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No matter what your complexion is, it's important to wear sunscreen every day to protect yourself from damaging UV rays. However, it's not always easy for people with darker skin to choose sunscreen, as many can leave a white cast.
Many cream-based sunscreens have a heavy consistency that can leave a white, chalky finish on the skin. So pick a product with a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture that will look transparent on your skin. If you don't know which product is the most suitable, take a look at our buying guide and list of the best sunscreens for dark skin tones!
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
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Choosing a suitable sunscreen for dark skin tones is not easy, since there are various products with somewhat similar ingredients. So consider factors such as the type of sunscreen and the SPF ratings to ensure that the product actually works for you.
Sunscreens can be divided into two types: chemical and mineral-based. Each type has its own pros and cons, so take these into consideration before you make your choice.
Chemical sunscreens, also known as organic sunscreens, are made with active chemicals such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, or octocrylene. They trap and absorb the sun's UV rays, giving you optimal sun protection.
Chemical sunscreens are easy to apply and don't leave behind a white cast on dark skin tones. Nonetheless, they might cause some allergic reactions such as skin rashes, redness, or swelling. Many people with melasma or rosacea also don't react well to chemical sunscreens.
Active chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate are not the most environmentally-friendly ingredients for the beach either. So if you are concerned about that, sunscreens made from reef-safe chemical blockers such as avobenzone and octocrylene might be a better option.
One of the best daily chemical sunscreens for those with darker skin tones is EltaMD UV Clear. This particular sunscreen has both chemical and mineral blockers and uses niacinamide to help with inflammation. It's also an effective sunscreen for those with acne-prone skin.
Mineral, or physical, sunscreens contain reef-safe physical blockers such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that form a protective barrier on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. This type of sunscreen can protect your skin right after application, so no wait is needed.
Mineral sunscreens are also gentle on sensitive skin, so even pregnant women and babies can use them. And since mineral sunscreens divert the sun rays away from the skin, they're a great option for people with heat-activated skin conditions like rosacea and redness.
Still, mineral sunscreens can come off with sweat and water, so make sure to re-apply more often. They may also leave behind a white sheen on the skin, which is a common concern for people with darker skin tones. Fortunately, there are many mineral sunscreens created with a sheer consistency that won't turn your skin white at all (like our recommendations!).
Mineral sunscreens are great because they can be tolerated by most skin types. As mentioned above, they're also safe for babies and pregnant people. As they're gentle on sensitive skin types, I recommend mineral sunscreens if you have photosensitive conditions like melasma or lupus.
Mineral sunscreens can, however, be quite cumbersome to rub in. Look for a gel formulation or Nano mineral sunscreens, as these tend to rub in a little easier.
If you have a dark skin tone, it may be a challenge to find a sunscreen that won't give you a ghostly look. Cream-based sunscreens usually have a thick and heavy consistency that can't be absorbed quickly by the skin and might leave it with a chalky finish.
Meanwhile, sunscreens with a lightweight, fast-absorbing, and water-based consistency like gels, sheer lotions, or sprays are more transparent and less likely to leave a whitish sheen or any tint on the skin.
The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) number decides how much protection against UVB rays you get. The higher the SPF number, the better the protection. For instance, SPF 30 will block about 95 percent of UVB rays, while SPF 100 can stop about 99 percent.
Keep in mind that no sunscreens can provide you with 100 percent protection against UVB rays, no matter how high the SPF number is. But generally, you should choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for better protection.
Sunscreens can wash off in water or when you're sweating, so you might want to choose a sunscreen that's water-resistant, especially if you intend to exercise outdoors or go swimming. Also, one application won't last you the whole day, so remember to re-apply the sunscreen every two hours or more often if you're wet.
Apply sunscreen about 30 minutes prior to your sun exposure. Reapplication is important throughout the day even if you don't sweat or swim.
I recommend brush-on sunscreen applicators as an easy and effective way to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. These come available in many shades and tones and make reapplication a breeze.
Many people assume that the SPF number is the only thing that matters, but that's not true. The SPF number only measures the protection against UVB rays, which can cause sunburns and skin cancer.
However, SPF only does not protect againts UVA rays, the main cause behind premature aging. They're also responsible for your tan skin as well as skin cancer. To get optimal protection against UVB and UVA rays, you should pick a sunscreen labeled as 'broad spectrum'.
