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15 BEST SUNSCREENS FOR BLACK SKIN YOU WILL LOVE

Sunscreen is essential for everyone, regardless of skin tone. But for those with darker complexions, finding a sunscreen that offers broad spectrum protection without leaving an unwanted white cast can be a challenge. This guide dives into 15 of the best sunscreens formulated specifically for Black skin. We’ll explore options that are lightweight, blend seamlessly, and provide the vital defense you need to keep your skin healthy and glowing, all summer long.

SHOULD YOU USE MINERAL OR CHEMICAL SUNSCREEN ON DARK SKIN?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for mineral vs. chemical sunscreen on darker skin tones. Both offer UV protection, but with some pros and cons to consider:

Chemical Sunscreens: These tend to blend in more easily, making them a popular choice for darker skin tones that might show a white cast from mineral formulas. However, some people with sensitive skin experience irritation from chemical sunscreen ingredients. Additionally, there’s a misconception that chemical sunscreens get absorbed into the bloodstream – while some absorption can occur, it’s minimal and hasn’t been linked to any health risks.

Mineral Sunscreens: These can be less irritating and offer broad-spectrum protection. However, the minerals can leave a visible white cast on the skin, which can be more noticeable on darker complexions. The good news is that newer mineral sunscreen formulas are much better at blending in than older versions.

Ultimately, the best sunscreen for dark skin is the one you’ll wear consistently. If you find chemical sunscreens irritate your skin, or if you’re concerned about ingredient absorption, then a mineral formula might be a better choice. Look for newer, tinted mineral sunscreens that offer better blending and address the white cast issue. Regardless of the type you choose, make sure it has an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every 2-3 hours for optimal protection.

IS TINTED SUNSCREEN BETTER FOR DARK SKIN?

Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a dermatologist certified in Alabama, recommends tinted sunscreens for people with darker skin tones. Tinted sunscreens offer multiple benefits: they reduce the visibility of a white cast, provide broad-spectrum sun protection, and even out skin tone, potentially eliminating the need for foundation for those who want a simpler routine.

Eyikogbe SkinSpirit’s aesthetic nurse practitioner adds that tints can be found in both mineral and chemical sunscreens. However, they are particularly useful with mineral sunscreens because the tint can help counteract the white cast caused by zinc oxide.

OUR TOP PICKS

LA ROCHE-POSAY MELA B3 UV DAILY SUNSCREEN

La Roche-Posay Mela B3 UV Daily Sunscreen tackles dark spots and uneven skin tone while safeguarding your skin. This SPF 30 moisturizer combines niacinamide, a hero ingredient for diminishing hyperpigmentation, with a unique complex called MelaSyl to further brighten your complexion. The lightweight, oil-free formula aims to blend seamlessly into darker skin tones, but it’s always wise to test beforehand to ensure no white cast remains. Ultimately, La Roche-Posay’s offering caters specifically to those with darker complexions seeking sun protection and a more even skin tone.

LA ROCHE-POSAY ANTHELIOS UVMUNE 400 OIL CONTROL SPF50+

While La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Oil Control SPF50+ boasts high sun protection and oil control, it might not be the most suitable choice for darker skin tones. This formula prioritizes oil absorption and broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection, which is great for oily or acne-prone skin. However, some mineral sunscreens in this category can leave a white cast, which can be more noticeable on darker complexions. While La Roche-Posay strives for innovations, it’s important to consider individual experiences and potential white cast. If you have darker skin and prioritize oil control, research if user reviews mention a white cast before purchasing.

MDSOLARSCIENCES MINERAL TINTED CREME SPF 30

MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted Creme SPF 30 caters to those with darker skin tones seeking sun protection with a touch of coverage. This lightweight, mineral sunscreen boasts a universally flattering tint that aims to blend seamlessly into various skin tones. The sheer, matte finish makes it a great primer or can be worn alone for a natural look. While formulated for sensitive skin, it’s always wise to do a patch test before full application. Remember, even tinted mineral sunscreens can leave a slight white cast, so reading user reviews with darker skin tones can be helpful.

SUPERGOOP! UNSEEN SUNSCREEN SPF 40

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 is a popular choice for all skin tones seeking a weightless, invisible broad-spectrum shield. This chemical sunscreen boasts an SPF 40 formula that absorbs quickly without leaving any white cast or greasy residue. While ideal for those who dislike the feel of traditional sunscreens, it’s important to note chemical sunscreens may irritate sensitive skin. If you have concerns about ingredient absorption, mineral sunscreens might be a better option. Regardless, Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is a great choice for those prioritizing a lightweight, invisible layer of sun protection.

