Black women, it's time to protect your beautiful melanin! You might think that because you have more melanin in your skin, you don't need to wear sunscreen. But that's just not true! In fact, there are a number of benefits of sunscreen for black skin that go way beyond protection. The relationship between melanin skin and sunscreen is actually a lot more complex than you might expect.

But if you're looking for a sunscreen for woman of color, you might wonder what is the best option for you. Check out our top 12 picks to try out. With our help, you can find the perfect sunscreen to protect your skin - and look good doing it!

So, what are you waiting for? Give your skin the protection it deserves with one of these great sunscreens!

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate and Affiliate for other Companies, we may earn a commission for purchases made through some of our links.

The Benefits of Sunscreen for Women of Color

As a woman of color, you may be wondering if sunscreen is really necessary. After all, we don’t usually burn as easily as our lighter-skinned counterparts. However, the sun can still cause damage to our skin, which is why it’s important to use sunscreen every day, no matter what your skin tone. Here are six benefits of using sunscreen for women of color:

  • It protects against UV damage

We all know that the sun’s UV rays can cause wrinkles and age spots. But did you know that they can also lead to more serious problems like skin cancer? By using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, you can help protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

  • It prevents hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a common problem for women of color. When our skin is exposed to the sun, it can cause dark spots and patches to form. Sunscreen can help prevent this by creating a barrier between your skin and the sun’s rays.

  • It keeps your skin hydrated

Sunscreen not only protects your skin from the sun, but it also helps keep it hydrated. If you’re looking for a product that will help your skin look its best, choose one that contains hyaluronic acid or other hydrating ingredients.

  • It reduces inflammation

Inflammation is the root cause of many skin problems, including acne. By using sunscreen, you can help reduce inflammation and keep your skin looking clear and healthy.

  • It protects your hair

Yes, the sun can damage your hair as well! If you’re concerned about keeping your locks healthy and strong, look for a sunscreen that contains UV-protective ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.

  • It’s good for your health

Not only is sunscreen good for your skin, but it’s also good for your overall health. Studies have shown that people who use sunscreen regularly have a lower risk of developing skin cancer. So not only will you be protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays, but you’ll also be doing something good for your health.

Now that you know all the benefits of sunscreen for dark skin, it’s time to find a product that’s right for you. Be sure to choose an SPF of 30 or higher and look for a sunscreen that contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to healthier, more protected skin.

1. Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 from Hero Cosmetics - Everyday SPF 30 for Acne-Prone Skin with Zinc Oxide, Green Surge, and Extremolytes, Fragrance Free and Reef Safe

Our Review

If you’re looking for a great everyday sunscreen that will help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, then look no further than Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 from Hero Cosmetics. This sunscreen is perfect for women of color who are looking for an everyday SPF that will help protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays. The zinc oxide in this sunscreen will help to reflect the sun’s rays away from your skin, while the green surge and extremolytes will help to keep your skin hydrated and protected. This sunscreen is also reef safe, so you can feel good about using it without harming the environment.

Pros

  • Perfect for acne-prone skin
  • Light-weight
  • Easy to apply
  • Good spreadability

Cons

None to mention

2. EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin and Acne-Prone Skin, Oil-Free Mineral-Based Sunscreen Lotion with Zinc Oxide

Acne-Prone Skin, Oil-Free Mineral-Based Sunscreen Lotion with Zinc Oxide

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Our Review

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen is the best sunscreen for you if you want the maximum amount of protection from the sun's harmful rays. This mineral-based sunscreen contains zinc oxide, which provides broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It’s also oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. And it’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types. So if you want a sunscreen that will give you great protection and won’t cause any skin problems, this is the one for you. Trust us, your skin will thank you!

