Siziba Thando
Health and environment reporter
As summer approaches, many people are stocking up on swimwear, hats, and sunglasses to protect themselves from the sun. But one critical item is often overlooked, especially among people with darker skin tones: sunscreen.
A common misconception is that Black people do not need sunscreen because melanin provides natural protection against the sun’s harmful rays. While it’s true that melanin offers some defense against UV damage, it does not make darker skin immune to sunburn, skin cancer, or premature aging.
Dermatologists and health experts are urging everyone—regardless of skin tone—to make sunscreen a non-negotiable part of their summer routine.
Kelly Dube a beauty therapist emphasizes: “No one is exempt from sun damage. Applying sunscreen daily—even when indoors—is the easiest way to protect your skin’s health and beauty.”
Why Sunscreen is Necessary for Darker Skin
- Skin Cancer Risk is Real
· While less common, Black people can and do develop skin cancer, often at more advanced stages due to late detection.
· Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), a deadly form of skin cancer, is more frequently found in people of colour and often appears on palms, soles, and under nails. - Hyperpigmentation & Uneven Skin Tone
· Sun exposure worsens dark spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which are common concerns for people with darker skin.
· Sunscreen helps maintain an even complexion by preventing UV-induced discoloration. - Premature Aging
· UV rays break down collagen, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and fine lines—yes, even on darker skin.
· Regular sunscreen use keeps skin looking youthful.
Dispelling the Myths
“Black don’t crack, so I don’t need sunscreen.”Fact: While melanin delays visible aging, unprotected sun exposure still causes damage over time.
“I never burn, so I’m safe.” Fact: Sun damage isn’t always visible immediately. Long-term exposure without protection increases cancer risk.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Darker Skin
· Mineral vs. Chemical: Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) are less likely to leave a white cast.
· SPF 30 or Higher: Even on cloudy days, UV rays penetrate.
· Broad-Spectrum: Protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
This summer, let’s break the myth and embrace sunscreen as a vital step in self-care—for every skin tone.
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