My Ultimate Favorite Brown Girl Sunscreens
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For the last 4 years, I’ve spent a lot of time at the beach here in Laguna year-round.
A dermatologist asked me what sunscreen I used around 2022. I didn’t have an answer.
I thought sunscreen was for people of a lighter tone. She explained to me that my hyperpigmentation tussle was being directly impacted by my lack of sunscreen. I was shook.
That started my journey of trying every sunscreen I could find. Some made me look casket-ready, others made me break out with acne!
I was frustrated, but I kept trying them until I found the ones that worked perfectly for me.
Now when I try to persuade my friends and family to use sunscreen, I usually can tell them (based on skin type and lifestyle) which one I would recommend. I am not a professional, but I have a load of experience from trial and error!
I am a brown girl. Do I really need sunscreen daily?
This is a question I get a lot and the definitive answer is: YES.
Sunscreen is beneficial for dark skin for several important reasons:
Protection from UV Rays:
Dark skin has more melanin, which offers some natural protection against the harmful effects of UV radiation, but it is not enough to prevent damage completely. Sunscreen provides additional protection against both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of skin damage.
Prevention of Skin Cancer:
While the risk of skin cancer is lower in individuals with dark skin compared to those with lighter skin, it is still a significant risk. Skin cancers in people with dark skin are often diagnosed at a later stage when they are more difficult to treat. Regular use of sunscreen can help lower this risk.
Avoidance of Hyperpigmentation:
Dark skin is more prone to hyperpigmentation, where certain areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to increased melanin production. UV exposure can exacerbate this condition. Sunscreen helps prevent the development and worsening of hyperpigmentation.
Anti-Aging Benefits:
UV exposure accelerates the aging process of the skin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity. Sunscreen helps protect the skin from premature aging caused by UV rays.
Maintaining Even Skin Tone:
Regular use of sunscreen helps maintain an even skin tone by preventing sun-induced discoloration and uneven pigmentation.
Nowadays, I wear sunscreen every day (even on cloudy days or days when I’ll be indoors but close to a window). I’ve seen my post acne scars fade as a result.
I’m listing my favorites below. All of these have no white cast. Keep in mind I have dry skin.
Feel free to comment below on the ones I should try!
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
This is my top sunscreen for wearing when I have on makeup. It’s super matte but goes on as a gel. I love how it looks like my skin has nothing on it. It’s pricey so I don’t use it daily (I don’t wear makeup daily) but when I need real protection for maybe a daytime outdoor event, I reach for this each time.
$40
La Roche Posay Anthelios UV Hydra Sunscreen SPF 50
This is my my daily sunscreen when I’m not going out. It’s super hydrating and makes my skin feel super soft. It gives my skin a healthy glow and It also doesn’t burn my eyes if I sweat during a workout. I love that it has Hyaluronic Acid for extra moisture.
$39
Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50
This is another one of my go tos. love this sunscreen because it gives a subtle glow and can be worn under makeup well without pilling. It’s also super sheer and affordable.
$13
Neutrogena Beach Defense Water-Resistant SPF 50+ Sunscreen Stick
I carry this one in my purse. It’s completely clear and feels good on the skin. It has a little glowy sheen that I also like. I love the stick form because I can just swipe it on and rub it in.
$10
Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Face Sunscreen + Hydrating Serum with Broad Spectrum SPF 60
I used this in a spray form for a while then I started using this. If I have to be at the beach, I usually grab this one. It’s sheer and doesn’t clog pores.
$15
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
This product is a fan favorite, and it’s the reason more Black women have started using sunscreen. It’s a little oily for me, which is great when I want a dewy look and no makeup. It also contains jojoba and avocado.
$10
Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 36
This is one of the first sunscreens I got hooked on, and I still use it when I plan to be mostly indoors or only out for a moment. It does give a nice glow, and it’s super moisturizing and affordable.
$18
Make It Pop Sungloss – Revolutionary Sun Protection and Gloss in One – SPF 50
Forgetting to provide protection on the lips can cause hyperpigmentation to worsen (if you suffer from that) and cause the lips to age and get wrinkled. This gloss is clear and non sticky. Perfect for beach days.
$11