beauty
You can finally stop looking like Casper the Friendly Ghost
By Chelsea Candelario
•
Published Feb 16, 2024
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Victoria Parrotta/PureWow
We can’t emphasize enough how important sunscreen is in your skincare routine. And while many promise to protect your skin from harsh UV rays, they’re not always catered to all skin tones. Whether you prefer a chemical or mineral sunscreen, there are some formulas that may leave a chalky finish behind. Luckily, we found the 20 best sunscreens for dark skin that will blend seamlessly with your complexion (no Casper the Friendly Ghost here).
Best Sunscreens for Dark Skin at a Glance
4
Best for Dry Skin
Urban Skin Rx SheerGlow Even Tone Daily Defense Mineral Moisturizer
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Meet the Experts
- Ivey Rogers is an aesthetician educator and community engagement manager for Urban Skin Rx. She has over two decades of experience in the beauty industry. Rogers attended the Aveda Arts & Science and received her esthetics license in 2019.
- Dr. Shuting Hu is a cosmetic chemist and founder of Acaderma, a clean beauty skincare brand. She has seven years of experience in the skincare industry. She was previously a director at SkinData Research & Innovation at the University of Hong Kong, where she studied biology and how natural ingredients effect the skin.
- Dr. Naana Boakye is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Bergen Dermatology in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of experience and has treated more than 18,000 patients. She has a medical degree from Temple University and a master's degree of public health from George Washington University. Dr. Boakye is also a member of the American Academy of Dermatology and Skin of Color Society.
- Bianca Edwards is a licensed esthetician, educator and melanin expert. She's also the founder of Beauty Done Right, a brand that offers luxury skincare tools to enhance your routine. Edwards has over 20 years of experience and specializes in treating skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea and hyperpigmentation, as well as treatments like microneedling, body contour and high-frequency services.
- Dr. Sam Awan is a board-certified dermatologist with U.S. Dermatology Partners in McKinney, Texas. He specializes in treating inflammatory skin disorders such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis and alopecia areata. He did his dermatology residency at the University of Connecticut and received his doctorate of medicine at the University of Illinois College of Medicine.
How We Chose the Best Sunscreens for Dark Skin at a Glance
We tapped our editors to share the best sunscreens they've used for their melanated skin. We also chatted with dermatologists who cater to skin of color and researched products that reviewers are currently loving right now. Whether you prefer a tinted serum like Ilia’s, a body sunscreen like Supergoop! or a formula specifically catered to Black and Brown skin (hello, Black Girl Sunscreen), check out our list below.
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Best Overall
1. Black Girl Sunscreen Sunscreen Lotion
What We Like
- SPF 30
- water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Black-owned
What We Don't Like
- may feel greasy for some skin types
Black Girl Sunscreen
This chemical sunscreen was created specifically for melanated skin. It’s formulated with natural ingredients (like jojoba oil, cacao oil and avocado oil) that protect and moisturize the skin. The crown jewel is definitely the finish, which one PureWow writer describes as so beautifully sheer that it makes a white cast nearly impossible. "It’s lightweight but not watery, and leaves no cast whatsoever. In fact, instead of an ashy appearance, Black Girl Sunscreen actually gives your skin a healthy-looking glow upon application. Who would’ve thought such a product existed?," they say.
Best for Face and Body
2. Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion
What We Like
- SPF 50
- water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- non-greasy formula
What We Don't Like
- pricey
- thick formula
Supergoop
This non-greasy formula is lightweight and colorless, so you don't have to worry about a white cast. Formulated with sunflower, rosemary and rice bran extracts, the lotion works to protect, condition and soften the skin while you're laying under the sun. It also absorbs quickly and has a fresh scent that's not-at-all sticky or tacky. As one editor previously shared, "If I had to pick one staple product in my skincare routine, it would have to be my SPF. Like many people in my community, I didn’t grow up using sunscreen. I would always hear the expression, “We’re Black, we don’t need sunscreen.” But that’s not true at all. Not only does sunscreen act as a protective barrier for my skin, but it stops premature aging. And to be honest, I want to age gracefully!”
Best Oil
3. Hawaiian Tropic Tanning Oil
What We Like
- SPF 25
- contains cocoa butter and aloe vera
- coconut fragrance
What We Don't Like
- finicky dispenser
Hawaiian Tropic
Here's why you should consider this sunscreen for dark skin, straight from our Sales & Deals editor, Destinee Scott: "I usethis sunscreen oil spray allyear round. I love that I can use it to slightly tan on the go (FYI, you won't really tan unless your under the sun for hours) and stay protected with SPF 25. But overall I'm obsessed with the glowy sheen it leaves on my skin. If you like using body oil to get a glow, I would highly recommend using this instead since you get sun protection, too! I put all my friends and family on it and they love it. And the coconut smell? Just a cherry on top!"
