Living with a darker skin tone is very much like having a superpower. Thanks to the presence of melanin, people with darker skin have some protection against sun rays, which can be harmful to the skin.
However, even Superman needs some shielding against kryptonite. Despite having a form of built-in sunblock, dark skin tones still require defence against one of the brightest stars in the solar system. Sunscreen does a great job at this, but not just any sunscreen will do.
For acne, sunscreen is very important because many acne medications make one’s skin sensitive to sunburn,” said Dr Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital.
“The right sunscreen can give a mattifying effect and protect the skin without worsening breakouts."
In this article we enlist some of the best sunscreens for acne and dark
skin that pharmacy owners should offer in their stores. These are all dermatological tested and approved.
Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen SPF 55
Neutrogena says its lightweight Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen was specifically created for those with acne-prone skin in mind. The sunscreen features the active ingredient avobenzone, which Zeichner described as an
"organic sunscreen filter that is extremely effective in providing broad-spectrum UV protection."
It comes in SPF 30, 50 and 55 and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, according to the brand.
Dr Patricia Wexler, a board-certified dermatologist at Wexler Dermatology in New York City, recommended this sunscreen from EltaMD. It’s designed for those with sensitive and acne-prone skin, as well as those who have rosacea and dark spots, the brand says. Its mineral-based formula includes zinc oxide, which Zeichner said is
“a mineral UV blocker that also has a soothing effect on the skin.”
It also contains niacinamide for hydration.
SPF mineral powder is a helpful option for those with oily and acne-prone skin, said Dr Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist.
"It absorbs excess oil so it can serve a dual purpose as a finishing powder, actually extending the life of makeup and providing sun protection,” she said.
Brush on Block’s mineral powder sunscreen is available as a translucent powder or in a Touch of Tan shade. It provides SPF 30 protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, the brand says. The accompanying brush has a twist-open feature that helps ensure powder is only released when you want to use it. The brush is also refillable — when it runs out of powder, users can purchase refills online.
This SPF 60 dry touch sunscreen is quickly absorbed by the skin and doesn't leave behind a greasy finish, according to the brand. And it comes recommended by Wexler:
"This sunscreen keeps skin dry, even in heat and humidity, making it great for oily, acne-prone skin,” she said.
The sunblock is made with perlite and silica, two lightweight powders that the brand says helps absorb excess oil from skin and reduce shine. La Roche-Posay says its sunscreen is suitable for sensitive skin and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Wexler said this mineral sunscreen is a
“very thin liquid,”
which gives it a lightweight feel and makes it a particularly good option for those with sensitive or acne–prone skin to use daily. Neutrogena says the sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, and it contains non-comedogenic ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Dr Robyn Gmyrek, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City, said that those with acne-prone skin can benefit from wearing sunscreen designed for sports even if they’re not doing something active — sport sunscreen is usually more alcohol-based, which means it’s also typically less greasy. Neutrogena’s SPF 70 Sport Face Sunscreen, for example, contains benzyl alcohol. It’s water-resistant up to 80 minutes, according to the brand.
However, to accommodate those with dark skin, pharmacies can offer the following:
This tinted sunscreen provides an instant, glowy lift to the skin without compromising on sun protection. This CeraVe option is particularly recommended by reviewers for its nongreasy feel and hydration. It achieves this by using ceramides (fatty acids that restore the skin’s protective barrier).
For those who are dark skinned and struggle with hyperpigmentation, pharmacies can offer Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor sunscreen. This product works to protect the skin without causing any worries about a white cast marking one’s skin.
It contains niacinamide, which can help manage hyperpigmentation. Also present is hyaluronic acid, which has hydrating properties, combined with aloe to help soothe the skin.
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