You should wear sunscreen even if you have darker skin. Here’s why
- In spring 2025, Consumer Reports evaluated over 100 sunscreens, publishing their yearly rankings based on effectiveness in sun protection.
- The tests found major differences among sunscreens, with some products not matching their listed SPF, highlighting gaps in UV protection.
- Experts like Dr. Jenna Lester and Dr. Oyetewa Asempa emphasize that everyone, including people with darker skin, needs daily sunscreen to prevent sunburn, dark spots, and skin cancer.
- Dermatologists advise using a broad-spectrum sunscreen featuring a minimum SPF of 30, applying it generously, and reapplying every two hours or after sweating to provide essential protection beyond what natural melanin offers.
- These findings imply that for effective sun safety, consumers should choose high-quality sunscreens and maintain proper application habits year-round to reduce skin damage risks.
16 Articles
16 Articles
Dark-skinned people need sunscreen
NEW YORK — People with darker skin still need to wear sunscreen — for more reasons than one. Too much ultraviolet exposure from the sun can lead to sunburn, dark spots and wrinkles, and increased risk of skin cancer. The melanin in darker skin offers some extra protection from the sun, but dermatologists say that isn't enough on its own. "Everyone needs sunscreen. But the reasons that one might be reaching for sunscreen may differ depending on y…
Why you may not want to use last summer's sunscreen
(NEXSTAR) — Summer is nearly here, and forecasters are already predicting it'll be a hot one. You may already be taking advantage of early-season heat, breaking out the shorts and sunscreen from last year. While the shorts may still fit, you may want to think twice about using last summer's sunscreen. Sunscreen is, of course, created with the help of ingredients that do wane in effectiveness over time. Before applying any sunscreen you find in s…

You should wear sunscreen even if you have darker skin. Here's why
Skin experts say people of color still need to wear sunscreen. The melanin in darker skin offers some extra protection from the sun, but dermatologists say that isn’t enough on its own.
Local health department reminds you the importance of sunscreen during summer months
VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) -- With summer nearing, the Vigo County Health Department wants to remind the community the importance of taking care of your skin, especially during the summer months. UV radiation is generally the strongest during the spring and summer months, specifically between April and August. As you spend more time outside, it is important to protect your eyes and skin from UV radiation. For example, using sunscreen and reap…
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