Slathering on sunscreen every day might feel like an extra task, but it's an essential part of every beauty routine. Not only will SPF protect you from harmful UV rays (you can see the danger of lack of sun protection here [1]), but it will also help prevent burning, discolouration, and other topical issues from occurring on the skin.
But even though SPF is a crucial part of a skincare regimen, it hasn't always been the most flattering on brown skin. Many formulas have been notorious for leaving behind an ashy blue or grey tint when applied to warm complexions, causing some people of colour to eliminate the step altogether.
The good news, however, is that all sunscreens are not created equal and there are a ton on the market that won't make people of colour look ghostly. If you've been on the hunt for sun protection that won't compromise your complexion, we've tapped the beauty influencers you trust to share which SPF products they use on their brown skin — check them out ahead.
For Blurring Pores
"I love that this sunscreen has no blue cast. It has a creamy, smooth texture that is great for oily skin." — Patricia Bright [3], YouTube beauty and style personality
"This sunscreen is amazing because it applies like a primer: it smooths the skin, blurs pores, and goes on 100 percent clear so there's no white or purple ashy cast." — Jackie Aina [4], YouTube beauty personality
Murad Invisiblur Perfecting Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 30 [5] ($65)
To Use Over and Under Makeup
"This stick is amazing because it goes on completely clear. It can be used under and over makeup and doesn't leave behind a grey cast." — Deepica Mutyala [6], beauty influencer and founder of Live Tinted [7]
Shiseido Wetforce Clear Stick UV Protector Broad Spectrum 50+ [8] ($36)
For the Drugstore-Lover
"If I had to choose just one favourite, I would probably pick the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion. Once blended, it is completely clear and very smooth so it's great to use underneath makeup. Its price point also makes it super accessible to everyone. It truly does the job just as great as all my high-end favourites." — Aysha Harun [9], YouTube beauty and lifestyle personality
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF 50 [10] ($13)
For the Beach
"The Alba Hawaiian Clear Spray Sunscreen is my go-to for Summer. It provides great coverage and has gentle, less-harsh ingredients. I love that it sprays on clear and doesn't give that ashy coating that happens on rich skin tones." — Bri Hall [11], YouTube personality
Alba Hawaiian Clear Spray Sunscreen [12] ($11)
For Discolouration
"My ultimate favourite item for Summer is this sunscreen. I love it because it keeps discolouration on my face in check." —— Iris Beilin [13], YouTube beauty personality
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 [14] ($32)
For Brightening
"My favourite sunscreen has to be the Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA. I never leave my house without it. It is so amazing; you can literally apply it alone and it won't leave a white cast!" — Monica Veloz, YouTube beauty personality [15]
Murad Essential-C Day Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA+++ [16] ($40)