Sun Care for Black and Asian Skin

It’s been a scorcher over the last week. That means that as well as deciding which pretty summer outfit to pair with those cute sandals you also need to make sure you have your sunscreen on. It’s also wise for you to carry it around with you so you can top up.

Over the years there has been more awareness about sun protection for melanin skin but just how important is it that Black and Asian women don’t leave home without their sunscreen? We decided to ask the experts about the myths regarding sun care for darker skin.

Dija Ayodele, founder of Black Skin Directory

How do you respond to the comment that those with Black and Asian skin do not need to apply sunscreen?

This is a completely false myth as Black skin and Asian requires some degree of sunscreen just like white skin to protect from burning. Additionally, sunscreen is required for protection against premature ageing from UVA rays which penetrate much deeper into the skin and contribute to hyperpigmentation, lines, wrinkles and skin laxity. Also Black people with mixed ethnic heritage with one parent or even grandparent with Caucasian skin will inherit the Caucasian propensity to sun sensitivity.

Doesn’t sunscreen makes you look like a ghost?

Many years ago, this was true as sunscreen formulations applied poorly on black skin leaving the user with a white/purplish hue. Sunscreens are now more technologically advanced and in more sophisticated formulas with no tell tale sign

Shontay Lundy – CEO and Founder of Black Girl Sunscreen

How can consumers make sure their skin is protected from the sun?

Sunscreen and repeated applications throughout the day when exposed to the sun ensures extra protection from the harmful rays of the sun. With Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30, we recommend reapplication after 80 minutes of activity – swimming, exercising (if outdoors), and sweating.

Where does Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 come in?

Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 offers our consumers something they have not received before – a sunscreen with a thoughtful formula catered to Black and Asian skin. This product provides a broad-spectrum sunscreen, meaning it provides both UVA and UVB protection.

Some people complain about some sun creams leaving a residue or being too sticky - how does Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 avoid that?

There are two types of sunscreen – mineral and synthetic. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide or Titanium dioxide, which typically leave the white cast. Black Girl Sunscreen is a non-toxic synthetic sunscreen that does not use zinc or titanium dioxide.

Abi Cleeve, founder of Ultrasun

If I have a deeper skin tone, I can’t damage my skin

It may seem deceptive, but ALL skin types become less and less able to protect themselves the more time you spend out of the sun. A sunny day arrives - yes, even UK sun - and it really can impact on the condition of the skin and incremental damage. Similarly, travelling somewhere hot from a colder climate makes skin very sun sensitive.  Whilst you'll need a lower protection choice than fairer skin, still aim for an SPF of 20 and importantly check for a good level of UVA protection.  EU standards are set currently at a 33% minimum UVA filter in sun protection products.

Sun cream is just for holidays

No, it’s skincare 101 -all year round. Sun protection is now very much part of a daily skincare routine and anyone serious about their skincare will know that UVA & UVB protection is a daily core component.  No serum or moisturisers can reverse UV damage. A good UV protection product now multi-tasks, delivering a lightweight under makeup formula that often rivals and replaces BB and CC creams, by also giving enhanced anti-ageing, anti-pollution, skin radiance and smoothing benefits, alongside the crucial high SPF and UVA filter as standard.  

Well now we have tackled the myths around sun care for Black and Asian skin, hopefully you can do everything you can to protect yourself from the sun while basking in it.