Best for Dry Skin
4. Urban Skin Rx SheerGlow Even Tone Daily Defense Mineral Moisturizer
What We Like
- SPF 30
- clean ingredients
What We Don't Like
- thick formula
Urban Skin Rx
Rogers appreciates sunscreens with nourishing formulas and this one from Urban Skin Rx fits the bill. Infused with safflower seed oil, grapefruit extract and bisbolo, this mineral-based sunscreen combats dryness, clogged pores and discoloration. Plus, there's zinc oxide to protect your skin against UVB and UVA rays. The aesthetician also notes that it has a sheer finish that absorbs nicely into melanated skin without leaving a noticeable cast.
Best Mineral Sunscreen
5. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen
What We Like
- SPF 60
- fragrance-free
- water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
What We Don't Like
- takes time to rub into skin
La Roche-Posay
This mineral-based sunscreen gets a stamp of approval from Dr. Hu. The oil-free formula has a velvety finish that hydrates and goes on smoothly without clogging pores or feeling heavy on the skin. As Dr. Hu shares, "This sunscreen offers high SPF protection and has a non-greasy texture. It’s also fast-absorbing and doesn't leave a white cast on darker skin."
Best Tinted Sunscreen
6. Kinlo Golden Rays Sunscreen
What We Like
- available in three sheer shades
- derm-approved
- BIPOC-owned
What We Don't Like
- comes in small bottles
Kinlo
Dr. Boakye recommends this tinted sunscreen for darker skin tones because it protects against sun damage, blue light and harmful free radicals, while also brightening deeper complexions. Formulated with zinc oxide, niacinamide, green tea extract and vitamin E, the active blend also helps control shine, reduces the appearance of pores and offers a natural glow. "It's available in three different shades to prevent a white cast that is commonly seen on darker skin tones using other mineral-based sunscreens. It's also sweat-proof, water-resistant and reef-safe," she adds.
Best Spray
What We Like
- SPF 45
- great for sensitive skin
- pleasant scent
What We Don't Like
- not ideal for oily skin
Sun Bum
Edwards suggests trying this face mist that promises a nice glow for darker skin tones. The lightweight formula protects against the UV rays and incorporates witch hazel to soothe sensitive skin. It's also a great for spritzing on-the-go—plus, it leaves a subtle banana scent that Edwards describes as "yummy."
Best for Acne-Prone Skin
8. EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen
What We Like
- SPF 46
- fragrance-free
- cruelty-free
What We Don't Like
- pricey
EltaMD
With over 33,000 5-star reviews, we can see why people are constantly adding this sunscreen to their carts. The gentle formula has a broad-spectrum SPF 46 and is loved by editors, reviewers and dermatologists alike. "The UV Clear stands out for its inclusion of niacinamide and lactic acid. The lactic acid serves as a gentle exfoliant and the niacinamide makes this an excellent choice for acne-prone skin. Both physical (zinc oxide) and chemical (octinoxate) filters play a role, and iron oxides protect from visible light," says Dr. Awan.
Best Gel
9. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel
What We Like
- lightweight formula
- absorbs quickly
- fragrance-free
What We Don't Like
- small bottle
Isntree
This Korean beauty find is praised by many reviewers for its lightweight formula and Dr. Awan stands by it. "This is a personal favorite of mine. It has a number of brightening, moisturizing and anti-inflammatory ingredients including ceramides, centella, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. It also has a radiant finish that is best suited for dry skin and works very well under makeup," says Dr. Awan.
Best Drugstore
10. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen
What We Like
- SPF 50
- non-greasy formula
- water resistant for up to 80 minutes
What We Don't Like
- not great for sensitive skin
Neutrogena
Who says you have to drop major $$$ to get a sunscreen that provides UVA/UVB protection, a clear finish and a boost of hydration? Thanks to Neutrogena’s signature Helioplex technology (aka the brand’s proprietary blend of chemical blockers that protect your skin), the gel-based formula blends easily onto the skin for under $20. "[I] use it as a face sunscreen [and it] rubs in clear. [It's] fantastic for people of color, who don't want that chalky, grey undertone," says one Amazon reviewer.
Best Moisturizer
11. Melē Dew The Most Sheer Moisturizer
What We Like
- SPF 30
- offers blue light protection
- Black-owned
What We Don't Like
- not great for oily skin
Mele
We’re always down for a hybrid skincare product—especially one that’s developed by dermatologists of color. This moisturizer is infused with SPF 30 to protect and moisturize your skin, minus any white residue. And thanks to the formula (which features niacinamide and vitamin E), it delivers 24 hours of hydration to keep your skin soft and plump all day long. "I love how well it works with melanin rich skin! Other sunscreens can leave a white film on the skin, [but] “Dew The Most” didn't leave a film on my skin whatsoever. It blended in with my skin easily and left no white cast. Not only was it lightweight but it was also hydrating! My skin felt so smooth after application. I didn't feel like I was wearing sunscreen at all," shares one Walmart shopper.
