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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!

31 Best Gifts for Girlfriends that She Will Absolutely Love

There are many reasons why you could be seeking the perfect gift for your girlfriend, not only for Christmas or Valentine’s Day. Perhaps this is your first anniversary together, or her birthday is approaching, and you want to make this year special with a thoughtful present. If you know where to search, there are many thoughtful and cute presents for girlfriends available that will make her feel seen, cherished, and loved. But do not worry if you are feeling overwhelmed: We have compiled a list of 31 best gifts for girlfriends, ranging from staples like skincare to creative card games.

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1 Instant Camera

If she enjoys taking pictures of everything, give her this beautiful instant camera that prints out photos in seconds. Each photo has a vintage film vibe, making it ideal for creating or adding to a collage of your memories.

Ugg Scuffette II Slippers

Make sure she has warm and comfortable slippers ready for the Christmas season since cozy days are ahead. These supersoft best-sellers are perfect for lazing at home and binge-watching her favorite shows. They have a wonderful flexible sole and, of course, the comfortable fluffy inside that you would expect from Ugg.

Glossier Fresh-Faced Set

Let us be honest: Who does not appreciate a gift that they will genuinely use, such as skincare products? If she prefers a clean and uncomplicated cosmetic routine, this glossier gift set includes their renowned highlighter, viral lip balm, and brow gel to complement her natural features.

Lunya Washable Silk Robe

This washable silk robe is an immediate change from the one she has been wearing for years. It is not only softer than cashmere, but it is also light enough to double as sleepwear, even if she sleeps hot.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

We have sold out of this Lululemon bag more times than we can count. Why, you might ask? It contains everything, including her wallet and keys, and she may wear it around her waist or across her chest.

Jo Malone Cologne Collection Set

Are you in love with a perfume connoisseur? Give her this Jo Malone discovery package so she may discover her new favorite aroma before investing in a full-sized perfume. One of Kate Middleton’s favorites is included.

Laneige Besties Set

Dewy skin is always in, and Laneige is all about it. Maintain her skin’s radiance and health with this package, which contains a cleanser, serum, moisturizer, face mask, and overnight lip mask (yes, that one), ideal for the girl who likes to hydrate.

Long-Distance Touch Bracelet Set

With this touch bracelet, you may let her know you are thinking of her no matter how far apart you are. Simply tap the bracelet to make your partner’s vibrate and light up. You may even transmit up to ten touches at once, using your own secret code if you choose.

I Wrote a Book About Us

With prompts like “I will never get tired of the way we____________,” and “I’m pretty sure the stars brought us together so we could_____________.”This gift is a romantic gesture that’s sure to lead to a storybook ending.

Custom Song Code Plaque

This acrylic photo print may be modified to display a charming photograph of the two of you or an album cover, making it a thoughtful, personalized way to bring your favorite song to life. A scannable code at the bottom will take your girlfriend to the Spotify song of your choosing.

100 Movies Scratch-Off Poster

If the two of you already binge-watch a long list of Netflix shows and want to branch out from your typical routine, this scratch-off movie poster is the ideal gift. It contains the top 100 films of all time, which can help you keep track of the films you have viewed together and even motivate you to see new ones.

Royal Mink Sherpa Heated Throw

This heated shawl is the ideal gift for the cold-weather girlfriend. While we can not promise she will not steal your hoodies, this sherpa-lined blanket will keep her cozy and warm. It has four heat settings to deliver the ideal amount of warmth while preserving the comfort and feel of a regular blanket.

We’re Not Really Strangers Card Game

This might be a gift for both you and your girlfriend. If you want to spice up game night or simply get to know each other better, this game will force you to dig deep and get closer. Inquisitive questions like “What do you admire most about me?” are likely to increase intimacy between the two of you.

RMIS129-PINK Mini Fridge

This little fridge will be your girlfriend’s new go-to appliance for anything from skincare to munchies. People love this little fridge for its compact size and, of course, before it’s pink. You can set the space to best suit your eating and sipping needs thanks to flexible shelves.

Shiatsu Foot Massager

If she wants a foot massage frequently, this pampering device will help satisfy her demand for a good knead with ankle-free mobility, heat to soothe stiff muscles, and five pressure settings – no hands required! Essentially, this gift for your girlfriend will provide her with a spa-like massage without requiring her to leave the house.

Love Letters Of Great Men Vol. 1

Are you not a romantic? With a book that will show her how you genuinely feel, let the lusty words of various legendary personalities do the talking. It iconically made an appearance in Sex and the City: The Movie, but whether or not your love story is as epic as Carrie and Big’s, she will enjoy getting a present from the heart.