SALTEE DAILY PROTECTION FORMULA

Saltee Daily Protection Formula offers SPF 50 protection in a lightweight, daily moisturizer. This fragrance-free formula is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. While the brand doesn’t specifically mention catering to darker skin tones, its focus on a sheer finish suggests it aims to minimize white cast. Packed with nourishing ingredients like avocado oil and neroli oil, it promises to hydrate and revitalize the skin while safeguarding it from UV rays. However, to be certain about white cast on darker skin tones, checking user reviews might be helpful.

COTZ FLAWLESS COMPLEXION SPF 50

COTZ Flawless Complexion SPF 50 is a mineral sunscreen that offers sun protection with a hint of coverage. This lightweight formula contains 20% zinc oxide, making it ideal for sensitive skin types prone to irritation or breakouts. The tint aims to blend seamlessly into most skin tones, but it’s always a good idea to test it beforehand, especially on darker complexions, to check for any white cast. While COTZ strives for a flawless finish, individual experiences may vary. If you prioritize a mineral sunscreen with light coverage, COTZ Flawless Complexion SPF 50 could be a good option, but testing beforehand is key.

COLORESCIENCE SUNFORGETTABLE TOTAL PROTECTION FACE SHIELD FLEX SPF 50

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 caters to those seeking sun protection with a touch of makeup. This mineral sunscreen boasts a lightweight, tinted formula that adapts to various skin tones for a flawless look. The color pigments aim to even out skin tone while offering broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. However, as with many mineral sunscreens, a slight white cast is possible, so testing beforehand is recommended, especially for darker complexions. If you prioritize a mineral sunscreen with built-in makeup that adapts to your skin tone, Colorescience Sunforgettable could be a good option, but a patch test is key to ensure no white cast remains.

NEOSTRATA SHEER HYDRATION SPF40

NeoStrata Sheer Hydration SPF 40 is a moisturizer with built-in sun protection, making it a convenient choice for daily use. This lightweight, oil-free formula is ideal for combination or oily skin types prone to breakouts. While NeoStrata doesn’t specify if it caters to darker skin tones, its sheer finish suggests it aims to minimize white cast. It contains NeoGlucosamine, a gentle exfoliant that helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, and botanical extracts to manage oiliness. Remember, even sheerscreen can leave a slight cast, so checking user reviews with darker skin tones might be helpful.

BABO BOTANICALS SHEER ZINC SPF 30 NATURAL CONTINUOUS SPRAY

Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc SPF 30 Natural Continuous Spray is a mineral sunscreen ideal for those who prefer a spray application. This fragrance-free formula, made with zinc oxide, offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection. The air-powered spray boasts a continuous application for easy use and is suitable for all ages, including sensitive skin. However, mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast, and while Babo Botanicals strives for a sheer finish, it’s important to consider individual experiences, especially on darker skin tones. Testing the spray on a small area beforehand is recommended.

MELE NO SHADE SUNSCREEN OIL SPF 30

Mele No Shade Sunscreen Oil SPF 30 caters to those who love a lightweight, oil-based sunscreen. This oil absorbs quickly and boasts a sheer finish, aiming to blend invisibly into all skin tones, including darker complexions. It prioritizes broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection to shield skin from harmful UV rays and environmental aggressors. While marketed to minimize white cast, some users might experience a slight residue depending on skin type. For those who prefer the feel of oil-based sunscreens and prioritize non-greasy protection, Mele No Shade could be a good option, but a patch test is recommended to assess any potential white cast.

MEDIK8 ADVANCED DAY ULTIMATE PROTECT SPF50+

Medik8 Advanced Day Ultimate Protect SPF50+ is a moisturizer and sunscreen in one, offering daily hydration and broad-spectrum sun protection. This multitasking product boasts SPF 50+ defense against UV rays and contains photolyase, an enzyme that aids in natural DNA repair after sun exposure. While Medik8 doesn’t specify if it caters to darker skin tones, some reviews suggest the formula blends well. However, as with many sunscreens, a slight white cast is a possibility. If you prioritize a daily moisturizer with built-in SPF 50+ protection, Medik8 Advanced Day could be an option, but testing beforehand is wise to check for cast.

