Image by @adutakech
You are probably tired of hearing it at this point, but I am going to tell you again. Wear. Your. Sunscreen. Using sunscreen every day is one of the best things you can do for your skin. Forget everything you’ve heard about black not cracking and not needing SPF. I’m here to tell you that black skin will crack, and even shatter if we don’t treat it with the love and care it deserves! Daily use of sunscreen is the best defence against harmful UV rays which are responsible for signs of premature ageing, pigmentation issues like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and skin cancer. Whilst melanin does provide some sun protection, the use of retinoids and chemical exfoliants make skin more sensitive to UV rays. So, it’s really important to be using at least an SPF 30 on a daily basis. Okay, rant over.
A lot of sunscreens were not formulated with black skin in mind. There are few things worse than doing your whole skincare routine, looking in the mirror and seeing that dreaded white cast. This white cast is caused by the UV filters which are used in mineral sunscreens (or badly formulated chemical sunscreens). But, thankfully sunscreens have come a long way over the past few years, with many black skin-friendly options!
Fenty Skin
Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturiser Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Rihanna did exactly what she needed to do with this 2-in-1 moisturiser and SPF. I love this because it is extremely moisturising and includes skin-loving ingredients like aloe, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. This moisturiser will help fight dark spots whilst protecting your skin from the sun. It also leaves skin with the most beautiful healthy glow! There is also a new fragrance-free version, so if you are sensitive to fragrance, or just don’t like it, you don’t have to miss out.
Paula’s Choice
Youth Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50
This is sunscreen for people that do not like sunscreen. It is the opposite of everything you would traditionally expect from an SPF product. It is a lightweight and watery fluid which is invisible on the skin. It almost feels like you’re not wearing anything, making it easy to layer with your other products. This sunscreen is a complete game-changer, especially for my babes with oily skin.
Glossier
Invisible Shield SPF 30
A great option for those who prefer an SPF with more of a gel texture. This sunscreen is rich in antioxidants and goes onto the skin completely clear. It works amazingly under makeup as it is weightless, leaves skin feeling hydrated but not oily, and dewy but not shiny. It could be a lot bigger for the price but the gorgeous formula makes up for the size.
La Roche-Posay
Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid Sun Cream SPF50+, La Roche-Posay
This sunscreen is a great all-rounder that will suit almost every skin type. I like that it has been formulated with sensitive skin in mind – so if your skin sometimes gets irritated by sunscreens, this might be the answer you’ve been looking for. It is lightweight, dries down semi-matte, and of course, leaves no white cast behind. There is also a spray version to make reapplication during the day much more convenient!
Murad
City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50
This is the ONLY mineral sunscreen I have found that truly does not leave a ghastly cast on the skin. Mineral sunscreens are the main culprits for making you look 50 shades of grey. This is due to Zinc Oxide and Titanium Oxide, which act as UV filters. It is so hard to formulate a mineral sunscreen that works on darker skin, but Murad has done just that (other brands please take note!). This is weightless, easily absorbed and leaves skin with a radiant glow. It is on the more expensive side, but if you prefer mineral sunscreens, this is one of the best you will find.
Kate Somerville
UncompliKated SPF 50 Soft Focus Makeup Setting Spray
If you struggle with reapplying your SPF during the day or whilst you are on the go, spray sunscreen is a great solution. I love this one from Kate Somerville, especially when I am wearing makeup! Not only does it protect the skin, but it also diffuses silicone powder which lightly mattifies and blurs imperfections whilst hyaluronic acid keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day.
