Dark skin needs sunscreen too

Yes, you still need sunscreen.

Melanin gives you some natural protection — about SPF 13 on the high end — but that’s not enough to prevent sun damage. Darker skin still burns, just less obviously, and the real risk is hyperpigmentation (dark spots, melasma) and skin cancer. Melanoma is less common in Black people, but when it does show up, it’s often diagnosed later and more deadly. So don’t skip it.

SPF 30 is the sweet spot for daily use. You don’t need SPF 100 for a commute — that’s marketing overkill. Just make sure it’s broad spectrum (UVA + UVB) and you reapply if you’re outside for hours. Also, many mineral sunscreens leave a white cast on dark skin, so look for chemical sunscreens or tinted mineral ones. Brands like Black Girl Sunscreen, Supergoop (Unseen), and EltaMD UV Clear work