10 Best sunscreens that won’t leave a white cast on dark skin tones
10 Best sunscreens that won’t leave a white cast on dark skin tones is a dream come true. It’s no secret that people of color have had a difficult time finding sunscreen products that compliment dark skin tones. I hear it all the time: “I don’t need to wear sunscreen because I’ve got melanin.” … “Sunscreens make my skin look white,” … “Sunscreens make my skin look purple.” There is a common misconception that dark skin doesn’t need sunscreen.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, this dangerous misconception has led to more people of color being diagnosed with late stage melanoma. This is because UVA/UVB rays from the sun penetrate ALL skin types. Therefore, all people, no matter skin tone, should wear sunscreen daily. So if you’re going to wear sunscreen every day, it might as well blend seamlessly with your skin tone. After all, no one wants to look like they’re wearing sunscreen. Over the years, some companies have developed sunscreen formulations to solve this problem.
We must talk about the difference between physical and chemical sun protection before diving into my list of recommendations,
Chemical Sunscreens contain a combination of ingredients that are absorbed into the skin. These ingredients are: avobenzone, oxybenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and octinoxate. They ingredients can sometimes be irritating to the skin, so they are not recommended for people who have sensitive skin.
Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens contain ingredients that reflect UVA and UVB rays. These ingredients are: zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. Historically, Physical sunscreens tend to leave a white, grayish or purplish cast on darker skin. However, in recent years, more companies have developed formulations with micronized minerals, resulting in a sheer end product.
10 Best Broad Spectrum Sunscreens that won’t leave a white cast on dark skin tones
Moisturizers:
- Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 – A moisturizing sunscreen formulated with jojoba, avocado, sunflower oils, and cocoa butter. It is Chemical
2. Bolden Brightening Moisturizer SPF 30 – A moisturizing sunscreen formulated with Vitamin C, Squaline, and Safflower oil. It is Chemical
3. AlumierMD Sheer Hydration Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40. It’s sheer, hydrating and moisturizing. It is Physical
4. ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ – A non-tinted mineral sunscreen with SPF 50+. It is Physical
5. Image Skincare Hydrating Moisturizer SPF 30. Works well on sensitive and dry skin. It is Physical.
Gels:
6. Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 – A gel-like colorless, weightless sunscreen that applies smooth especially under makeup. It is Chemical
7. Glossier Invisible Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 35 – A silky gel sunscreen that applies smooth especially under makeup. It is Chemical
Acne Prone, Sensitive & Discolored skin:
8. Replenix Sheer Physical Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 Plus – A Physical, unscented sunscreen. Though good for all skin types, it is highly favorable for sensitive skin. It is Physical
9. Elta MD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 Sunscreen – Formulated with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and lactic acid, which promote cell turnover and even out your complexion. It is Combination Physical and Chemical.
10. PCA Skin Weightless Broad Spectrum SPF 45 – A light weight formulation disappears into skin. It is Combination Physical and Chemical
These are 10 sunscreens that apply seamlessly on dark skin tones. I’ve tested all of these on my skin. If you know someone who can benefit from this list, please share. And if you have a sunscreen to add to this list, please share in the comments.
xoxoxo,
Dr. G
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