UV rays, specifically UVA, can penetrate through glass windows. Opting for a broad-spectrum sunscreen is very helpful for preventing sun damage, especially if you sit by a window at work or spend a lot of time on the road.
Some anti-aging medications like retinols, retinoids, and AHAs, will make you sun sensitive and more prone to sunburn. Definitely choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen if you are on one of these.
UV rays produce free radicals that can speed up your skin's aging. Unfortunately, no sunscreen can fight them off completely. Therefore, many sunscreens are infused with antioxidants such as vitamin C, fruit, and flower extracts to help slow down the aging process and provide your skin with extra nourishment.
Some sunscreens are also enriched with ceramides to keep the skin moisturized and shield it from environmental aggressors such as pollution. If you're looking for a sunscreen that can nourish your skin as well as protect it, choose one that is infused with antioxidants or moisturizing ingredients.
I personally love adding a vitamin concentrate to my daily facial sunscreen in the morning. This can help boost protection from the sun and shield you from any free radical damage.
Vitamin C in particular can also help with hyperpigmentation from melasma or post inflammatory from acne. It should be used in the morning on clean skin.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Price | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Elta MD Skincare UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 | $37.05 Mid | The Ultimate Sunscreen That Protects from UVA and UVB Rays | ||
2 | Neutrogena Age Shield Face | $74.99 High | Protect Skin Six Layers Deep | ||
3 | Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++ | $25.95 Low Mid | A Nourishing, Vegan, and Reef-Safe Gel Sunscreen | ||
4 | Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Natural Skin Perfector | $49.01 High Mid | Tinted Sunscreen With Lots of Hydration | ||
5 | COOLA Full Spectrum 360 Sun Silk Drops | $46.00 High Mid | Protect Your Skin From More Than Just UV Rays | ||
6 | Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer All Day Moisture Defense Lotion | $42.00 Mid | Ceramides and Aloe for Lasting Hydration | ||
7 | Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Spray | $15.99 Low | Hypoallergenic and Cruelty-Free Sunscreen for Adults and Children | ||
8 | Black Girl Sunscreen Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 | $31.98 Mid | Filled with Natural Ingredients and Made by a POC-Owned Company | ||
9 | Thrive Natural Care Daily Defense Sunscreen Balm | $24.95 Low Mid | Plant-Derived Mineral Sunscreen That Moisturizes | ||
10 | Algenist Sublime Defense Ultra Lightweight UV Defense Fluid | $28.00 Low Mid | Ultra-Sheer Sunscreen That Helps Prevent Wrinkles |
This dermatologist-recommended sunscreen lotion contains nine percent zinc oxide to help protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Furthermore, it's non-comedogenic and oil-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin, including difficult skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and discoloration.
The product is also enriched with niacinamide, a powerful antioxidant that can fight off free radicals and slow down the aging process of your skin.
Some reviewers on Amazon felt they may have received a fake product so we've included an alternative link to a trustworthy site. However, many reviewers said that the lotion did not leave behind a white cast and is suitable for darker skin tones. What's more, they loved how gentle this was on sensitive skin as well as its moisturizing abilities.
Crafted with Helioplex, a broad spectrum technology that helps fight off both UVA and UVB rays, this sunscreen provides you with superior anti-aging protection from the sun's damaging rays. This sunscreen is also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and contains no comedogenic ingredients that might clog your pores.
A few reviewers commented that the sunscreen was a bit greasy and some said that the product burned their eyes. You should be careful and try not to apply the product near the eye area.
Meanwhile, many reviewers commented that this lightweight lotion did not leave their skin with a ghostly white finish if they didn't apply it too thick. Reviewers further added that the sunscreen did not trigger acne or irritate their skin, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin, too.
This invisible, weightless, and scentless sunscreen contains only reef-safe, vegan ingredients and won't turn your skin into a ghostly shade at all! Furthermore, it's formulated with meadowfoam seed, red algae, and frankincense to rejuvenate your skin and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. The product is also oil-free and won't clog your pores.
Some reviewers mentioned that they had allergic reactions after using the product, so you might want to check if there's any ingredient you might be allergic to or do a patch test before use.
Many reviewers commented that the product softened their skin while protecting it from the UV sun rays. Reviewers also loved how the sunscreen soaked right into their skin without leaving any residue. Some added that it had a matte finish.
