“SPF is essential for everyone, regardless of skin color. People of color may have more natural protection against UV damage, but sunscreen is still crucial for preventing skin cancer and premature aging.” ~Dr. Jane Smith, Dermatologist
Beauty Editor’s Note
It’s a common misconception that people of color don’t need sunscreen due to their darker skin tone, but the truth is that our skin still needs protection as it has an SPF of 13 and can be damaged by the sun. Below is a general guideline for selecting sunscreen for people of color, along with some helpful links to help you make an informed decision. Enjoy the sun safely! Dana
Breaking the Myths & Embracing SPF
Selecting the right SPF for people of color is crucial for effective sun protection. Experts recommend choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for sunscreens that contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are less likely to leave a white cast on darker skin tones. It’s important to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, especially when outdoors or swimming.
To use SPF properly, apply a generous amount to all exposed skin, including the face, neck, ears, and hands. Don’t forget areas like the scalp, lips, and tops of feet. Ensure the sunscreen is applied at least 15 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to fully absorb into the skin. Remember to reapply after sweating or swimming, even if the sunscreen is labeled as water-resistant.
When looking for an effective sunscreen, consider products specifically formulated for people of color. Look for lightweight, non-greasy formulas that won’t clog pores or leave a residue. Opt for sunscreens with antioxidants like vitamin C or niacinamide to help protect against skin damage and hyperpigmentation. Experiment with different brands and formulations to find what works best for your skin type and lifestyle.
Final thoughts
Choosing the right sunscreen is crucial for effective sun protection. The recommended amount is a teaspoon for the face and neck, and an ounce for the body, equivalent to two tablespoons. Personal preference plays a significant role, with physical sunscreens, particularly mineral-based ones, often preferred over chemical alternatives due to potential skin issues. It’s important to note that SPF in makeup may not meet the minimum requirement of 30, so relying solely on it for sun protection is not advisable. Active skincare ingredients like alpha hydroxy, beta hydroxy, and retinol can increase skin sensitivity, making sunscreen application essential for adequate protection.
By Dana Hinnant
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Connecting With Dana Hinnant
Connecting With Bold Blind Beauty
Author Bio
Dana Hinnant, a Washingtonian native, whose journey into the beauty industry began 20 years ago after receiving her B.A. in Hearing and Speech Sciences from the University of Maryland in 2000. She received her aesthetics training at Von Lee International School of Esthetics in Baltimore, MD.
Dana started as a local makeup artist and events coordinator with Alluring Looks, Inc. in the Washington DC metropolitan area. Her articles were featured in local publications such as Pose Magazine and Yndigo newsletter. In the mid-2000s, she was a volunteer instructor with the American Cancer Society’s Look Good…Feel Better program, which landed her an esthetician position at an area day spa.
Over the past several years, Dana has worked with various non-profit organizations and small businesses. During her tenure as the President of the Health and Wellness division of the National Federation of the Blind DC affiliate, she utilized the platform to provide salon safety tips and skincare advice throughout the community. She was a consultant with the Ecumenical Health Council in Port Towns, MD doing beauty and wellness presentations at area churches and events.
In 2019, Dana received the Maryland Association of Community Service Award for Volunteer of the Year due to her community engagement work for The Arc of Prince George’s County. In addition, she also received the Volunteer of the Year award for 2020 from The Arc of Maryland. She is a member and an ambassador with the Professional Beauty Association. Dana is one of the co-owners of Capitol Collective Consulting LLC which launched in April 2021.
Image Descriptions
- The header is an image of a smiling woman with curly dark hair. She is looking directly at the camera and has a warm, friendly expression on her face. The focus is on the woman’s face and upper body and the background is slightly blurred. The image has a casual informal feel as if it may have been captured during a casual conversation or interaction.
- A heartwarming moment between a mother and her young daughter. The little girl, with adorable pigtails in her hair, beams at her mother with a face smeared with sunscreen. Her mother, partially visible, is applying sunscreen to the girl’s face, preparing her for a day of fun in the sun at the beach. The overall tone of the image is joyful and captures the loving bond between a parent and child.
- Author bio photo is a headshot of Dana wearing a black scoop neck top under a black jacket. She has glowing caramel colored skin and short dark hair.