CETAPHIL PRO OIL DERMACONTROL OIL CONTROL MOISTURIZER SPF 30

Cetaphil Pro Oil Dermacontrol Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30 is a multi-tasking product designed for oily and sensitive skin. This lightweight, oil-free lotion offers 3 key benefits: hydration, oil control, and broad-spectrum SPF 30 sun protection. The formula is infused with micropearl technology that absorbs excess oil, aiming to leave a matte finish and minimize shine. While Cetaphil doesn’t specifically mention catering to darker skin tones, its focus on a lightweight, oil-free texture suggests it should minimize white cast. Patch testing is always recommended to ensure compatibility with your skin.

DR. LORETTA UNIVERSAL GLOW DAILY DEFENSE MINERAL SUNSCREEN FLUID SPF 40

Dr. Loretta Universal Glow Daily Defense Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 40 promises a trifecta of benefits: sun protection, hydration, and a touch of glow. This mineral sunscreen boasts SPF 40 protection alongside ingredients like zinc oxide for UV defense and antioxidants to fight free radicals. It also contains botanical extracts that aim to hydrate and brighten the skin. While Dr. Loretta’s formula strives for a universally flattering tint, testing beforehand is recommended, especially for darker skin tones, to assess any potential white cast. This sunscreen could be a good option for those seeking mineral-based sun protection with a dewy, radiant finish, but a patch test is key to ensure no white cast remains.

DERMALOGICA INVISIBLE PHYSICAL DEFENSE MINERAL SUNSCREEN SPF30

Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF30 caters to those who prioritize lightweight, mineral sun protection. This fragrance-free formula is designed to blend seamlessly and offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection against UVA and UVB rays. It also boasts blue light protection, beneficial in today’s tech-driven world. While Dermalogica emphasizes the weightless, invisible aspect, some mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast. Testing beforehand is recommended, especially for darker skin tones. If you prioritize a mineral sunscreen with a lightweight feel and broad protection, Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense could be a good option, but a patch test is key to assess any white cast.

CERAVE AM FACIAL MOISTURIZING LOTION WITH SUNSCREEN

CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen is a multitasking morning moisturizer that simplifies your routine. This fragrance-free, oil-free lotion offers SPF 30 broad-spectrum protection to shield your skin from UV rays. It also contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, which work together to hydrate and restore the skin’s natural protective barrier. While CeraVe doesn’t specifically mention dark skin tones, its lightweight texture suggests minimal white cast. However, as with any sunscreen, testing beforehand is recommended to ensure compatibility with your skin.

PRACTICAL SUN PROTECTION TIPS FOR SKIN OF COLOR 

While the dangers of UV rays are well-known for fair skin, sun protection is equally important for people with darker skin tones. Skin cancer and premature aging can affect everyone, regardless of melanin content.

Sun protection goes beyond sunscreen. Seek shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 am and 2 pm. Cover up with sun-protective clothing like long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and pants to provide additional barriers. Don’t forget sunglasses! They shield your eyes and the delicate surrounding skin.

Sunscreen remains your key defense. Choose a broad-spectrum formula with SPF 30 or higher and apply it liberally and often.

CONCLUSION

Sunscreen is an essential part of sun protection, but it’s not the only piece of the puzzle. Remember to also seek shade, wear protective clothing, and reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Even with darker skin tones, sun damage can occur, so be vigilant! When choosing a sunscreen, consulting with a dermatologist is ideal. They can assess your individual skin type and needs to recommend the perfect formula. With so many great options available, you’re sure to find a sunscreen you’ll love to wear every day!

16 BEST VITAMIN C BODY LOTIONS FOR SKIN PROTECTION

You’re probably aware that vitamin C is a crucial component of your skincare routine, but I’d like to let you in on a secret: you should also apply vitamin C to your body. It is an all-around excellent skincare ingredient and probably the most well-studied of all antioxidants in skincare, which is significant because we know it penetrates the skin well and promotes collagen production, lightens hyperpigmentation, and neutralizes free radicals, thereby protecting against DNA damage caused by reactive oxygen species.

When selecting a vitamin C-enriched body lotion, look for one that includes nutritious elements such as shea butter and ceramides. We’ve compiled a list of the best body moisturizers with vitamin C. 

BEAUTY PIE Vitamin C Bio-Vitamin Brightening Body Lotion

With a combination of vitamin C, brown algae extract, and omega fatty acids, the Superdose Vitamin C Bio-Vitamin Brightening Body Lotion fights off damaged cells and gives our skin’s microbiome a healthy boost. The name says it all: this Beauty Pie moisturizer is a supercharged skin treatment that is not recommended for persons with sensitive skin or psoriasis. The manufacturer recommends using it daily for brightening, firming, and rejuvenating effects, or twice to three times each week to help prevent symptoms of aging. 

