For the longest, we’ve been taught to think that only Caucasian people are susceptible to skin cancer. And although melanin does provide some protection against the sun, we do get it. Skin cancer is less prevalent in non-white ethnic groups, but it’s typically discovered later, leading to a worse prognosis.
According to data compiled by SkinCancer.org, skin cancer represents 1 to 2 percent of all cancers in African Americans. People of color have higher percentages of acral lentiginous melanoma, melanoma of the palms, soles and nail beds, than Caucasians.
It’s important that Black people protect themselves from the dangers of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.
Here are 2 sun skincare products formulated especially for people of color. Products with an SPF of 30 are sufficient for darker skin.
- Black Girl Sun Screen: a vegan sun screen infused with natural ingredients including avocado, jojoba oil and carrot juice. It’s also a black-owned company.
- Buttah Skin: This tinted mineral sunscreen uses zinc oxide to help protect against sun exposure by sitting on the surface of the skin and reflecting UV rays. The difference?
It’s tinted, so it blends in seamlessly—no white cast, no gray tone. Founded by actor and model Dorion Renaud
