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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!

15 Best Primers for Oily Skin For Your Base Flawless with

To produce a smooth base for your face makeup or foundation (and stop it from sliding around all over your face), a decent primer for oily skin will combine blurring, oil-absorbing, and clarifying elements. However, even if you don’t wear makeup, it will still keep your skin matte and free of shine for hours and help keep your pores clean of extra oil and buildup. For those who are still looking for a primer, this list of 15 best primers for oily skin is for you.

Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer

This pore-minimizing makeup primer glides on your skin like butter to aid in laying a smooth foundation-application surface. The face is instantly matte and pore-free after using the silicone-based facial primer for oily skin. With this facial primer, which works with all types of foundation—from cushions to sticks to liquids to powders—say goodbye to uneven skin surfaces. Lock your makeup for a flawless filtered effect without emptying your wallet. But if you apply too much, it could become a little clumpy. With its reputation and quality, we can totally say that this is the best primer for oily skin.

Rimmel Stay Matte Mattifying Primer

The matte primer’s incredibly lightweight composition leaves your face feeling smooth and silky before applying makeup. The liquid primer’s composition leaves your skin feeling light and seals in your makeup for a very long time. Aid in controlling shine and eradicating oiliness from your skin so that it won’t feel greasy for up to 8 hours. With the pore-blurring effect, you may get rid of pores and get smooth, beautiful skin, which enhances your makeup every time. Although the product appears to apply readily,the foundation does not spread over it smoothly or evenly, but it is still a good, reasonably priced primer.

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Shine Killer Mattifying Primer

A primer that lives up to its name is included with NYX Professional Makeup. The oil-absorbing charcoal in the Shine Killer primer is great for preventing greasiness and giving you an ultra-matte look all day. Another plus for individuals who don’t wish to have a negative impact on the environment is the product’s cruelty-free formulation. The canvas you’ve been searching for is yours thanks to the shine killer! The finest primer to keep your base immaculate for hours, however, is not this one if your complexion is really oily.

e.l.f. Power Grip Primer

Your makeup? It’s going nowhere. This gel-based face primer has the ability to grip your makeup and give skin a soft-focus impression for a smoother complexion. Prepare your skin with it. This makeup primer hydrates, prepares, and smoothes to perfection, enhancing the look and feel of your skin. It contains potent elements including Hyaluronic Acid. Since the formula is clear, it serves as the best foundation for applying makeup to all skin types and tones. We must warn you before you purchase it that this primer is extremely sticky, so you don’t need to worry about your base, but if there is primer on your eyes, your lashes will get really clumpy.

MILK Hydro Grip Primer

For the past few years, Milk Makeup has been a disruptor in the cosmetics business thanks to its high-performing, vegan products. If you’re looking for a primer that will make your skin appear to be shining from the inside out, Milk Makeup’s Hydro Grip Primer is a must-have item. Additionally, this product is vegan, nourishes the skin, and prolongs the use of your cosmetics. Everything you were seeking in a primer was provided by this product; it is moisturizing, energizing, illuminating, and long-wearing without seeming unnatural. However, for individuals who like a matte look, it might be too moisturizing.

Tatcha The Silk Canvas Primer

The opulent primer Tatcha Silk Canvas Primer was developed by the Japanese-inspired skincare company Tatcha. It is intended to give a velvety-smooth foundation for applying makeup and to lengthen its wear. Pores, fine wrinkles, and other flaws should appear less noticeable thanks to the product’s formulation of skin-friendly components. Silk powder, a fundamental component of Tatcha Silk Canvas Primer that helps to mattify the skin and produce a soft-focus look, is a vital component. Additionally, it includes a combination of botanical extracts that nourish the skin and offer antioxidant benefits, including green tea, rice, and algae. Contrasted to the majority of goods now on the market, it’s a somewhat expensive primer, but trust us when we say it’s worthwhile.

e.l.f. Hydrating Face Primer

The ideal primer is the foundation for the ideal makeup. e.l.f has always been so amazing at making makeup items affordable so you can totally believe us when we say that this primer is a 10 out of 10. This moisturizing primer, which is made with grapes and vitamins A, C, and E, gives you a smooth, flawless canvas for long-lasting makeup application. Excellent for brightening your face and reducing pores before applying makeup. You might experience some issues utilizing the pump dispenser because it is prone to breaking. However, you should give it a try if you don’t mind the packing.

