It’s that time of year again when the sun decides to stay out for longer and sunscreen is a prerequisite to all skincare routines. Over the years as I’ve gotten more invested in the welfare of my skin, I’ve taken a keen interest in ways to protect my skin from the elements and to ensure I’m treating it as well as possible. It’s probably no surprise then that because sunscreen is an important part of my skincare regimen, I’m very particular about the kind I put on my face, especially as a Black woman – because yes that also plays a massive part in sunscreen in the first place. So, here are three things I look for in a sunscreen.
Discolouration
When it comes to sunscreen, finding one that won’t change the colour of my skin is at the very top of my list. Like many dark-skinned women, I’ve used many sunscreens in the past that have turned me blue, purple, white and ashy grey. I’m currently using the Nivea Sun UV Face Q10 Anti-Age & Anti-Pigments sunscreen and omg where has it been my whole life? This sunscreen rubs in effortless and does not; I repeat, DOES NOT make me a different colour – and I’m using SPF50. I love that it leaves my skin a nice glossy, hydrated and luscious brown and that I don’t have to be paranoid that I look weird when that’s the only thing on my face.
High SPF Factor
Okay, so this point is definitely me being extra, but who said there was anything wrong with that? Even though the myth that Black people don’t need sunscreen still persists, let alone sunscreen with a high SPF, I’m not willing to risk anything. I’ll happily slather on SPF 50 and personally won’t wear anything below 30 (I told you I was a bit extra). That said, even if you don’t like wearing a high SPF, you should always still wear sunscreen with at least SPF15. I found a really cool chart detailing the SPF you need depending on your skin tone. Interestingly enough, studies have shown that people aren’t applying nearly as much sunscreen as they should. So despite maybe wearing a high factor, like 50, some people are only receiving the benefits of a sunscreen with 15.
Hydrating And Non Sticky
Black or white, we’ve all come across those sunscreens that have been sticky, drying and made us want a long hot shower seconds after application. This last requirement is most important, if like me, you wear makeup on top of your sunscreen. There is really nothing worse than applying foundation when your base is not smooth or even. This last requirement is also important if you’re on the beach and don’t want to end up looking like a you’ve been baked and covered in breadcrumbs.
My favourite sunscreens
Nivea have proved themselves to be consistent, reliable and trustworthy when it comes to sunscreen for dark skin. So even if I sometimes wander off to another brand, I always come back to their sunscreen. Like I mentioned above, I love their UV Face Q10 Anti-Age & Anti-Pigments sunscreen, and I’m also a big fan of their Protect & Moisture Moisturising Sun Spray (SPF50 of course lol) which I’ve written about a lot on here in the past.
alice
xo
