Sunscreen: Essential for Everyone

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Sunscreen is crucial for protecting against sun damage, despite the common misconception that darker skin tones are naturally protected.

While melanin provides some protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays, it is not enough to prevent problems such as sunburn, hyperpigmentation, or skin cancer.

“But I have darker skin”

The melanin in darker skin provides partial protection against UV rays, but it's not a complete barrier. Overexposure to the sun can cause sunburn, dark spots, and wrinkles, and also increase the risk of skin cancer. 

For people with darker skin, using sunscreen helps prevent problems such as post-acne hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and uneven skin tone, which can worsen with sun exposure.

Skin Cancer Risks

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with approximately 5.4 million new cases of non-melanoma and 91,270 cases of melanoma each year, according to the American Cancer Society. 

Although fair-skinned people have a higher overall risk of skin cancer, Black and Hispanic people have lower survival rates for melanoma, the most dangerous form. Melanoma in darker skin occurs in areas less exposed to the sun, such as the hands and feet, so daily sun protection is an essential preventative measure. 

Consistent use can reduce these risks and protect against other sun-related problems.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

Establishing an effective daily routine starts with choosing the right product. Dermatologists recommend broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of at least 30 to protect against UVA and UVB rays. 

For darker skin tones, some prefer chemical-based sunscreens, as they absorb into the skin more seamlessly than mineral-based options, which can leave a white residue.

Tinted sunscreens, which include iron oxides, are especially beneficial for skin rich in melanin. They offer additional protection against visible light, a factor that contributes to hyperpigmentation. 

It's recommended to apply approximately two fingers' worth of sunscreen to your face and a generous amount to your body. Don't forget to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming!

What Else Can You Do?

In addition to sunscreen, there are other measures you can take to protect yourself from intense UV rays. Wearing sun-protective clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50 or higher can block UV rays. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses also offer excellent facial protection.

UV radiation can pass through windows, meaning sun exposure and associated damage can occur even indoors or in cars. That's why dermatologists recommend using sunscreen even on cloudy days and when you're near natural light indoors.

Some people are concerned about certain chemicals in sunscreens, but health authorities like the CDC and FDA continue to recommend their use as a safe and effective way to protect against harmful rays. Choosing reputable brands and making sure the products have an SPF of 30 or higher and are broad-spectrum is most beneficial.

By incorporating sunscreen into daily routines and pairing it with protective clothing and accessories, people can take care of their skin and enjoy the summer.

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Fountain: Associated Press