Neutrogena Shine Control Primer

Although Neutrogena’s primer costs $12, don’t let that deceive you into believing it’s ineffective. You’ll be amazed at how long-lasting the product is and how your skin stays shine-free even after wearing it for several hours. Additionally, because it doesn’t dry, it applies smoothly, which can provide you a smooth, even base.  Bear in mind that this product does include scent, so if you have sensitive skin, be sure to test a small area first before using it all over your face.

Illamasqua Matte Veil Primer

Illamasqua’s super-light gel-cream composition can be a hit if you dislike how heavier creams feel on your skin. Oil-free moisturizing elements like glycerin ensure that you don’t become too dry while the mattifying components work to absorb excess oil and essentially create a shine-controlling “veil” over your face throughout the day. Who wants flaky makeup, after all? On oily skin, it most definitely works wonders, however, the cost can be a bit high.

Glossier Priming Moisturizer Balance

This oil-control gel cream from Glossier helps to manage shine while moisturizing the face because it is made with niacinamide and glycerin. Its translucency and gel-like texture make it ideal for use under makeup that spreads evenly and dries rapidly. To produce a flawless finish, it also has specialized power primers and willow bark extract. If you want to enhance the look of noticeable large pores and an uneven skin tone, get this. Although this has hydrating elements, if you have especially dry skin in some places, you might not want to use it. 

The Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer

We frequently turn to The Ordinary for its inexpensive yet effective skincare products, and we adore this silicone primer for several reasons. First of all, it has a clean formula that is devoid of parabens and sulfates and is vegan. Second, it incorporates cutting-edge adaptable silicone that hydrates and blurs the skin’s surface without leaving any greasiness behind. Downsides? Some reviews do express concern that it can cause makeup to pill and wrinkle.

Maybelline New York Face Studio Master Prime Blur + Smooth Primer

Primer is the first step to flawless! With Maybelline New York’s Master Prime, you may minimize skin issues and enhance your makeup appearance. Your main skin issues will be concealed by this primer, which is made with an active component base made of water. In order to ensure that your makeup lasts all day, it also has a lightweight formula that applies easily and doesn’t leave skin feeling greasy. It’s tested for allergies and skin conditions, making this primer suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. 

e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer

This primer is the best value on the market, which is why it became so popular on TikTok. Scoop out a tiny amount, knead the ingredients in between your hands, and then apply it to your face. All day and night, your makeup will look absolutely immaculate and your skin will appear matte and poreless. However, the pot’s packing can encourage the growth of bacteria.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Anti-Aging Primer

For oily skin (and, truthfully, all skin types), this four-in-one primer with sunscreen is a need for the summer. Anthelios is recommended in conjunction with other sun protection measures, sunscreens with superior UVA/UVB protection and antioxidants reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging brought on by the sun.  Apply a nickel-sized amount all over your face to hide enlarged pores, control shine, protect your skin from UV rays with chemical sunscreen filters, and reduce inflammation with antioxidants. The consistency feels thick and heavy, according to several reviews.

Neutrogena Shine Control Matte Booster Face Primer 

There are many excellent lightweight primers for oily skin, but this Neutrogena product is undoubtedly among the best. Since it has the same texture as a face serum, it absorbs quickly into the skin and blends well with other skincare and makeup products. Additionally, it contains rice protein, which absorbs oil, to absorb extra sebum throughout the day. However, unlike some other facial primers, this one doesn’t have blurring capabilities if you prefer a finish that resembles a filter.

Nothing tests a long-wear makeup recipe like greasy skin, regardless of whether you’re using a $200 or $2 foundation. When we take the time to contour our cheekbones or blend a sexy smokey eye, we know how frustrating it is when our oily skin and greasy lids ruin it in a matter of hours, or sometimes even minutes, depending on the humidity of the day. For the ideal purchase for your makeup and your budget, look through our list of the top 15 primers for oily skin.