how much zinc oxide for spf 50

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!

17 Best Acne Spot Treatments for pimple-free skin

Today, there are several options to treat acne, from topical skincare to oral drugs and in-office laser treatments. Buying an over-the-counter spot treatment to treat current breakouts and stop new ones from forming is one of the easiest and most popular ways to treat acne. You can start saying goodbye to breakouts from now on as these 16 best acne spot treatments can save you.

Best splurge treatment – Skinfix Acne+ 2% BHA Spot Treatment

By combining the potency of BHAs, azelaic acid, and niacinamide, this cream-style spot treatment from Skinfix decreases blemish size and irritation with just one application. The vegan and cruelty-free product employs salicylic acid to draw excess sebum and bacteria from even the most visible places without drying out the top layer of skin. It has a lightweight consistency that dries down like your favorite detox mask. Additionally, this spot treatment contains azelaic acid to reduce the possibility of post-acne scarring, unlike other treatments available. It is not, however, for those who want to treat cystic acne.

Best Drugstore Treatment -Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment

Your dermatologist may have suggested Differin if you have ever had persistent acne or moderate to severe acne. Because it contains adapalene (a topical retinoid), this over-the-counter retinol has a track record of reducing the frequency and severity of breakouts. This inexpensive pharmacy staple frees trapped germs in the pores and pushes them to the surface by boosting skin cell turnover. Although it is a successful treatment, retinoids and retinol have the potential to cause skin purging, irritation, and photosensitivity.

BEST BENZOYL PEROXIDE SPOT TREATMENT – La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Acne Spot Treatment

When it comes to French drugstore skincare, we all have to talk about La Roche-Posay. To quickly treat skin areas that are prone to breakouts, the Effaclar Duo Acne Treatment employs benzoyl peroxide at a concentration of little under 6%. According to the manufacturer, results can be observed in as little as three days, and extreme acne is reduced by 60% within 10 days. This lotion works for most skin types and is the ideal remedy for anyone with sensitive skin conditions because of the non-drying and oil-free recipe.

Best cruelty-free treatment – Versed Game Over Acne Drying Treatment

When it comes to cruelty-free, vegan, and green skincare, Versed has the market cornered. Sulfur and kaolin clay are used in the company’s Game Over Acne Drying Treatment to absorb excess sebum and gently exfoliate the skin, which helps to reduce the size and redness of most pustules and papules. Since the formula is opaque, apply it just at night or on days when you have no plans because it will not layer with other makeup.

Best Treatment for Hyperpigmentation – Topicals Faded Serum

The Topicals Faded Serum will help you say goodbye to hyperpigmentation. This vegan and cruelty-free brand used tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide in its composition to visibly lessen the look of post-acne discoloration and uneven skin tone as opposed to using skin lighteners like hydroquinone. It is a reliable serum that is simple to use.

Best budget treatment – Clean & Clear Advantage Spot Treatment

When it comes to treating acne, the Clean & Clear Advantage Acne Spot Treatment has been around for a very, very long time and is a tried-and-true solution. This option is fairly affordable and easily accessible at most drugstores. The Clean & Clear Advantage spot treatment goes on clear and leaves no residue while reducing the size and redness of pimples in just about four hours. You can use this cream during the day under your moisturizer and makeup because it’s quite light-weight. Unfortunately, this recipe does contain fragrance, therefore it might not be the best choice for someone who is sensitive to aroma.

Best Accessible Treatment – Clearasil Rapid Rescue Spot Treatment Cream

The Clearasil Rapid Rescue Spot Treatment Cream, which contains 10% benzoyl peroxide, will begin treating your breakouts in just four hours. It is a very thin gel that applies to the skin without any effort. Some people may find this formula a little bit irritating because of the high concentration of benzoyl peroxide it contains. Use this product sparingly at first, such as once every other night, if you have sensitive skin that is prone to breakouts. Additionally, benzoyl peroxide is known to stain clothing, so wash your hands after using it and use white pillowcases when you sleep.

Best Sulfur Treatment – Naturium Sulfur Spot Treatment

Sulfur is one of the less well-known but potent substances for treating acne. Niacinamide and fermented reishi also help to brighten your complexion. The Naturium Sulfur Spot Treatment works to gently diminish the appearance of blemishes and redness. Due to its scent, sulfur is not as popular as other acne treatments. But for people with more sensitive skin who can not handle adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, or any hydroxy acids, its drying, keratolytic, and antibacterial qualities help diminish acne lesions. Unfortunately, it can occasionally be a little drying. Although sulfur is not as potent an ingredient as retinols or benzoyl peroxide, you should still apply it to your breakouts with caution.