LifeAround2Angels Bath Bombs Gift Set

Give your girlfriend the gift of solitude and quiet — in the bath. This collection, handcrafted in California from shea and cocoa butter, comprises 12 individually wrapped, uniquely shaped bath bombs, each with its own distinct smell to help her relax and leave her skin nourished, especially after a long day.

SKIMS Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress

If your girlfriend has not already purchased this viral Skims dress, now is your chance to do so. This body-hugging slip dress has a straight neckline, a maxi floor length, and a delightfully soft feel. It is constructed of a cozy ribbed material. It also offers adjustable straps for the most drapey, comfy fit.

AT-LP60X Turntable

This turntable is ideal for playing your lover’s record collection if she enjoys a classic listening experience. It features two speeds and a cast metal platter that looks amazing while also minimizing vibrations.

Takeya Cold-Brew Coffee Maker

If she prefers cold brew, this cold-brew coffee maker will make her mornings a million times better. It’s small, leakproof construction and the fact that all parts are dishwasher safe. She just fills the filter with her favorite ground coffee and in a few hours, she will be sipping on a delightful cold brew.

Slip Silk Pillowcase

Slip’s incredibly soft silk pillowcase will have her sleeping like a king. This machine-washable pillowcase keeps hair frizz and flyaways at bay while she sleeps, as well as creases and wrinkles on her skin. That is what we would love to refer to as beauty sleep.

Insulated Wine Freezer Cooling Cups

If she forgets to cool her wine ahead of time, she can always have a chilled glass on hand with these freezer wine glasses. Their BPA-free plastic is double-walled and filled with cooling gel to maintain the ideal wine temperature. Place these stemless wine glasses in the freezer for white wine and in the refrigerator for red wine.

Bathtub Caddy Tray

A divided caddy tray will improve the quality of her bath time. This robust tray is made of waterproof bamboo and features an adjustable book and tablet stand, a wine glass holder, and a secure slot for her cell phone. The built-in candle tray lets her enjoy a scented candle as she soaks.

Women + Patterns + Plants: A Self-Care Coloring Book by Sarina Mantle

This self-care coloring book honors divine feminine energy and includes lovely drawings of women surrounded by flora, doing yoga, dreaming, and simply flourishing in the light for your girlfriend to fill in with whichever medium she prefers. She will find haikus and prompts to awaken her mind and heart alongside these wonderfully patterned visuals.

Puffy Gym Bag Travel Duffel Bag

The Calpak Luka Duffel Bag knockoff offers an incredible amount of storage, with an outer zip pocket, a separate shoe compartment, and numerous slip and zip compartments on the inside. It is also designed to fit under the seat in front of her, making it ideal for both air and vehicle travel. Combine this gift with a surprise trip to make it even more memorable!

Crocs Classic Clog

Crocs are a sure wonderful gift idea for your girlfriend if she does not already have a pair of these comfortable, waterproof, and strangely extremely in-style “ugly shoes.” She will definitely wear them everywhere.

Nest Votive Candles

With so many fragrances to choose from, you will have no trouble finding the perfect Nest scent for your girlfriend. These gorgeous candles look as good as they smell on a tabletop or bedside, and candles are a classic gift idea, so you truly can not go wrong.

GreenCallow 4 Mini Potted Artificial Plants

If your girlfriend wants to add some greenery to her area but lacks the gardening skills, give her these gorgeous artificial succulents. They look great clustered together or scattered throughout the house, and they are a low-maintenance way to liven up any area. 

Lego Flower Bouquet

A Lego Flower Bouquet is the ideal gift for anyone looking to surprise their girlfriend with flowers while still spending quality time together. This 756-piece set is not only a fun activity to undertake as a pair, but it is also a work of art that can be placed as home decor to remind her of the happy memories you shared while putting it together. 

Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Sandals

If your girl has seen the new Barbie film starring Margot Robbie, the Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Sandals are almost certainly on her wishlist. These popular sandals are flying off the shelves since they look to be the same pair as seen in the film, just in a brighter hue. 

TeeTurtle | Plushmates | Cat | Orange Tabby 

You have most likely seen the octopus on TikTok. Get the charming plushies that hold hands, the TeeTurtle Reversible Cat Plushmates!  These plush toys have magnetic hands, making them even more charming than before! They clasp hands while they are on the cheerful side, but not when they are on the angry side! 

We have created a list of the finest presents for girlfriends that will delight her, whether she is a low-key minimalist or the adventurous sort with a bucket list full of daring ideas. These presents for girlfriends will be sure to impress, with anything from beauty kits consisting of skincare and makeup must-haves to comfy loungewear for the homebody and even a couples toy that you can both enjoy together. Check out the products listed above for more ideas.