Pros

  • Value for money
  • Great for acne-prone skin
  • Light-weight
  • Perfect for sensitive skin
  • Absorbs quickly

Cons

  • Expensive

3. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55 UVA/UVB Protection, Light, Water Resistant, Non-Comedogenic & Non-Greasy, Travel Size

Our Review

This sunscreen is ideal for women of color because it offers broad spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. It's also light and water resistant, making it perfect for summer days spent outdoors. Plus, it won't clog pores or leave a greasy residue, so your skin will feel smooth and soft all day long. And at just $11 for a travel-sized bottle, it's affordable enough to keep in your purse for on-the-go sun protection. So if you're looking for the best sunscreen for women of color, we highly recommend giving Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion a try! Trust us, your skin will thank you.

Pros

  • Perfect for sensitive skin
  • Light-weight
  • Moisturizes
  • Non-greasy

Cons

None to mention

4. Cotz Face SPF 40

Reef-friendly. Water Resistant. Weightless. Offers UVA/UVB Protection.

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Our Review

Cotz Face SPF 40 is a physical sunscreen that contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. It is fragrance-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic. Cotz Face SPF 40 provides broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Cotz Face is a great choice for women of color because it does not contain any chemical sunscreens that can cause irritation or skin sensitivity. The zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide excellent sun protection without causing any redness or staining on the skin. Cotz Face SPF 40 is also affordable and easy to find in drugstores and online.

Pros

  • Matte finish
  • Great for sensitive skin
  • Only a little is required
  • Perfect for oily skin
  • Goes on smoothly

Cons

None to mention

5. COOLA Organic Mineral Matte Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 Sunblock, Dermatologist Tested Skin Care for Daily Protection, Vegan and Gluten Free, Fragrance Free

Dermatologist Tested Skin Care for Daily Protection, Vegan and Gluten Free, Fragrance Free

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Our Review

COOLA Organic Mineral Matte Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 Sunblock is a great choice for those with sensitive skin. It's made with natural ingredients and is free of chemicals and fragrances. It's also vegan and gluten-free. This sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Dermatologist-tested and safe for daily use, COOLA Organic Mineral Matte Tinted Sunscreen is perfect for everyday protection. It goes on smoothly and evenly, leaving your skin with a matte finish. And it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so you can enjoy your time in the sun without worry.

Pros

  • Perfect for oily skin
  • Matte finish
  • Great for sensitive skin
  • Goes on smoothly

Cons

Expensive

6. CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30 | Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen With Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide | Sheer Tint for Healthy Glow

With Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide | Sheer Tint for Healthy Glow

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Our Review

There are so many sunscreens on the market, and it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. If you're looking for a sunscreen that will give you a healthy glow while protecting your skin from the sun, CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30 is a great option. This sunscreen contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. The sheer tint gives your skin a nice, natural-looking glow. And because it's from CeraVe, you know it's gentle enough for even sensitive skin. So if you're looking for a good sunscreen for Women of Color, CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30 is a great option.

Pros

  • Light-weight
  • Provides great coverage
  • Perfect for sensitive skin
  • Easy to apply
  • A little goes a long way

Cons

None to mention

7. Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Face Sunscreen Lotion With Broad Spectrum Spf 60 & Prebiotic Oat, Weightless & Refreshing Feel, Paraben-free, Oil-free, Oxybenzone-free

Spf 60 & Prebiotic Oat, Weightless & Refreshing Feel, Paraben-free, Oil-free, Oxybenzone-free

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Our Review

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Face Sunscreen Lotion is the best sunscreen for women of color. It is a light lotion that is easy to apply and absorbs quickly. It does not leave a greasy residue and feels refreshing on the skin. It contains broad spectrum SPF 60 sun protection and is water resistant for 80 minutes. This sunscreen is also paraben-free, oil-free, and oxybenzone-free, making it safe for all skin types. Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Face Sunscreen Lotion With Broad Spectrum is the best sunscreen for women of color because it provides superior sun protection without causing any irritation or skin problems.

