Let’s clear this up once and for all: Black people need sunscreen. Every. Single. Day.

Melanin is powerful, yes—it offers some natural protection against UV rays. But it’s not bulletproof. Hyperpigmentation, premature aging, and skin cancer can all affect deeper skin tones, and they often go undiagnosed until it’s too late.

The problem? Most sunscreens weren’t made for us. Chalky casts, dry patches, weird gray tones—many SPF formulas either don’t show up right or feel downright disrespectful to darker skin.

But the industry is finally catching up. With better ingredients, Black-owned formulas, and sheer finishes, there's now an SPF for every shade of brown. Whether you’re deep chocolate, golden brown, red-undertoned, or rich espresso—there’s protection that won’t make you ashy.

• Hyperpigmentation: One of the biggest skin concerns for Black and brown people—and UV exposure makes it worse.
• Inflammation & Acne Scarring: Healing skin needs protection to fade properly. No SPF = longer healing time and darker scars.
• Skin Cancer: Yes, it’s less common in Black folks—but when it is diagnosed, it’s often at a later, more dangerous stage.

Bottom line: if you care about your skin, you wear sunscreen.

• Broad Spectrum – Protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
• SPF 30 or Higher – That’s the minimum recommended for daily wear.
• No White Cast – Look for formulas labeled “sheer,” “clear,” or “invisible.”
• Hydrating Base – Melanin-rich skin can get dry or ashy, especially when using chemical actives.

Bonus if it includes ingredients like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid, which help keep skin even and plump.

1. Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 & 45

For: All shades, all glow levels
Created specifically for darker skin, this cult-favorite formula is hydrating, sheer, and doubles as a primer under makeup.

2. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

For: Sensitive, acne-prone, or post-procedure skin
Loved by dermatologists (especially for melanin-rich skin), this lightweight formula uses niacinamide and zinc oxide with no cast and no irritation.

3. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

For: Oily or combo skin types
A clear gel that applies like a primer. No scent, no grease, no chalk. Great under makeup and won’t slide off in the heat.

4. Kinlò Golden Rays SPF 50+

For: Deep skin tones that need moisture + high protection
Founded by Naomi Osaka, this Black-owned brand offers mineral sunscreen that melts into brown skin with no flashback.

5. Bolden Brightening Moisturizer SPF 30

For: Everyday hydration + SPF
Lightweight and deeply moisturizing, it evens skin tone while offering protection—great for dry or textured skin.

6. Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+

For: On-the-go reapplication
A clear stick that glides on over makeup or bare skin. Great for touchups during hot, humid days. No mess, no mirror needed.

7. Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense SPF 60+

For: Budget-friendly, fragrance-free coverage
This drugstore gem is broad spectrum, lightweight, and made with antioxidants to protect against pollution, too.

UV rays still reach your skin when it’s overcast. And if you’re using acids, retinol, or treating hyperpigmentation? You especially need protection—even indoors near windows.

• Morning: After moisturizer, before makeup.
• Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors.
• Use a nickel-sized amount for your face alone. Don’t forget your neck, ears, and hands!

You don’t need to settle for sunscreen that makes you look ghostly, greasy, or gray. You deserve protection that blends in, boosts your glow, and respects your skin tone.

So go ahead—get that melanin moisturized, protected, and poppin’.
SPF isn’t optional—it’s your skin’s ride-or-die.