What Is the Best Sunscreen for African Americans?
According to Women’s Health magazine, good sunscreen choices for African-American skin include La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid and CeraVe Sunscreen with Invisible Zinc. Black Doctor recommends Coppertone Kids Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion, BabyGanics Cover Up Baby Sunscreen and Purple Prairie Botanicals SunStuff Mineral Lotion.
Despite myths to the contrary, dark skin is susceptible to skin cancer from sun exposure. African-American skin has a natural SPF factor of approximately 13.4. While this is better than the average 3.4 SPF factor afforded by white skin, dermatologists recommend wearing a minimum of SPF 30 year-round. Sunscreens have a tendency to look chalky or gray on dark skin, so African Americans should check several options against their skin before making a purchase.
