Despite what the myths may have told you, sunscreen is essential to the wellbeing of your skin. This applies to my darker-skinned people as well! Black people are just as susceptible to sunburn, hyperpigmentation, premature aging, and skin cancer as those with lighter skin tones. To be completely covered, you need to apply a good amount of sunscreen every several hours; usually two fingers-worth. However, most times sunscreen is not tested on black skin. So, when applied, it leaves an unsightly white or purple cast. Yikes, Casper! These are some of the best sunscreen brands for black skin. These products moisturize and protect without the unattractive cast!
A personal favorite, Black Girl Sunscreen is a black-owned product created specifically for dark skin. This sunscreen is filled with natural ingredients such as jojoba and avocado. It is also water-resistant, so it can be worn while swimming or sweating. This product is perfect for that day on the beach or that mid-day workout! Black Girl Sunscreen is a chemical sunscreen, and it is free of fragrances and essential oils. It is especially useful for moisturizing dry skin and can even be used as a moisturizing lotion for the face and body!
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Cerave skincare, a personal favorite, has an impressive inventory of effective and affordable skincare products. Along with its many cleansers, lotions, and skin protectants, Cerave also has an impressive sunscreen formula. The Cerave Hydrating Sunscreen in SPF 50 is a broad-spectrum, lightweight formula for long-lasting sun protection. It is a mineral sunscreen free of oils for a non-greasy feel. Like other Cerave products, this sunscreen contains essential ceramides and niacinamide to both hydrate and calm the skin. This sunscreen is also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Granted a seal of approval from the National Eczema Association, it is safe for those with eczema and other sensitive skin conditions. Apply liberally to the face after moisturizer for total sun protection.
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The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel is perfect for that hardworking athlete. This lightweight chemical sunscreen is water-resistant and hydrates skin for 8 hours after application. It can also be layered underneath makeup for extra protection with your glamourous makeup looks. Its non-greasy formula moisturizes and refreshes skin without clogging pores.
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Lightweight and oil-free, the Aveeno Protect & Hydrate Sunscreen will leave your skin feeling soft and nourished for up to 24 hours. With SPF 30 sun protection, this formula provides broad-spectrum protection from sun exposure. It glides onto the skin and melts into it without clogging pores. It is also a very affordable product when compared to some of its competition; usually costing less than $10 at any major retailer.
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As its name suggests, the Suntique I’m Safe For Sensitive Skin sunscreen works well for those with sensitive skin. This lightweight physical sunscreen can be applied liberally to the skin without fear of that ghostly cast. Its gentle formula is perfect for any skin type, and special calming ingredients like aloe leaf extracts give the skin a cool, calming sensation.
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The Paula’s Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid is a lightweight, broad-spectrum sun protectant that also works to prevent premature aging. Its key antioxidants protect and nourish your skin for a healthier complexion. It is a chemical sunscreen that is also free of fragrance and essential oils. The matte finish leaves skin feeling hydrated and smooth, never greasy or oily.
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Like its name suggests, the Supergoop Unseen SPF 40 Sunscreen is invisible when applied to the skin! This chemical sunscreen provides broad-spectrum sun protection with water and sweat resistance. It can also be used as a makeup primer underneath foundation for extra SPF protection. It works well on all skin types, including dry, combination, and oily skin. For those seeking to treat skin conditions like uneven texture, dullness, and hyperpigmentation, this product is an essential purchase. Apply liberally to the face at the end of your skincare routine but before your makeup routine for glowing and protected skin.
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Created by legendary tennis star Venus Williams, EleVen On-Th-Defense sunscreen is a tinted mineral sunscreen for dark skin. Its formula is effective for all skin types but works notably well for sensitive skin. This sunscreen comes in either serum or stick form and melts into the skin for a smooth-semi-matte finish. Free of fragrance and essential oils, it makes the perfect daily sunscreen for those with a busy, on-the-go lifestyle. For those seeking a product to help treat heavy hyperpigmentation, this sunscreen may be a great choice!
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Unlike others on this list, the Vera Bella Cucumber Aloe Daily Moisturizer with SPF 45 is a mixed sunscreen, containing properties of both chemical and physical sunscreens. This lightweight moisturizer contains several beneficial antioxidants, including Borage oil. It is broad-spectrum and water-resistant and absorbs quickly into the skin. This sunscreen does leave a pleasant, lingering scent of cucumber on the skin. However, if your skin is sensitive to fragrance, this may not be the sunscreen for you.
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The Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense sunscreen in SPF 30 is a weightless, moisturizing formula that is suitable for all skin types. Apply liberally to the face at the end of your morning skincare routine for broad-spectrum protection from harmful UV rays. This sunscreen also contains Green Tea Antioxidant and Bio-active Mushroom that helps protect the skin from other environmental factors that cause redness, dryness, or acne.
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