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The Best Sunscreens for Deep Skin Tones
The must-have SPF for your daily skincare routine—all the protection with none of the dreaded white cast.
The season of warm weather is swiftly approaching, which inevitably means that many of us will find ourselves basking in the hot sun, enjoying long walks outdoors, and daydreaming by the pool. Since we've had to remain indoors for the majority of this past year, taking some time to stop and smell the roses seems more appealing than ever.
While we indulge in the joy of these summertime activities, we should also remember to incorporate sunscreen into our daily skincare routines— and this fundamental rule applies to people of all skin tones. The results from unprotected UV exposure are simply not worth it. Such consequences include hyper pigmentation, loss of elasticity, and even skin cancer. “If you are going to leave the house, you should apply sunscreen; ultraviolet light is omnipresent, even on overcast days, so it’s important to protect the skin from the sun.” says board certified dermatologist, Dr. Corey L. Hartman
And even if you spend most of your time indoors, forming the habit of applying sunscreen on a daily basis is key. “Make sure you lather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen, especially if you are positioned next to a window— windows don’t filter all UV light.”
That said, finding the perfect sunscreen is easier said than done, particularly for people with darker skin tones. Many sunscreens tend to give off a white cast, and some products can even make your complexion look greasy. So, what are the most effective sunscreens that will complement medium to dark shades? Below you’ll find a range of formulas; from dermatologist-approved products to fan favorites, and even a few of my personal picks. Let’s get to slathering!
Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen
Tatcha’s Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen filters UV rays while promoting healthy and nourished skin. The unique blend of silk extract, Japanese wild rose, and loquat leaf works to soften skin’s texture, tighten pores, and soothe irritation.
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
As Unseen Sunscreen melts into skin, it instantly mattifies for a non-oily feel. And as you can probably tell by the title, it’s invisible, so there’s absolutely no need to worry about that irritating white cast.
Eleven by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
Eleven by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
Eleven by Venus Williams is truly a game-changer. This ultra-hydrating product is packaged in eco-friendly materials, and it's guaranteed to leave your skin feeling exceptionally moisturized.
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Cream SPF 50+ Face Sunscreen
Shiseido’s Ultimate Sun Protector Cream contains a protective veil that is activated by heat and water exposure, making it the perfect sunscreen for your next beach trip.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen for Face & Body SPF 100
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen for Face & Body SPF 100
La Roche Posay's Melt-In Milk Sunscreen absorbs into skin and creates a flawless, cast-free finish. This calming cream is also ideal for sensitive skin, especially for those who are prone to hyperpigmentation or sunburn.
Murad Invisiblur Perfecting Shield Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Invisiblur Perfecting Shield is a sunscreen and primer in one — ideal for layering underneath a full face of makeup. Go ahead and put on the concealer and contour, this SPF treatment will prime your skin for up to 12 hours.
Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30
Struggling with hyperpigmentation as a result of sun damage? Prisma Protect's mixture of green tea and sage extract helps to solve discoloration by calming irritated skin and evening out skin tone.
ISDIN's Eryfotona Actinica is a lightweight emulsion that delivers moisture and mineral zinc oxide for a chemical-free, physical sunscreen that eliminates the possibility of allergy. This miracle in a bottle also contains DNA repair enzymes, which aid in the correction of sun damaged skin.
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