NIVEA Nourishing Skin Firming Body Lotion

NIVEA’s soothing skin-firming body lotion, which contains two antioxidants, Q10, and Vitamin C, ranks first. Suitable for dry to very dry skin, this vitamin C-infused body lotion will leave you with smoother, firmer skin in only two weeks. This lightweight body lotion increases skin suppleness, allowing it to retain moisture while also revitalizing it. The creamy composition deeply hydrates and nourishes your skin for up to 48 hours. The lotion is absorbed into your body and fights free radicals, minimizing the appearance of aging. However, it is not fragrance-free, which may cause discomfort to some people.

Gold Bond Ultimate Restoring Lotion

The Gold Bond Ultimate Restoring Lotion is specifically designed to revitalize dry, thin, inelastic, aging, dull, and damaged skin. It noticeably enhances the skin by making it moisturized, smooth, supple, radiant, and clear, according to the reviewers. This lotion contains natural components such as green tea, shea butter, jojoba esters, orange and lemon extracts, and skin-nourishing elements. Ceramides fortify the skin, while CoQ10 increases skin firmness. This lotion also contains an improved lipid blend, which improves skin clarity and radiance. It hydrates the skin for 24 hours and promotes beautiful skin. 

However, if you have sensitive skin, you should reconsider this because it contains parabens, silicone, and scents.

AloeMoist Organics Full Body Cream

The AloeMoist Organics Full Body Cream has 30 organic ingredients, including vitamins C, minerals, amino acids, natural oils, active botanicals, and antioxidants. These nutrients nourish the skin by promoting cellular renewal, collagen formation, and overall skin health. Antioxidants defend the skin against premature aging and environmental damage. The creamy, silky texture penetrates deep into the layers of skin, rejuvenating it from the inside. It heals dry, scaly, and irritated skin, removes stretch marks, and soothes sunburn. The lightweight composition treats acne evens out skin tone and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Gold Bond Men’s Essentials Daily Body & Hand Lotion

Gold Bond’s Essential Daily lotion is designed specifically to moisturize men’s rough, dry skin and contains 7 moisturizers and 3 vitamins. Moisture and oil are essential for maintaining healthy skin; without them, the skin becomes dry and tight. A regular skincare routine that includes washing and moisturizing hydrates and replenishes men’s dry skin. Vitamin C helps the skin protect itself against external environmental damage. Use this daily moisturizing lotion to achieve dramatically smoother and softer skin. This body lotion has been dermatologically tested so it is completely of high quality. 

St Ives Fresh Hydration Lotion

St.Ives Fresh Hydration Lotion hydrates and refreshes the skin. It contains 100% natural moisturizers such as glycerin and shea butter. The reviewers observed that this lightweight, fast-absorbing lotion strengthens and invigorates the skin. It contains grapefruit extract and vitamin C, which help to cleanse and nourish the skin. Grapefruit extract detoxifies the skin, whereas vitamin C brightens and evens the skin tone. Shea butter contains vitamins A, E, and F, as well as fatty acids that deeply nourish, leaving you with a luxurious feel and better skin. Glycerin increases skin quality, making it soft and supple.

Vaseline Radiant X Even Tone Nourishing Body Lotion

Vaseline’s recently launched Radiant X range was developed in collaboration with dermatologists and is made with niacinamide, coconut oil, vitamin C, peptides, and lipids to benefit darker skin tones. It has been clinically proven to significantly eliminate dark spots and even skin tone in just 14 days while also providing 72 hours of moisture. Customers are all impressed by the evident improvement in skin texture and tone after only a few weeks of use, thanks to niacinamide. 

Medix 5.5 Cream Face Lotion & Body Lotion

Applying the Medix face and body lotion allows you to reap the benefits of turmeric, ferulic acid, and vitamin C. This body moisturizer addresses aging, dark spots, sun damage, and uneven skin tone. Turmeric improves skin tone, while ferulic acid protects against sun damage. This lightweight lotion filled with shea butter, aloe vera, vitamin E, glycerin, and ginger promotes luminous, even-toned skin. Shea butter moisturizer prevents moisture loss, while aloe vera soothes and hydrates. Vitamin E protects against free radicals and UV damage.