This tinted, fast-absorbing liquid is packed with macadamia, tamarind seed extract, and kukui seed oils to provide your skin with up to 24 hours of hydration. The addition of silica-treated pigment also gives your skin a natural and dewy look!
Another plus point of this product is that it has various dark-colored shades, like nutmeg, cacao, and mocha. You'll definitely be able to find a suitable shade for yourself!
Some reviewers said the product didn't hold up very well for oily or combination skin. On the other hand, many said the product didn't look cakey at all, and actually blended well with their skin and gave it a natural finish. Also, many reviewers mentioned that the product had a sheer, lightweight texture that went on their skin smoothly without leaving behind any greasy residue.
This weightless sunscreen is enriched with hyaluronic acid and neroli flower extract to soften and hydrate your skin while at the same time making your skin feel much more supple. The product is also formulated with a full spectrum 360 complex that helps defend your skin from pollution, blue light from digital devices, and UV rays.
Some reviewers were disappointed that the product left their faces feeling sticky, so it might not be suitable for those with oily skin.
Nonetheless, many reviewers commented that the product had a silky texture and left zero white cast. They added that the sunscreen helped moisturize their skin effectively and did not trigger any allergic reactions.
This ultra-light sunscreen is formulated with ceramides and soothing aloe to provide your skin with lasting hydration and defend it from free radical damage.
However, some reviewers mentioned that the sunscreen felt heavy and left their skin a bit greasy afterward. Others noted that it might take up to 15 minutes for your skin to fully absorb it.
On the other hand, many reviewers complimented that the sunscreen did not leave a white cast on their skin. Reviewers further said that the sunscreen was hydrating and ideal to use in the winter.
This hypoallergenic sunscreen is non-comedogenic and contains only gentle and reef-friendly ingredients. It's infused with vitamin E, a crucial antioxidant that helps slow down the premature aging process. The product also provides you with broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
Some reviewers complained that they received defective bottles. Others further added that the sprayer did not work well.
Meanwhile, many commented that the product did not trigger any allergic reactions and was suitable for those with delicate skin, including babies. Many reviewers also noted that the product had a coconut smell and really prevented their skin from getting sunburns!
This sunscreen contains plenty of natural ingredients that will nourish your skin as well as protect it from both UVA and UVB rays. Avocado and jojoba moisture and soothe, while cacao provides antioxidants. Vitamin C heals and boosts the level of melanin in your skin. Lastly, sunflower oil reduces irritation.
The sunscreen is cruelty-free, vegan, and reef-safe, and made by a POC-owned company. It doubles as a moisturizer and will look completely clear when it dries. You can easily layer it under your makeup, too.
A few reviewers noted that this sunscreen is not suitable for oily skin, as it's quite thick and somewhat greasy. On the other hand, many said it worked wonders on dry skin! They highlighted that it left a glowy look on their skin.
This non-tinted mineral sunscreen is lightweight and fast to absorb, giving your skin a matte finish. Furthermore, it's enriched with antioxidant-rich plants such as Juanilama and Fierrillo to help rejuvenate your skin and protect it from environmental stressors.
Some reviewers complained that the sunscreen broke their skin out, so you might want to look at the ingredient list to see if there's anything you're allergic to or do a patch test.
Meanwhile, many reviewers said that the sunscreen was moisturizing and felt good on the skin for quite a while. Furthermore, they mentioned that the sunscreen left a shine-free, non-greasy, and non-whitening finish even though it uses zinc for sun protection.
This ultra-sheer, oil-free sunscreen feels light on your skin and is great for everyday protection against damaging UVA and UVB rays.
It contains patented alguronic acid that helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and it's also enriched with echinacea, Japanese green tea extract, and vitamin E to help you nurture your skin while neutralizing the effects of free radical damage.
Some reviewers complained that the sunscreen did not work well under makeup. However, others loved the lightweight consistency of the sunscreen and added that it was quickly absorbed by the skin while leaving no white cast. Some also said it was thin and easy to spread. Those with aging skin were impressed with their results.
Looking to update your self-care routine? Pamper yourself with these recommended products.
No. 1: Elta MD Skincare|UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
No. 2: Neutrogena|Age Shield Face
No. 3: Supergoop!|Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++
No. 4: Laura Mercier|Tinted Moisturizer Natural Skin Perfector
No. 5: COOLA|Full Spectrum 360 Sun Silk Drops
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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