Best Makeup with SPF
12. Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint
What We Like
- SPF 40
- contains clean ingredients
- 30 shades
What We Don't Like
- might feel greasy for some skin types
Ilia
Can you imagine having skincare, makeup and sun protection rolled into one product? Well, that’s exactly what you get with Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint. This triple threat offers a light, dewy coverage while also protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays, blue light and more. Rich with hyaluronic acid, squalane and niacinamide, it also hydrates and supports your skin, while blending seamlessly with your complexion. It's editor-approved, but also is a huge hit with reviewers. As one shopper shares, "I was hopeful that I could match my dark/reddish undertones skin online, and I was right! Ilia does a good job of representing the different shades and undertones in dark skin, so my serum was a perfect match when it arrived. I live in humid South Florida, so the added SPF is a bonus."
Best for Hyperpigmentation
13. Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer
What We Like
- SPF 30
- contains clean ingredients
- Black-owned
What We Don't Like
- strong scent
Fenty Skin
This two-in-one is designed to soothe, hydrate and protect your skin. The lightweight blend features kalahari melon extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and aloe to even out skin tone and reduce the look of dark spots and scars, so you can say bye-bye to hyperpigmentation. The moisturizer also contains SPF 30 to protect your skin from future sun damage. "There is no white cast, and it only feels greasy for like 10 minutes, but then you are just glowing. It gives a beautiful dewy look and keeps your face moisturized for so long. I have dry skin and fully did not expect it to be this hydrating and softening," says a Sephora shopper.
Best Body Sunscreen
14. Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion
What We Like
- SPF 50
- water resistant for 80 minutes
What We Don't Like
- may feel greasy for some skin types
Shiseido
This sun lotion is ready to protect you through it all—whether you’re tanning, swimming or doing a HIIT workout outdoors. It’s crafted with a SynchroShield technology, which creates an invisible layer of protection due to heat and water. The formula is also packed with green tea extract and rose apple leaf extract that helps prevent any UV damage. Shoppers say it goes on clear, spreads evenly and maintains moisture all day long. "This sunscreen is amazing. I like it because there is no white cast, it doesn't break me out, and leaves my skin feeling really moisturized and dewy. This is a more fluid sunscreen, and if you are worried about it being oily... I personally do not find it to be greasy at all. I love the way it sits under makeup too. Overall 10/10," shares one Sephora customer.
Dr. Hu also recommendsthis SPF-infusedserumwithactive ingredients (like sesame seed extract, peony and summer snowflake)that furtherprotect skin against harsh sun rays, blue light and pollution.The serum also includes11 antioxidant-rich ingredientsthat can help reducethe appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Best Sunscreen Drops
16. COOLA Sun Silk Drops Sunscreen
What We Like
- SPF 30
- contains hyaluronic acid
- lightweight formula
What We Don't Like
- not ideal for oily skin
COOLA
If lotions feel too thick on your skin, consider adding sunscreen drops to your routine. This one by COOLA features hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture, while the neroli flower extract works to calm and hydrate the skin. It also has SPF 30 to protect against infrared rays, blue light and pollution. As one customer raves, "Absolutely worth it. Wear alone or underneath makeup. [It's] a staple for a woman living in the south. As a black woman, I can attest that this truly goes on invisible!!! Yes, yes, yes the protection I’ve been needing and blue light [protection]. Amazing formula!"
Most Lightweight
17. Glossier Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen
What We Like
- SPF 35
- has a vegan formula
What We Don't Like
- small bottle
Glossier
If a product labels itself as “the sunscreen for people who hate wearing sunscreen,”we're going to have high hopes for it. Luckily, it delivers.Withhydrating ingredients like vitamin E, aloe leaf extract and H2O,there'snochanceofgettingdry patches or an uneven application. Plus, the water-gel texture feels like a lightweight and refreshing serum when you put it on. "I decided I need to add a sunscreen into my skincare routine and I tried this on a recommendation. It's perfect! It doesn't feel heavy or greasy, leaves no white cast (extremely important for darker folks like me!) and [overall] does its job," shares one Sephora reviewer.
Best 3-in-1
18. Live Tinted Hueguard 3-in-1 Broad Spectrum Mineral Primer
What We Like
- SPF 30
- clean formula
- AAPI-owned
What We Don't Like
- not great for sensitive skin
Live Tinted
This 3-in-1 acts as a sunscreen, a moisturizer and a primer. Whether you wear it alone or under makeup, it will give you a natural glow (and no awful white cast). According to reviewers, the mineral-based formula feels lightweight and melts onto dark skin with ease. "I've tried so many sunscreens but [was] always disappointed at how tacky they felt or [the] white cast that looks awful on brown skin or if they felt and looked good, then they didn't have enough SPF protection. Hueguard is the first sunscreen that does all of that for me. Absolutely love it and highly recommend!" says one Ulta customer.
