Sunscreen and skin tones—so many misconceptions

There is a common misconception that the higher melanin (which produces skin pigment) in people with darker skin protects them from the sun. Science shows that people of color can get sunburned, have pigment changes, and even get skin cancer. No matter the color of your skin, all skin needs broad-spectrum sun protection. People with darker skin are 3x more likely to be diagnosed with advanced-stage melanoma due to lack of awareness.1Research shows skin cancer affects approximately 4.5 million people of color each year in the US.2 

Everyone has seen a bad sunburn. But did you realize that redness, dark spots, and uneven skin tones can also be the result of sun damage? And fine lines and wrinkles are visible evidence of photoaging—premature skin aging caused by sun exposure. 

• It doesn’t feel good on my skin—it’s thick and sticky
• It doesn’t blend with my skin tone
• It clogs my pores and makes me break out

Lots of people have issues with sunscreen.  What’s your reason?

The good news is now there is a family of lightweight sunscreens that feel amazing on skin. They are formulated for specific skin types and blend easily across a range of skin tones. They also offer UVA/UVB sun protection, and because they are formulated with antioxidants, they go beyond neutralizing to also guard from free radicals, as well as help support skin health.

References: 1. Skin cancer in people of color. Skin Cancer Foundation website. https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-skin-ofcolor/#stats. Accessed February 14, 2023. 2. What are the Fitzpatrick skin types? Healthline Media website. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skincare/fitzpatrick-skin-types. Accessed February 14, 2023.