Put your hand up if you’ve ever been told, “Black people can never be sunburned!” Well this is where it ends, it turns out that’s not entirely true. We’re breaking down the myths about SPF (Sun Protection Factor), the real risks of skipping the sunscreen step, and the best formulas that keep your melanin poppin.
So let’s get one thing straight: Black skin NEEDS SPF. Every. Single. Day. It doesn’t matter if it’s sunny, cloudy or snowing – UV rays don’t care. Though it would be great – melanin isn’t a magical force field; but it would be great if it was!
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin cancer accounts for 1-2% of all cancers in Black people. It might sound quite low, but this is the thing – when it does show up, it’s often found later rather than soon. This means that the delay can be dangerous. “There’s a false belief that melanin is more protective than it really is.” says Dr. Downie. Even the darkest skin only gives you the equivalent of SPF 13, which is the level of protection against UV (B) rays – and that’s not cutting it.
We asked Rebecca Elson, founder of RESkin and an expert in Black skin and problematic skin, about what we should be doing:
“Melanin is a natural defence, but it’s not enough. UV rays still trigger melanocytes to overreact, causing hyperpigmentation and could cause further damage to your skin.”
Read More: The Instagram face; what are we willing to do to achieve this? – Radiance
Hyperpigmentation. Texture. Breakouts. These aren’t just girl problems – they’re skin problems and there’s no such thing as “bad” skin. Michael Iwuji, a Business student, told us that he spends around £10 a month on skincare products:
“I’ve been freed from the simple skincare routine like just water and moisturiser. I actually look after my skin now, especially because of my melanin. I don’t want any risks.”
So what should we look for?
★ A broad spectrum (UVA + UVB)
★ SPF 30+ (preferably 50)
★ Antioxidants to fight free radicals
★ Chemical filters (no white cast, absorbs easily).
Rihanna, Founder of Fenty Beauty said it best, for Yahoo Entertainment:
“Whether it’s hot or grey, UV rays are always out. The biggest misconception is that Black people don’t need sunscreen. We do. Every day.”
Our recommendation? Mesoestetic Melan 130 Pigment Control. A Spanish company that is currently leading in the SPF world. Their SPF even protects you against blue light from your phone. And yes- that includes doom-scrolling at 2am.
Skin is emotional. It scars, reacts and tlls your story. Whether you’ve had chicken pox like me, battling with uni stress or falling into temptation of late-night snacks, just know – there’s no such thing as bad skin.
SPF is self-care. SPF is empowerment. Most importantly, SPF is for everyone.
#ProtectYourMelanin #NoFilterGlow #SkincareForAll