Beauty Without Cruelty Hand And Body Lotion

The Beauty without Cruelty Hand and Body Lotion contains vitamin C and CoQ10 to help protect and nourish the skin. The skin moisturizer also includes essential oils, natural emollients, and humectants. The essential oils nourish, balance, and tone your skin. Emollients and humectants help to hydrate, protect, and soothe the skin. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the skin from aging, sun exposure, and environmental stresses. CoQ10 makes the skin firmer and smoother. According to the reviews, this lotion is especially beneficial to drier skin types because it moisturizes, heals, and protects the skin, leaving it youthful, radiant, and smooth.

IMAGE Skincare VITAL C Hydrating Hand and Body Lotion

This ultra-hydrating body lotion is part of IMAGE’s best-selling VITAL C range. It contains various forms of vitamin C to make skin brighter and more luminous, as well as shea butter, macadamia oil, and grapeseed oil for smoother, more glowing skin. The aroma is a light, invigorating citrus that’s perfect for starting the morning. It also absorbs well, leaving your skin well-hydrated. It effectively repairs dry, damaged skin and contains all of the same anti-aging benefits as the rest of the line.

Mario Badescu Hydro Moisturizer with Vitamin C

Mario Badescu Hydro Moisturizer packed with Vitamin C promotes vibrant, balanced skin. This lightweight face cream is designed specifically for mixed and sensitive skin, providing a refreshing blast of hydration. It is infused with Vitamin C, which revitalizes your complexion, leaving it radiant and smooth. This non-greasy product easily absorbs, producing a smooth, even skin tone without discomfort. Experience the confluence of science and nature, giving your skin the attention it requires. Elevate your skincare routine with this soft yet efficient moisturizer that will reveal your natural radiance.

Made From Earth Creme Therapy

The Made From Earth Creme Therapy is an organic face and body moisturizer formulated with organic aloe vera, coconut, cocoa, avocado, and jojoba oils. These natural and gentle substances relieve itching, eczema, and dermatitis while also repairing dry skin. This moisturizer includes anti-aging compounds like vitamins A, B, C, and E. This skin healing lotion spreads quickly and enters the skin, moisturizing it. It is a 100% natural, 92% organic moisturizer that promotes skin health. It has been dermatologically tested and chemical-free, which is ideal for those who have sensitive skin. 

AmLactin Daily Vitamin C Exfoliating & Hydrating Lotion

AmLactin is the most popular dermatologist-recommended moisturizer containing lactic acid. It has created a name for itself by outperforming bumps such as keratosis pilaris. This solution contains lactic acid to exfoliate dead skin and improve cell turnover, as well as vitamin C to promote radiance, evenness, and brightness. This lotion feels like a piece of silk and leaves your skin gleaming. When you apply this to your skin, it instantly moisturizes and gives it a healthy, non-greasy sheen.

Natura Bissé C+C Vitamin Summer Lotion

Natura Bisse C+C Vitamin Summer Lotion refreshes and revitalizes the skin. If you enjoy outdoor activities, you cannot live without this refreshing lotion. This composition was designed to help heal skin after sun exposure, but it works well all year. It can be applied to both the body and the face, allowing you to cover yourself from head to toe. The combination of vitamins C and E, bitter orange extract, aloe vera, and a pro-melanin complex repairs, protects, soothes, and hydrates skin while also helping to keep it tan.

Dr Teal’s Glow & Radiance Body Lotion

Dr. Teal’s Glow and Radiance body lotion contains pure Epsom salt, aloe vera, shea butter, cocoa butter, and vitamin E, which work together with Vitamin C to give your skin a radiant glow, a brighter and more even skin tone—the effects of Vitamin C result in a smooth, silky soft skin with a youthful appearance. Epsom salt softens rough, dry skin by gently exfoliating and removing dead skin cells. Enriched with important vitamins, the combination of aloe vera, shea butter, cocoa butter, and vitamin E completely soothes, hydrates, and moisturizes the skin, forming a protective barrier to retain moisture and prevent skin damage.

The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow-Protect Lotion SPF 30

This product provides two benefits in one: it contains vitamin C and protects the skin with SPF30. It is the only body lotion with SPF30 on this list. The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow-Protect Lotion enhances your skin’s natural brilliance while protecting it from the sun with an SPF30 moisturizer. It is perfect for daily usage as it hydrates and protects the skin, leaving it radiant. The lotion is heavy, but it does not leave the skin feeling greasy.

Conclusion

Vitamin C body creams have proven to be a game changer for many people. Their potent mixture significantly removed dark spots, improved skin tone, and gave you a beautiful and young appearance. As word spread about their astounding outcomes, demand for the lotion increased quickly, making it a highly sought-after product on the market. Their success transformed the skincare industry, giving customers a consistent solution for healthier, more vibrant skin.