THE DO's & DON'Ts FOR SUNSCREEN ON BLACK SKIN
It’s freezing, and you probably got a jumbo-size scarf a la Lenny Kravitz wrapped around your body. Layers are all good and well, but don’t just bundle up; also learn how to prepare your melanated skin for winter.
As a collective, far too many black people are unaware of the effects the sun has on their skin. When temperatures drop and winter comes knocking, it’s still important to keep your skin safe by applying the right sun protectant. Have a look at some of the tips that have protected my skin throughout winter.
When black starts to crack
You have a darker complexion, so naturally, the rules of the sun don’t apply to you? Think again, because your melanin-rich skin is just as likely to suffer from sun damage.
While people with darker skin may possess a natural shield that protects them from developing sun-induced wrinkles, the melanin-coated barrier isn’t as impenetrable as one may think. The natural protection that melanin provides isn’t enough to shield your skin from the consequences of the sun. These may include various types of melanoma, pigmentary disorders, and premature aging.
Yikes. Better run to your next drugstore – But which sunscreen should you even buy? Beware: Just because SPF 30 works for your non-melanated friends, it doesn’t mean your skin will also be safe from the risks of prolonged sun exposure. Scouering the web for the perfect sunscreen can be discouraging when every sun protectant you pick leaves an ashy-looking white residue or is simply too greasy. Finding the right product is tough – Especially when you’re not even sure which item is the best for your skin. If you happen to be on the hunt for the right sunscreen, ask yourself the following questions:
✦ ✦ ✦
Does my sunscreen provide enough moisture?
Besides leaving a sad white-cast many sunscreens have the tendency to produce a lot of grease on your skin. If you have oily or combination skin, look for sunscreens that offer hydration or shine control.
✦ ✦ ✦
Is mineral or chemical the better choice?
Since they sit on the surface of your skin in order to reflect harmful UV lights, mineral sunscreens are the type to leave a white cast on your skin. Opting for chemical sunscreens will allow the UV rays to be absorbed by the product’s components, such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octisalate. These organic filters absorb the harmful UV rays that come in contact with your skin and are very forgiving when it comes to looking like a scary SPF ghost..
✦ ✦ ✦
Which SPF do I need?
A sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is the ideal recommendation for all skin types. But hold on, here’s the trick on how to apply your sun protectant: In winter, try to reapply your sunscreen every two hours. Even if the sun seems weaker, UV rays can still cause harm to your skin.
5 sunscreens for people of colour
Still unsure which sunscreens you should be using this winter? This selection of sun protectants offer a variety of solutions for your daily needs. Whether this means opting for one with a lot of hydration or a sunscreen that provides you with a natural glow.
Which sunscreen will you be wearing during the frosty season?