Sunscreen Tips for Dark Skin Tones

Understanding Melanin’s Role in Sun Protection

 

Everyone’s skin contains melanin—this natural pigment is what makes your skin, hair, and eye color unique from anyone else. If you have skin of color, your skin produces more melanin than other skin tones. According to the Cleveland Clinic, having more melanin in your skin may provide a small amount of protection from the sun’s harmful rays but not enough to fully protect against sun damage.¹ “Even if you have increased pigment in your skin, it only gives [you] about SPF 4 inherently,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Daniel Sugai. “So, you need to have additional sunscreen on top of that to [help] protect your skin.”

 

Do Dark Skin Tones Need Sunscreen?

“As a dermatologist, I recommend that everyone—regardless of skin type, tone, or texture—wear sunscreen every day, year-round,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nkem Ugonabo. “All skin tones can experience sun damage, which can lead to skin cancer and visible signs of aging,” she explains. This is especially important when you consider recent research, which shows an increase in skin cancer cases among people of all races and ethnicities.²

 

“Many of my melanin-rich patients are concerned by premature aging as well as the worsening of dark spots,” says Dr. Ugonabo. In fact, dark spots or patches are one of the top reasons that people with skin of color visit a dermatologist, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).³ If dark spots are among your skin concerns, you may want to pay extra attention to daily sun protection, since studies have found that the sun’s UV rays may worsen these spots by potentially triggering more melanin production.^3,4

 

Dr. Ugonabo’s key takeaway is that, although some people may not experience sunburn as quickly, it doesn’t mean that their skin isn’t affected by sun exposure. Dr. Daniel Sugai agrees, adding that, “This is a really important topic because, if you have skin of color, you [still] face DNA disruption from UV radiation.” For his skin of color patients, Dr. Sugai recommends using facial sunscreens (or facial moisturizers with sunscreen) every day.

 

CeraVe’s 6 Sunscreen Tips for Dark Skin Tones

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore some sun protection tips you can start practicing today. Keep reading to discover CeraVe’s sunscreen tips for people with dark skin tones.

 

Tip #1: Make sunscreen part of your daily routine

Studies have found that people with skin of color are less likely to use sunscreen regularly.⁵ If you need help getting into the habit, try setting a reminder on your phone or placing your sunscreen in an obvious place (like next to your toothbrush or face wash). After applying sunscreen on dark skin tones, we recommend waiting approximately 5-10 minutes to allow the formula to fully absorb and blend in. For effective protection, remember to reapply sunscreen products at least every two hours.

 

Tip #2: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher

Check the label of your sunscreen product to ensure that it has an SPF value of 30 or higher. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen formulas with an SPF value of at least 30 can help block up to 97% of the sun’s UVB rays.⁶ People with darker skin tones should also look for sunscreen formulas that offer broad-spectrum protection. This means that the product is formulated to help protect your skin from both types of harmful UV rays—UVA and UVB rays. If you’ll be swimming or sweating, it’s also essential to choose sunscreen products that are water-resistant.

 

Tip #3: Learn more about chemical vs. mineral sunscreens

There are two main types of sun filters used in sun care products: mineral (physical) and chemical. Zinc-based mineral sunscreens are generally recommended for sensitive skin, but they may be more likely to leave a white cast, which can be particularly noticeable on darker skin. However, Dr. Ugonabo encourages people with skin of color not to give up on mineral sunscreens altogether. “The newer formulations are more elegant and able to be used even on darker skin types without leaving a white cast,” she adds.

 

Tip #4: Try a hybrid sunscreen formula

When looking for a sunscreen without white cast, consider trying hybrid sunscreen formulas, like CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen. This face and body sunscreen uses both mineral and chemical ingredients to offer the best of both worlds: the benefits of a mineral sunscreen with the cosmetic elegance and blendability often found in chemical sunscreens.

 

Tip #5: Don’t forget about other protective measures

Sunscreen alone can’t fully protect skin of color from sun damage. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that all skin tones practice additional sun protection measures such as seeking shade and avoiding direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.⁶ It’s also important to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours during the day and wear hats, sunglasses, and other protective clothing when possible.

 

Tip #6: Visit your dermatologist for regular skin checks

Research suggests that people with skin of color may be less likely to receive a skin cancer diagnosis early on, when it’s most essential.⁷ For this reason, it’s important to stay on top of yearly dermatologist visits and to regularly check your skin at home. Consult your doctor or a dermatologist if you have any concerns about your skin. Many board-certified dermatologists specialize in caring for skin of color and can help offer useful tips and guidance.

 

Which Sunscreen Is Best for Skin of Color?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the “best” sunscreen is the one that you’ll apply every day.¹ That’s why it’s important to find a sun care product that fits your personal preferences, lifestyle, and skin type (whether that’s oily, dry, combination, normal, or sensitive).  Although different formulas might work better for various individuals of color, there are a few options that tend to be favorites among people with darker skin tones.

 

“My melanin-rich patients like tinted sunscreens,” says Dr. Ugonabo. “Particularly ones with either a range of shades or a universal tint that blends in well.” Tinted sunscreens can sometimes be easier to blend into dark skin tones, according to Dr. Ugonabo. Plus, these tinted formulas can also help give the skin a healthy glow and a more even-toned appearance. We recommend experimenting with different formulas to see what works well for you and consulting a board-certified dermatologist if you need help finding the best sunscreen for skin of color.

 

Here are a few CeraVe sunscreens that offer all of these benefits for dark skin tones, plus beneficial ingredients to help maintain your skin’s protective barrier.

 

CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion With Sunscreen

If you prefer to keep your routine simple, you may enjoy a moisturizer formulated with broad-spectrum sunscreen, like CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion. This daytime face moisturizer offers several benefits in a single step.* It moisturizes and nourishes your skin, hydrates skin up to 10 layers deep, provides 24-hour hydration, helps absorb and reflect the sun’s rays, and helps maintain your skin’s protective barrier. The lightweight formula is suitable for all skin types and blends in easily on darker skin tones.

 

*For sunscreen protection, reapply at least every two hours.

CeraVe Tip: In the evening, you won’t need sunscreen. Instead, reach for our PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with niacinamide.

 

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

Our Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion is ideal for people with darker skin tones who have normal to oily skin. Formulated with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen, this oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth while also protecting it from the sun’s harmful rays. It makes an excellent option if you prefer a multitasking daytime moisturizer that delivers an ultra-lightweight, matte finish.

 

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint

This hydrating tinted mineral sunscreen is great for anyone with a dark skin tone who wants a healthy glow and a sheer, natural finish. It’s also an ideal pick if you prefer mineral sunscreens or if you want to simplify your routine with a product that offers both sun protection and complexion-boosting benefits in a single step. Our tinted sunscreen features 100% broad-spectrum SPF 30 mineral sun filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) and a subtle tint that blends seamlessly into all skin tones. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula is non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin and acne-prone skin.

For help choosing the right products for your specific skin type and skin concerns, use our Find My Skincare Solution tool.