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11 Sunscreens That Work On Dark Skin Without Leaving A White Cast
If there's one totally false myth going around, it's that sunscreen isn't necessary to protect deeper skin tones. Don't get me wrong; Melanin is magical, but that doesn't stop the sun from wreaking havoc on dark skin. As challenging as it can be to find sunscreen for people of color, formulas that blend seamlessly into pigmented skin do exist.
I'll be the first to admit that I thought of using sunscreen as a foreign concept when it came to melanin-rich skin. My parents may have slathered it on my body for the occasional childhood beach trip or Disney World visit, but consistently working sunscreen into my skincare regimen simply didn't happen. I know we weren't the only ones to wrongfully reject sunscreen, however. That, my friends, is the one sunscreen mistake everyone makes: Thinking you don't need it. If you plan to venture outdoors, even if only for a few minutes, sunscreen is a must, because as long as the sun is shining, no one is exempt from damage caused by potent UV rays.
All formulas aren't created equal, though, so choosing the best sunscreen for dark skin requires careful consideration. A cut above the rest, these 11 UV protectors won't ash out dark skin.
1Cover FX Clear Cover Invisible Sunscreen
Clear Cover Invisible Sunscreen With Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $45, Sephora
Lightweight sun care with a transparent formula, this SPF 30 sunscreen moisturizes, brightens, and protects for healthier-looking skin. Infused with antioxidants from tomato extract to boost the skin's ability to defend itself, sun damage, pollution, and other environmental stressors are no match for it.
2Palmer's Eventone Suncare Moisturizing Sunscreen Cocoa Butter
Eventone Suncare Moisturizing Sunscreen Cocoa Butter, $9, Jet
Formulated with cocoa butter, shea butter, and coconut oil, Palmer's Eventone Suncare gives skin a hydrating boost as it blocks UV rays. It's added CocoaPlex technology also helps prevent dark spots and an uneven tone, super common skincare woes plaguing people of color.
3Bolden SPF 30 Brightening Moisturizer
Brightening Moisturizer With SPF 30, $28, Bolden
Skincare created for POC by POC, Bolden knows a thing or two about treating darker complexions. Coming soon to the brand's lineup of melanin-friendly products, the Brightening Moisturizer offers lightweight protection, Vitamin C to combat discoloration, and safflower oil to ease dryness, amongst other powerful ingredients.
4Per-fékt 10 Skin Perfection Plus
Skin Perfection Plus With Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $48, Sephora
Available in "Cashmere", "Rich", and "Decadent" shades for medium to deep mahogany skin tones, the Skin Perfection Plus is a multitasking gem that hydrates, covers, and protects. It's your foundation, but better, boosted with omega 6, vitamins C and E, and coconut oil to treat skin while color correcting.
5Unsun Mineral Tinted Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen
Mineral Tinted Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen, $29, DermStore
The brainchild of Frank Ocean's mom, this mineral tinted sunscreen was created specifically with olive to deep skin tones in mind. Shea butter, vitamin E, coconut oil, and five different fruit extracts comprise its moisture-rich formula while offering SPF 30 sun protection.
6Moroccanoil Sun Lotion SPF 50
Sun Lotion With SPF 50, $32, Sephora
Water-resistant and packed with argan oil, Moroccanoil's SPF 50 sun lotion features a decadent monoi scent. As it melts into your skin with a smooth texture, don't be surprised if it becomes your new go-to.
7Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen
Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen With Broad Spectrum SPF 70, $10, Amazon
Providing some major UV protection with SPF 70, this moisturizing lotion will leave your skin looking incredibly youthful and healthy. Active natural oats help lock in hydration and restore pH levels, ensuring your skin has the moisture barrier it needs to thrive.
8Extrashade Daily Defense Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion
Daily Defense Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion With SPF 30, $40, Extrashade
Formulated for rich complexions, the Daily Defense Hydrating Sunscreen won't leave a chalky film behind on dark skin. Hyaluronic acid revitalizes your tone for a smoother feel, kiwi extract improves dullness while reducing the appearance of fine lines, and soap bark extract acts as a natural moisturizer.
9La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid
Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid, $26, Amazon
Fast-absorbing with a weightless texture, this broad spectrum sunscreen boasts a matte finish. It's suitable for sensitive skin, water-resistant, and features powerful antioxidant complexes to shield from the sun.
10Loreal Age Perfect Hydra-Nutrition Facial Oil
Age Perfect Hydra-Nutrition Facial Oil With SPF 30, $13, Amazon
Get an instant glow from L'Oreal's Hydra-Nutrition Facial Oil. Made to nourish and strengthen mature skin, it uses eight essential oils and SPF 30 to penetrate the surface layer for long-lasting hydration.
11Clinique Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Fluid
Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Fluid, $26, Sephora
A 100 percent mineral sunscreen with invisible shield technology, this protectant can be worn alone or underneath makeup. Ultra-lightweight and fast-absorbing, you'll hardly notice its there.
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No matter your complexion, the sun doesn't discriminate, so it's high time that you work a sunscreen into your morning routine. Whether you sweat or plan to get wet will determine how often you should reapply sunscreen throughout the day. But one thing's for sure: all skin tones need this often overlooked daily dose of protection.