Pros

  • Great for sensitive skin
  • Moisturizes
  • Absorbs quickly
  • Light-weight
  • Only a little is required

Cons

None to mention

8. RAIN OR SHINE Anti Aging Face Sunscreen SPF 50 for Clear Skin w/Green Tea, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin E Oil, Ginseng Extract, Licorice Root – SPF Moisturizer for Face, Fragrance Free

With w/Green Tea, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin E Oil, Ginseng Extract, Licorice Root – SPF Moisturizer for Face, Fragrance Free

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Our Review

The RAIN OR SHINE sunscreen is an SPF 50 face sunscreen that helps protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. This sunscreen is enriched with green tea, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin E oil to help nourish and moisturize your skin. Additionally, ginseng extract and licorice root help to brighten and even out your skin tone. The SPF 50 in this sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen is also fragrance-free, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Perfect for sensitive skin
  • Non-greasy
  • Ideal for dark skin tones
  • Moisturizes

Cons

None to mention

9. Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Tinted Face BB Cream SPF 50, 3 Ounce | Medium-Tan | Broad Spectrum | Water Resistant | Vegan | Antioxidant Rich

 Medium-Tan | Broad Spectrum | Water Resistant | Vegan | Antioxidant Rich

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Our Review

Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Tinted Face BB Cream SPF 50 is made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, two physical sunscreens that sit on top of the skin to reflect and scatter harmful UV rays. This tinted BB cream also contains antioxidant-rich botanicals like green tea extract, pomegranate extract, and chamomile flower extract to help protect the skin from environmental stressors. Plus, it's vegan and free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and artificial colors.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Perfect for sensitive skin
  • Reef-friendly
  • Perfect for darker skin
  • Great for oily skin

Cons

None to mention

10. Tinted Sunscreen for Face - SPF 30 Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick Sun Screen, Tinted Face Sunscreen Stick, Face Sunblock Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin, Travel Size Sunscreen, Zinc Sunscreen

Tinted Face Sunscreen Stick, Face Sunblock Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin, Travel Size Sunscreen, Zinc Sunscreen

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Our Review

Tinted sunscreen is a great way to protect your face from the sun while also getting a little bit of coverage. This SPF 30 sunscreen comes in a convenient stick form, making it easy to apply on the go. It's made with mineral sunscreen ingredients like zinc oxide, which provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Plus, it's hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, so it's ideal for those with sensitive skin. The tinted formula helps even out skin tone and can be used as a light foundation or primer. It comes in a travel-friendly size that's perfect for throwing in your bag when you're on the go.

Pros

  • Light-weight
  • Lasts throughout the day
  • Great coverage
  • Great for darker skin tones
  • Easy to apply

Cons

None to mention

11. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60, Oil Free Face Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin, Won't Cause Breakouts, Non-Greasy, Oxybenzone Free

Our Review

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen is a unique oil-free sunscreen that is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and combination skin. This facial sunscreen features a dry touch finish that won't clog pores or cause breakouts, and it is also oxybenzone free. Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60 provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays to help prevent sun damage and premature aging. It is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for activities like swimming or sweating.

Pros

  • Non-greasy
  • Perfect for acne-prone skin
  • Matte finish
  • Value for money

Cons

None to mention

12. Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Weightless Sunscreen Face Lotion, Broad-Spectrum Protection, SPF 30

Our Review

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Weightless Sunscreen is a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against the sun’s harmful rays. The lotion has a light, airy texture that feels weightless on the skin and leaves behind a non-greasy finish. The lotion is enriched with hydrating silk protein and sublime oil to help nourish and moisturize the skin. It also contains antioxidants to help protect the skin from free radical damage.

The lotion has a pleasant tropical scent that will make you feel like you’re on vacation even if you’re just spending a day at the beach. SPF 30 provides protection against 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. Apply liberally to the face and neck 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply as needed or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse immediately with water. Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Weightless Sunscreen Face Lotion is available in a 1.7-ounce tube.

