We outside! The sun is shining bright all day and setting late in the evening. After the many ups and downs the first half of the year has put us through, it is time to hit up a rooftop bar with the best views and most overpriced drinks. Before you line up for the day party, let’s get real about skincare.
I’ll be honest—as a child, sunscreen was not a priority when we spent the day outside. There were plenty of long summer days in direct sunlight, and the only consequence was darker, richer skin. Don’t get me wrong, sunburn can happen to us! But it’s a lot less common thanks to melanin in our skin.
Despite our natural protection, sunburn is the least dangerous result of going without additional defenses. The sun is responsible for a wide variety of skin diseases, including melanoma, a dangerous form of cancer caused by UV rays.
Fortunately, sunscreen was designed to lessen and prevent the development of diseases caused by the sun. There are two types of sunscreens:
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Physical sunscreens work by using tiny particles, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, that sit on the surface of your skin. These particles act like a shield, reflecting and scattering the sun’s UV rays before they can reach and harm your skin. It’s a simple but effective way to keep your skin protected from the sun.
Chemical sunscreens work a bit differently—they soak into your skin and absorb the sun’s UV rays. Once rays are absorbed, the sunscreen converts them into heat, which your body then releases safely. It’s like turning the sun’s energy into something harmless, so your skin stays protected.
We have scoured multiple stores to discover some of the best black-owned sunscreen brands to shop and use as your protection this summer. These brands have considered the many complexities of melanated skin, making sure we can both stay safe and look great. Find your next sunscreen purchase below!
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Black Girl Sunscreen
It’s all in the name! Founder Shontay Lundy used over $30,000 of her savings to launch a sunscreen line designed by and for Black skin. Black Girl Sunscreen encourages everyone to take charge of their skincare and feel confident and protected whenever they’re out in the sun. They have you covered with lotions, lip care, and even something for the kids.
Urban Hydration
This sunscreen is designed with eczema-prone skin in mind. It helps even out skin tone and shields against environmental aging, keeping your skin healthy and youthful. Perfect for daily use on all skin types—especially eczema-prone skin—this lotion offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection and deep moisture without silicones, parabens, or sulfates.
Bolden Skincare
Bolden knows that when it comes to facial sunscreen, white cast is not an option. Bolden is the passion project of Chinelo and Ndidi, two dynamic women dedicated to empowering women worldwide by celebrating their natural beauty. Their SPF moisturizer is ethically designed to seamlessly absorb into your skin, protecting from harmful UV rays along with a few other skin-loving benefits.
RELATED: Black Folks Need Sunscreen Too: 5 Sunscreens for Your Skin Type
Undefined
This Black-owned company believes in the power of plants. They have created a sun-resistant elixir that works to brighten and even skin tone while keeping you protected throughout those sunny days. The owner’s mission is to develop high-quality skin products that don’t break the bank, so be prepared to treat yourself without the guilt!
Cay Skin
Model Winnie Harlow ventured into the world of skincare after getting a sunburn that altered the appearance of her skin. Since then, she has worked on developing sunscreen that protects and nourishes the skin. The Isle Glow SPF 45 Body Lotion is crafted with natural ingredients like sea moss and watermelon extract and leaves behind a perfect, golden hour glow when applied.