Best Serum
19. Eleven By Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum
What We Like
- SPF 30
- clean ingredients
- Black-owned
What We Don't Like
- finicky applicator
Eleven by Venus
Prepare to marvel at how smoothly this sunscreen glides onto your face without feeling sticky or greasy. Crafted with zinc oxide, prickly pear stem extract and safflower, it helps to hydrate, calm and protect skin against outside stressors. Give it a good shake, apply a few drops and enjoy the demi-matte finish. "I was in the market for a clean ingredient sunscreen and this is it! I love that my face stays matte all day, but feels so moisturized. It blends well with my moisturizer as well. It goes on nice and smooth and it doesn't leave a white cast on my melanated skin," says one Ulta customer.
Best for Combination Skin
20. Tula Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen
What We Like
- SPF 30
- non-greasy formula
What We Don't Like
- pricey
Tula
Whether it’s the sun, pollution or blue light, this daily sunscreen protects against all sorts of potential skin damage. The gentle blend of probiotic extracts, pineapple and papaya ensures no clogged pores or excessively greasy coverage. Instead, you’ll get smooth skin and a natural glow. "I've used many sunscreens in my life in India and the US and this is the only sunscreen matches to my daily skin with no white cast. In fact, it gives a great shiny glow with a concealer on top is my go-to option," shares one Sephora reviewer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much SPF is Best for Darker Complexions?
All the experts recommendusingSPF 30or higher foradequatesun protection, regardlessof your skin tone.There'sacommon misconception that those with darker skin don't need sunscreen or that their skin isn't affected by sun damage.But according toDr. Hu, that'snottrue. "Darker skin tones do have more natural protection from the sun because their skin contains more melanin, however, it doesn't eliminate all possibility of the risk of sun damage," she explains. "Without sunscreen application, [those with]dark skin tones are susceptible to sunburns, hyperpigmentation and photoaging. While the risks are lower due to the amount of melanin in their skin, they can still experience sun damage over time."
Is Mineral or Chemical Sunscreen Better for Dark Skin?
Dr. Awansays there'sbeauty in both options for dark skin. "Both are excellent at protecting against UV radiation.[Personally],I use both chemical and mineral sunscreens, but because people with dark skin tones are more prone to pigmentation, I’m a big fan of tinted mineral sunscreens with iron oxides as it gives more protection against visible light." He adds, "The best sunscreen is going to be the one that you use regularly and liberally," meaning find one you actually enjoy using (or at least don't mind putting on your skin).
Often,chemical sunscreensarefavored for having no white cast, but Dr. Awan says you shouldn'tdismissmineral sunscreenstoo quickly."Newerphysical sunscreens have greatly improved on theirblending issues," he assures.Once you findthe sunscreenthat best matchesyour skintype—regardlessof whether it is chemicalor physical—make sure to use the appropriate amount,which isabouthalf a teaspoon'sworth to cover the face and neck."
How to Find the Best Sunscreen for Dark Skin
The experts share four key things to look for when shopping the best sunscreens for dark skin.
- SPF Factor: Dr. Boakye says finding the right amount of protection is crucial for preventing damage and other skincare concerns (i.e., hyperpigmentation, age spots and wrinkles). Look for SPF 30 or higher.
- Skincare Ingredients: Dr. Boakye recommends finding sunscreens that are rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and E, niacinamide, aloe vera and tumeric.
- Texture and Finish: Aside from protecting against the sun, the experts say key features likehavingno white cast,alightweight formula and absorbing easilyare important.As Rogersexplains, "You should enjoy putting it on, so that you want to wear it daily."
- Sunscreen Type: For this list, we included sunscreensticks, sprays, lotions and everything in between,so you can hopefully find something that worksfor your skin type. This canhelpnarrow down your search, though Edwardssays thathaving a varietyof optionsis a good thing. "Having multiple forms of sunscreen is always great. Spray bottles and large tubes are generally meant for the body, while sunscreen for the facegenerallycomes inmuch smaller bottles.Also, having a variety of sticksandsprays on handis ideal becausethey'regreat for reapplyingquickly to the face, neck, earsandbacks of handswhenyou're on-the-go," she explains. Simply put, the more, the merrier when it comes to protecting your skin.
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Chelsea Candelario
Beauty and Cultures Editor
- Writes trend stories, product reviews and how-tos across beauty, cultures, fashion and entertainment
- Over 5 years of experience as a Beauty Editor
- Studied journalism with a minor in creative writing at SUNY New Paltz
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