The sun doesn’t discriminate, and neither should your skincare. Black skin needs sunscreen, too.
There’s a long-standing myth that melanin-rich skin doesn’t need sunscreen. You’ve probably heard it or even believed it at some point. We say, “Black don’t crack.” While our beautiful, brown skin is more protected from UV radiation than lighter skin, the truth is — melanin doesn’t equate to immunity.
As a beauty editor, I’ve seen far too many Black women consider sunscreen as optional rather than essential. It’s often seen as a product reserved for holidays, heatwaves, or people with lighter complexions. That couldn’t be further from the truth. As Skin Cancer Awareness Month runs out, and it’s time we debunk the myths, highlight the science, and make SPF a staple in every Black woman’s routine.
Statistics show that Black people are more likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer at later stages, leading to lower survival rates. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the 5-year melanoma survival rate for Black patients in the US is only 70%, compared to 94% for white patients. In Nigeria, according to the 2020 World Health Organisation data, skin cancer deaths reached 1,933. This ranks Nigeria number 62 in the world. In most cases, it isn’t just about genetics but also late detection, lack of awareness, and low SPF use.
For African women, especially, we’re dealing with rising temperatures, depleted ozone protection, and long days under tropical UV exposure. Add that to the growing interest in skincare and glow culture, SPF isn’t just important, it’s essential.
These are the real reasons sunscreen belongs to the front row of your beauty shelf, and is your thorough guide to using SPF.
Read also: Tinted sunscreens are the perfect option for Black women — and we’ve got recommendations!
Common causes of skin cancer in melanin-rich skin
While melanin provides a level of natural protection, estimated to be around SPF 13, it is not a shield against long-term sun damage or skin cancer. Melanin delays the signs of damage but doesn’t prevent them.
Black women, in particular, face a dangerous mix of challenges: lower perceived risk, delayed diagnoses, and a lack of public education around sun safety. Because sunburn may not show up as redness or peeling, it often goes unnoticed. This delayed detection contributes to Black patients being more likely to present with skin cancer at advanced stages, which drastically lowers survival rates.
The most common type of melanoma found in Black skin is acral lentiginous melanoma, which appears on the soles of the feet, palms, and under nails. Black women often overlook these areas during routine skin checks, which is why education, awareness, and prevention play crucial roles in protecting melanated skin from skin cancer.
Other common types of skin cancer among Black people are:
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
While UV radiation is the biggest culprit, it’s not the only one. Here are the key causes of skin cancer in Black skin:
Cumulative sun exposure over time, even without sunburn.
Skipping sunscreen due to misinformation.
Chronic inflammation or scarring (especially from untreated wounds or burns).
Exposure to toxic chemicals or unregulated bleaching creams.
Wearing sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days or indoors, reduces the risk of skin damage. Think of it as your daily defence layer against environmental factors.
SPF recommendations for Black women
For Black women in Nigeria and similar climates, dermatologists recommend using a minimum of SPF 30, but preferably SPF 50 for maximum protection. You don’t need a “white cast” to know it’s working. There are now multiple formulas developed for melanin-rich tones that are completely invisible, moisturising, and non-greasy.
Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin type, here are beauty editor-approved sunscreens that work effectively on darker skin:
Uncover Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ – Formulated in Africa for African skin, it blends easily and leaves no residue.
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 – Infused with jojoba and avocado oil — moisturising and designed for dark skin tones.
Children need SPF too
Our little ones deserve sun protection too. They’re not too young for SPF. While we remember to pack snacks, wipes, and water bottles when heading out, we should never skip SPF. A child’s skin is more delicate than an adult’s, making it even more susceptible to sun damage. Though melanin offers some natural defence, it is still not enough to shield children from UV radiation, especially in hot climates.
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it measures how well a product protects your skin from UVB rays — the ones that cause sunburn. But you also want broad-spectrum protection, which shields you from UVA rays (the ones that age and penetrate deeper into the skin).
What parents should know
With skincare, it’s important to instil the habit of sun protection from an early age. With children’s skin being delicate, especially for those with melanin-rich skin, the right sunscreen is essential. But protecting young skin from harsh UV rays doesn’t have to be complicated.
We spoke to Dr. Jean-Louis Hoslauer, technical product manager at Mann & Schröder Cosmetics, to break it down. According to him, “It’s less about the individual ingredients and more about the SPF and UV-A level of the product. Look for water-resistant options that are gentle yet effective.”
While some parents gravitate toward mineral sunscreens, Dr. Hoslauer recommends chemical filters for children. “They absorb better, leave less white cast on the skin, and are easier to reapply.” He also advises avoiding sunscreens with microplastics, PEGs, acrylates, or harsh UV filters like Octocrylene, which may irritate the skin.
There’s also no problem with using sunscreen for children right from infancy. “Sun protection isn’t age-specific — UV damage can happen whether you’re a baby or an adult,” Dr. Hoslauer says.
To ensure proper protection, reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after sweating, swimming, or physical activity. “If your child is heading outdoors after school, that’s the time to reapply. Even friction from clothing can reduce effectiveness, so it’s important to stay consistent,” he explains.
Along with SPF, Dr. Hoslauer reminds parents that shade and protective clothing are equally important. Timing also matters: avoiding peak sun hours helps minimise risk.
SPF recommendation for children
Sanosan Sun Cream SPF: It is specially formulated to suit sensitive, melanin-rich skin without stinging the eyes or leaving a greasy finish. Sanosan’s formulation complies with the Hawaiian Reef Law, making it a safe and sustainable choice for families. It is a win for busy mums and active kids alike.
Read also: Let kids be kids: Cultural critique of beauty pressures on children
Your daily defence against skin cancer
Wear SPF daily — even indoors. UV rays penetrate windows.
Reapply sunscreen every 2–3 hours with clean hands when outdoors.
Wear protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and long sleeves during intense sun or heat.
Avoid being outside during peak sun hours (10am – 4pm) when possible.
Get regular skin checks — especially on hidden areas like under your feet, nails, and scalp.
Spread the word against skin cancer
Your melanin is a gift, but it does not exempt you from skin damage. The soft life we’re manifesting begins with intentional skincare — sunscreen included.So, whether you’re a skincare minimalist or a serum-layering queen, don’t leave SPF out of the routine. You’re not just preserving your glow, you’re protecting your beauty, health and future.
As we wrap up Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it’s time to debunk myths and put our skin first. SPF is not a seasonal product, it’s a daily declaration of care for your skin. Spread the word!