Pros

  • Great for sensitive skin
  • Affordable
  • Light-weight
  • Pleasant fragrance
  • Leaves no white residue

Cons

None to mention

Buyers Guide:

Photo Credit andreswd / iStock

What to Look for When Buying Sunscreen for Dark Skin

When it comes to sunscreen, there are a few things that are important for everyone to look for, no matter their skin tone. However, there are also some things that are specific to women of color. Here is a buyer's guide to help you find the best sunscreen for your needs:

  • SPF: The first thing you'll want to look at is the SPF, or sun protection factor. This measures how well the sunscreen will protect your skin from UVB rays, which are the kind of rays that cause sunburns. For women of color, it's especially important to find sunscreen with a high SPF since we tend to be more susceptible to sun damage.
  • Broad-Spectrum: Another important thing to look for is that the sunscreen is broad-spectrum. This means that it will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are the kind of rays that cause aging and wrinkles, so it's important to find a sunscreen that will protect you from both kinds of damage.
  • Water-Resistant: If you're going to be spending time in the water, or if you tend to sweat a lot, then you'll want to make sure that your sunscreen is water-resistant. That way, you won't have to worry about it washing off or sweating away.
  • Non-Comedogenic: This one is especially important for women of color because we tend to have more sensitive skin. Non-comedogenic means that the sunscreen won't clog your pores, which can lead to breakouts.
  • Fragrance-Free: You'll also want to make sure that your sunscreen is fragrance-free. Fragrances can be irritating to the skin, and they're especially bad for people who have sensitive skin.

With these things in mind, you should be able to find a black girl sunscreen. Be sure to take your time and read the labels so that you know what you're getting. And don't forget to reapply often!

How to Use Suncreen for Women of Color

When it comes to sunscreen, there are a few things that women of color need to keep in mind.

First and foremost, you need to make sure that you are using sunscreen that is designed for your skin type. There are many different types of sunscreens on the market, so it is important to find one that will work well with your particular skin type.

Once you have found the right sunscreen for your skin, you need to apply it properly. Make sure that you cover all of the exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, chest, and hands. Be sure to use enough sunscreen so that your skin is completely covered.

Finally, remember to reapply your sunscreen every two hours or as needed. This will help to ensure that your skin is protected from the sun’s harmful rays.

By following these simple tips, you can help to ensure that your skin stays healthy and protected from the sun. Choose the right sunscreen for your skin type and be sure to apply it properly. Remember to reapply as needed so that your skin stays protected all day long.

Conclusion

That’s all for our roundup of the best sunscreen sets for women of color. We hope you found this information helpful and that it will help you find the perfect sunscreen set for your needs. Let us know in the comments below which set is your favorite and how you plan to protect yourself from the sun this summer!

Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen SPF 30 from Hero Cosmetics - Everyday SPF 30 for Acne-Prone Skin with Zinc Oxide, Green Surge, and Extremolytes, Fragrance Free and Reef Safe

EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Face Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin and Acne-Prone Skin, Oil-Free Mineral-Based Sunscreen Lotion with Zinc Oxide

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55 UVA/UVB Protection, Light, Water Resistant, Non-Comedogenic & Non-Greasy, Travel Size

Cotz Face SPF 40

COOLA Organic Mineral Matte Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 Sunblock, Dermatologist Tested Skin Care for Daily Protection, Vegan and Gluten Free, Fragrance Free

CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen with SPF 30 | Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen With Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide | Sheer Tint for Healthy Glow

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Face Sunscreen Lotion With Broad Spectrum Spf 60 & Prebiotic Oat, Weightless & Refreshing Feel, Paraben-free, Oil-free, Oxybenzone-free

RAIN OR SHINE Anti Aging Face Sunscreen SPF 50 for Clear Skin w/Green Tea, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin E Oil, Ginseng Extract, Licorice Root – SPF Moisturizer for Face, Fragrance Free

Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Tinted Face BB Cream SPF 50, 3 Ounce | Medium-Tan | Broad Spectrum | Water Resistant | Vegan | Antioxidant Rich

Tinted Sunscreen for Face - SPF 30 Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick Sun Screen, Tinted Face Sunscreen Stick, Face Sunblock Face Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin, Travel Size Sunscreen, Zinc Sunscreen

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60, Oil Free Face Sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin, Won't Cause Breakouts, Non-Greasy, Oxybenzone Free

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Weightless Sunscreen Face Lotion, Broad-Spectrum Protection, SPF 30