5 Sunscreens Perfect for Dark Skin Tones
One thing we hate hearing is “darker complexions don’t need daily sun protection.” Really? We want to clear this up right here and now. No matter your skin tone, you should be wearing sunscreen every day.
No matter the color, skin is skin, and we must protect it, love it, and cherish it. The one issue is, many sunscreens are made for lighter skin tones. We’re not saying these sunscreens won’t work when it comes to protection, but they do go on white, chalky and tend to leave a white residue after applied. This isn’t sufficient for people with dark skin tones. That said, there are sunscreens out there that complement deeper complexions. Scroll down for five of our favorite sunscreens for dark skin tones, researched and used by a few of our writers and several of our readers that swear by them.
Drunk Elephant
Umbra Sheer™ Physical Daily Defense SPF 30, $34.00 available at drunkelephant.com.
Zinc oxide is difficult to formulate into a wearable sunscreen, especially for darker skin. Because it’s very whitening, this sunscreen disappears on the surface of the skin no matter the complexion. Mineral sunscreens such as Umbra Sheer are helpful for dark skin because they deflect heat.
It Cosmetics
Black Girl Sunscreen
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30, $15.99 available at Target.
Black Girl Sunscreen is specifically made for brown skin by women of color. The formula applies clear and hydrates the skin without the greasy feeling.
Julep
Julep No Excuses Invisible Sunscreen Gel, $28.00 available on Amazon.
Julep No Excuses Invisible Sunscreen Gel goes on smoothly and dries quickly to a satin finish. It’s perfect to wear under makeup. The Tamellia seed oil hydrates and clarifies skin and the Vitamin E protects against dehydration and free radical damage.
Glossier
Glossier Invisible Shield, $25 available at Glossier.com.