“BLACK SKIN WILL CRACK“

There’s been a longstanding misconception that Black people don’t need to wear sunscreen. Yes, the risks of skin cancer and sunburns are a lot higher in those with fairer skin, but this idea that those with more melanin don’t have to wear it at all just isn’t true. In fact, there are a number of benefits of sunscreen for darker skin that go way beyond protection.

Although dark skin does have some built-in sun protection (thanks, to melanin), it’s still imperative to use SPF to protect it. While sun-induced skin cancer is rarer in darker skin tones, it can happen, and is often caught at a much later stage. “It tends to be more advanced, with poorer outcomes by the time the patient walks in the door,” says Caroline Robinson, M.D., dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology, a practice that specializes in alopecia and ethnic skin dermatology. She says this is partly due to a lack of education of the various risk factors for skin cancer in darker skin tones. Melanin also makes darker skin more highly prone to hyperpigmentation, which can be brought on by sun damage (and pimples, and, says Dr. Robinson, “anything that causes inflammation”). Consistent SPF usage is one of the best ways to avoid this, and some sunscreen products contain ingredients to address hyperpigmentation head on. For patients with stubborn dark marks she recommends reaching for formulas that contain zinc oxide (found in many tinted formulas) which protects skin from the sun, and indoor light (including from our screens).

There are two types of sun protection: physical (which means the sunblock sits on top of the skin and reflects the sun’s rays) and chemical (which absorb into the skin, then absorb UV rays, convert the rays into heat, then releases them from the body). Both options, Dr. Robinson says, are safe options for people of color, and some formulas are a mix of the two. Whatever you choose, it should have an SPF of at least 30 (although higher won’t hurt). And ultimately, the best sunscreen, as Miami based dermatologist Laura Scott, M.D., says, “is one you’ll actually use.”

Now, we know that not all sunscreens are created equal—and, historically, a lot of those options have not been made with melanin in mind, so they end up looking chalky and unflattering. The good news, though, is that thanks to recent advances with innovative textures (think: clear SPF sticks and serums, tinted creams, and non-greasy gel formulas), more skincare companies are offering sunscreens that won’t leave behind a white cast. (As a reminder: You don’t need a bottle of SPF 100; broad-spectrum SPF 30 is enough).

So, to help you pick an invisible SPF that’s right for you, we’ve found (and tested) the best sunscreens for darker skin tones, including a tinted CC cream with SPF 50, a budget-friendly sunscreen-moisturizer hybrid, a pretty lip balm with SPF protection, and a sunscreen made for and by women of color.

Most chemical and physical sunscreens are designed to shield against photo-aging from the sun’s UV rays. Signs of aging include fine lines and wrinkles — and slathering on some SPF at the end of your daily routine can help prevent those symptoms, should you choose.

Almost every dermatologist we spoke to name-dropped Elta MD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46, a chemical-and-physical hybrid option with high levels of zinc-oxide. “I recommend this all the time in my office,” says Dr. Laura Scott. “It’s got niacinamide that calms inflammation and fades dark marks, and a small amount of lactic acid to help gently exfoliate and keep skin glowing.” Three of our other experts mentioned it was safe for acne-prone skin. And according to Rose MD Skincare founder and dermatologist Rose Ingleton, MD, it goes on crystal clear: “It’s very sheer and does not leave a gray hue on the skin,” she says.

NeoStrata Sheer Hydration SPF 35
Our products exfoliate the surface of your skin, revealing fresh, new layers. This product is at the PH level that your skin absorbs most effectively. It targets the building blocks of skin’s matrix for long-term results. NeoStrata Sheer Hydration helps prevent sunburn if used as directed with other sun protection measures (see Directions), decreases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun. Sun exposure can cause photoaging with its associated wrinkling, discoloration, and roughness of the skin. UV rays are not only a concern when spending long periods in the sun but also during incidental sun exposure from everyday activities — walking outside to the mailbox or driving, etc. Help protect your skin from the damaging effects of UV with a sheer sunscreen that can be worn everyday. If used as directed with other sun protection measures (see Directions), it decreases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun.

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Oil-free EltaMD UV Clear facial sunscreen is recommended by dermatologists as it helps calm and protect sensitive skin types prone to acne, rosacea and discoloration. This zinc oxide facial sunscreen with broad- spectrum coverage protects against UVA and UVB rays from the sun. This mineral-based face sunscreen is lightweight, sheer and silky. It contains ingredients that the appearance of healthy-looking skin.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
The world’s first 100% invisible, weightless, scentless sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 40 + Blue Light Protection. Sunscreen that doesn’t look, feel or smell like sunscreen, made for all skin tones & types. Skin perfecting and makeup-gripping, Unseen’s smooth and lightweight texture works both as a primer under foundation, or on its own for a natural look (it works great with beard stubble too!). This feel-good, antioxidant-rich facial sunscreen helps protect against blue light (skin damaging light emitted from your phone, computer, & tablet), UVA, UVB & IRA rays. The unique oil-free formula glides onto skin, providing shine control & leaving a velvety, makeup-gripping finish. Apply generously and evenly as the last step in your skincare routine and before makeup. Great for guys too!