Best Packaging Treatment – Hero Cosmetics Pimple Correct Acne Clearing Gel Pen

Hero Cosmetics Pimple Correct Acne Clearing Gel Pen for a variety of reasons, including the fact that it contains substances uncommon in spot treatments, successfully eliminates hyperpigmentation and comes in a unique pen format. This selection also includes lactic acid and azelaic acid in addition to salicylic acid, which aids in pore cleansing. Particularly azelaic acid offers antibacterial, keratolytic, anti-inflammatory, and brightening advantages. Some people do, however, take issue with how picky the packing design is. 

BEST VALUE TREATMENT – Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Treatment

Compared to other spot treatments on this list, the Neutrogena On-The-Spot Acne Treatment is less irritating to the skin and contains a comparatively low amount of benzoyl peroxide (2.5%). This spot treatment cream, which contains 2.5% benzoyl peroxide, is lightweight, fast absorbed, and works discreetly. Its clinically proven effectiveness is without burning or drying the skin. When using this product, as with all benzoyl peroxide-containing treatments, you should exercise caution around clothing, towels, and linens because it can easily stain fabrics.

Best Daytime Treatment – Yon-Ka SOS Spot Acne Treatment

The Yon-Ka SOS Spot Acne Treatment is a fantastic blemish-fighter for the daytime because it is compact but potent. This selection, which is convenient to carry around in your bag and use throughout the day, has 95% ingredients of natural origin and is alcohol-free. Numerous organic components in this roll-on effectively heal blemishes. Ichthyol, which is high in sulfur and helps to cleanse the skin, and lactic acid, which has postbiotics to help balance the microbiota of your skin, work together to assist your skin. The lime also assists in clearing up your pores. 

Best Plant-Based Treatment – Kinship Pimple Potion Retinal and Salicylic Acid Treatment

The yellow gel used in the Kinship Pimple Potion Retinol and Salicylic Acid Treatment works on the skin overnight to minimize pigmentation and blemishes. For people who do not react well to benzoyl peroxide, this is a fantastic alternative. Additionally, we believe it is a wonderful choice for overnight because it contains retinol, which is best used at night because it can make your skin more susceptible to sunburn when used during the day. If you choose to use this product, you might want to start out slowly because some people have trouble tolerating retinol.  

Best non-drying treatment – CeraVe Blemish Control Gel

It is not unexpected that CeraVe did so well in our test of the top spot treatments given the brand’s reputation for affordable, effective skincare. This gel cleared blemishes and worked for all skin types because it was enriched with three crucial ceramides and a potent combination of alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids, including glycolic acid, lactic acid, and 2% salicylic acid (which is proven to reduce swelling and redness). 

Best Fast Treatment – Philosophy Clear Days Ahead Fast-Acting Acne Spot Treatment

Salicylic acid is used in this clever remedy to first target dead skin cells, and then antimicrobial substances are used to kill acne-causing bacteria. Salicylic acid helps keep pores clear in part by removing the very top layer of skin through exfoliation. You can use the mixture without worrying about flaking or inflammation because, despite the formula’s strength, it balances out any dryness and redness that may result from the use of nutritious squalane oil.

Best spot sticker Treatment – Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch The Original

One of the finest ways to quickly heal a spot is with pimple patches. Because it does an excellent job of adhering to your blemish and absorbing pus from a pimple, this choice from Hero Cosmetics is a best-seller. There are two ways pimple patches function. First of all, they prevent you from picking at your blemish or doing anything else that would aggravate your pimple by creating a protective seal around the skin. Second, the hydrocolloid patch efficiently drains the pus from your zit, making it less prominent on the skin and promoting faster healing. While pimple patches are effective for treating whiteheads and cysts that are on the skin’s surface, they are ineffective for treating blackheads or cysts that are deeply buried beneath the epidermis. 

Best Mask Treatment – JORI Daily Leave-On Acne Treatment Mask

JORI Skincare Daily Leave-On Acne Treatment Mask is a leave-on mask that may also be applied as a spot treatment. It was created by a board-certified dermatologist and his wife (who also experienced hormonal acne). In addition to saw palmetto, zinc, and niacinamide to address hormonal concerns on the skin and alleviate any irritation, it employs micronized 2.5% benzoyl peroxide to treat acne. This selection can be used as an overnight mask at night or as a makeup base throughout the day. If you are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide, you may want to begin by using this every other day or a few times a week until your skin becomes more tolerable. 

Best Toner treatment – Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner

This is a gentle resurfacing toner that brightens and balances the skin after cleansing. Glycolic Acid, Grapefruit, and Aloe work together to refine pores and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, revealing a more radiant and youthful-looking complexion. The aroma is mild, it stings a little, and it works wonderfully. It also goes a long way, since three to four drops on a gauze pad are sufficient for a full face.

We can help you make your life much easier with these fantastic acne treatments because life is difficult enough without having to constantly worry about the condition of our skin. We are confident that you can choose the best one without overspending on skincare because the 16 items listed above can treat acne.