously thought.
So, do your best to avoid it. As you go shopping for sunscreens, it’s a good idea to look out for other harmful ingredients as well. Sadly, there are many, but some of the main culprits include retinyl palmitate, homosalate, and octinoxate, which can all affect the body negatively.
You’ve got this. Bring a checklist with you, take your time, and find the sunscreen that is best for your body and goals. If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, SPF 50+ is recommended. However, if you’re just seeking a broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 and above should suffice.
With a little research and some proactive steps, you’ll find the perfect nourishment and protection your body’s largest organ, your skin, deserves!
