When it comes to skin care, a huge misconception among people of colour is that we don't need to wear sunscreen. It's a myth that's been around for ages due to many people's belief that having melanin in our skin is protection enough, but the truth is that melanin alone can't protect you or your skin from UV rays. Darker skin is actually more prone to things like sun damage, skin cancer, and pigmentation, and skin cancer that's diagnosed in many people of colour is often met with grim outcomes [1] because of late detection. For that reason, you should still be applying sunscreen every day.
Of course, finding a great sunscreen isn't always easy for Black people, since so many products are made with formulas that leave white casts on the skin. That said, there are still some amazing SPF products out there that Black women love — and we asked four to share their favourites, ahead.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
"Initially I thought the Supergoop brand was just a trendy line of sunscreen all the influencers and beauty editors were raving about — then I tried the Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 [2] ($34) and completely understand why it's a cult favourite.
It's lightweight, has no scent, and won't leave your skin feeling like you applied a layer of oil to your face. I wear this sunscreen religiously and although it's pricey, I've had the same bottle for over a year and it's definitely worth the investment." — Tamara Pridgett, assistant fitness editor
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
"Even though I've been staying at home, I've been keeping sunscreen in my daily skin-care routine because I don't need to damage my skin on top of everything else going down in 2020. I have a couple of tried-and-true favourites, but my go-to is absolutely Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 [3] ($19).
Obviously, I'm always here to support Black-owned business, but BGS is one of the few sunscreens that truly doesn't leave an ashy cast on my skin. It's made for melanin, cruelty free, vegan, and affordable? Honestly, we don't deserve it. Whether you're Black or not (though especially if you're Black), I highly recommend you get a tube or several." — Mekishana Pierre, assistant entertainment editor
Image Skincare Prevention+ Daily Matte Moisturiser SPF 32
"I randomly pocketed the Image Skincare Prevention+ Daily Matte Moisturiser SPF 32 [4] ($44) during a beauty sale at a past job and it surprisingly turned out to be one of the best skin-care decisions I've ever made. This sunscreen is thick, creamy, and hydrating, but it doesn't feel super heavy on my skin. As a bonus, it also doesn't leave behind a white residue or cast, which is always a great thing to not have to worry about." — Danielle Jackson, assistant beauty editor
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+ Sunscreen
"My absolute favourite sunscreen is the Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+ Sunscreen [5] ($49). Since I wear a lot of makeup it feels more like a moisturiser, which I love. It never compromises other skin and makeup products I apply!" — Rachael Edwards, social media coordinator
Carol's Daughter Monoi Body Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 30
"I know it's important to wear sunscreen but in the past, I've opted not to wear it or not apply it consistently because of the scent. I've spent years searching for a sunscreen that doesn't smell aggressive (in addition to not leaving me with a white cast or feeling sticky) and the Carol's Daughter Monoi Body Oil Spray Sunscreen SPF 30 [6] ($23) meets all of my requirements.
Because it's an oil, I thought I would end up feeling supergreasy but I was wrong. It's moisturising and leaves my skin with a nice shine. It smells great and is also really easy to apply. I've worn it to lay out on my roof and during more strenuous activities, like a 6.8 mile hike, and have no complaints." — TP
Murad Resurgence Age–Balancing Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30
"The Murad Resurgence Age–Balancing Moisture Broad Spectrum SPF 30 [7] ($74) is another sunscreen that I've found myself using consistently. Again, it doesn't leave behind any residue, but it also makes my skin feel so healthy and hydrated every time I apply it. It's definitely worth the splurge." — DJ