Applying sunscreen not only prevents your skin from burning and the pain that it brings, but it’s a proven fact that regular sunscreen use also slows the facial aging process by 80%. With a statistic like that, there’s no reason why you should not be using sunscreen every day.

 

However, just how much sunscreen should you apply to your face to reap the benefits and prevent skin damage?

 

The Right Sunscreen Formula for Your Skin

Along with knowing how much sunscreen to apply to your face, you should also ensure you use the best sunscreen formula for your skin.

 

There are two main types of sunscreen; chemical and mineral. Both provide broad spectrum protection from UVA rays (the aging rays) and UVB rays (the burning rays), but they do so in a different way.

 

Difference between Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen

The active chemical ingredients in chemical sunscreens absorb and penetrate into your skin. This allows the product to absorb and filter out the sun’s damaging UV rays.

 

Mineral sunscreens are more natural, using mineral-based ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide for protection. What’s more, Black Girl Sunscreen also uses sunscreen ingredients, like Avocado and Jojoba oils, to promote soft and supple skin.

 

Mineral sunscreens don’t absorb UV rays into your skin but instead reflect them away by working as a barrier between your skin and harmful UV rays.

 

Choosing Your Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

Choosing your SPF factor will depend on several things. Firstly, everyone has a different level of sensitivity to the sun. So if you burn easily, you should always opt for the highest SPF factor.

 

Secondly, you’ll need to use a higher SPF in the summer, but you can switch to a lower one in the colder seasons when the sun’s rays are not so intense.

 

We recommend using the daily SPF 30 facial sunscreen for everyday use as a general guideline. Then, if going on vacation, heading to the beach, or staying in direct sunlight for an extended period, opt for SPF 45 or SPF 50.

The Right Amount of Sunscreen to Apply

You can find various guidelines regarding how much sunscreen to apply to your face. These are three of our favorites.

 

Two Finger Rule

Many beauty bloggers and skincare enthusiasts swear by the “Two-Finger Rule,” which means measuring the amount of sunscreen based on the size of your index and middle finger. Using the two-finger rule, you’ll have enough to cover your face, neck, and head.

Another reason we like this method is that it gives a quantity that is most suited for you individually. Plus, unlike a standard measurement such as a dessert spoonful, this method works for children and adults.

 

The Shot Glass Method

Another way to measure how much SPF to use is with a shot glass. This will result in approximately an ounce of sunscreen, which experts say is the best protection for your entire body and face.

 

Nickel Sized Dollop

If you’re interested in a specific sunscreen measurement for your face, it’s 0.04 ounces (or 1.2ml). This is because your face is 4% of your entire skin’s surface, so 4% of one ounce is 0.04 ounces. This equates to a nickel-sized dollop, which is an easy way to measure out when you’re at the beach.

 

Final Thoughts

Knowing how much sunscreen is enough to use is just one aspect of protecting your bare skin and exposed areas of the face. Choosing a high-quality sunscreen that does not harm your skin, like Black Girl Sunscreen, will keep your face looking healthy and young.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing SPF 30 – Filled with ingredients that will protect your skin from the sun, our SPF 30 doubles as a moisturizing lotion that dries completely clear. Making it perfect to use before any outdoor activity or as a primer under your favorite makeup products.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Matte™ SPF 45 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight, gel formula protects against sun damage leaving no white residue and a mattifying finish for oily skin. Make it Matte is a broad-spectrum SPF 45 infused with ingredients such as aloe, squalene, and shea butter that help moisturize, soothe and heal your skin.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Hybrid™ SPF 50 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight mineral and synthetic formula with zinc-oxide is designed to protect against sun damage leaving no white residue and a dewy finish.

 

• *Bonus* Make It Pop™ Sun Gloss – A revolutionary sun gloss for protected, glossy, and poppin’ lips. Formulated with Broad Spectrum SPF 50, hyaluronic acid, tripeptides, and jojoba. This sun gloss will make you feel good and look good while protecting your lips from the sun.

 

What’s more, incorporating sunscreen application into your daily skincare routine will boost the benefits further. Regular sunscreen use is an important step that provides the needed level of protection for both your face and body.

We all know the importance of using sunscreen.

 

Not only does it protect the sensitive skin on our faces from burning, but it also prevents fine lines and premature aging.

 

So, where does sunscreen fit in the order of our daily skin care routine – should we apply sunscreen before or after moisturizer?

 

In this short guide, we’ll answer this question along with other common queries to help you get the most benefits possible from your sun protection products and how to apply your sunscreen in the right order.

 

Types Of Sunscreen

Firstly, it’s essential to know there are two different types of sunscreen available: chemical and mineral. Both work in different ways, determining which point of your skin care routine you should apply them.

 

Chemical Sunscreen

As the name suggests, chemical, or physical sunscreen, contains a fair amount of active chemical ingredients, often up to 12. This is worrying as some chemicals used in these sunscreens, such as Oxybenzone and Octinoxate, can disrupt your hormones.

 

What’s more, these chemicals absorb into the top layer of your skin and react with it to help absorb and filter out the sun’s damaging UV rays. As chemical sunscreens need to be absorbed into the skin to work, you should apply them 20 to 30 minutes before going out into the sun.

 

Mineral Sunscreen

Mineral sunscreens are a more natural alternative, made from zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and other ingredients. These mineral-based ingredients are much gentler on your skin and thus, are seen as a safer option.

 

Mineral sunscreens don’t absorb UV rays into your skin, unlike the chemical versions. Instead, they work as a barrier between the skin and the harmful UV radiation by reflecting them away. Mineral sunscreens are thicker than chemical ones and usually come as a cream rather than a spray.

 

Difference Between Sunscreen and Moisturizers

Moisturizers and sunscreen have different uses and should not be used interchangeably. For example, moisturizers hydrate skin, whereas sunscreen protects it from harmful UV rays.

 

While it’s true that some moisturizers contain SPF protection, it is usually much lower than the protection sunscreens provide. Therefore, the added SPF protection in moisturizers may not be enough to protect many people’s skin.

 

Should You Apply Sunscreen Before Or After Moisturizer?

Whether you apply sunscreen before or after moisturizer, a general rule to follow is you should apply your sunscreen after your moisturizer.  

 

If using a chemical sunscreen, it’s important to note that chemicals need to penetrate the skin to work. Therefore, it’s best to allow time for your moisturizer to dry. If applied too soon, the moisturizer could create a barrier between the sunscreen and your skin, preventing it from working.

 

However, for mineral sunscreens, it’s the opposite. You can immediately apply your mineral-based sunscreen choice after moisturizer since this sunscreen does not absorb or react with the skin.

 

How Long To Wait Between Applying Sunscreen And Moisturizer?

There is no specific waiting time required between applying the two products. Instead, you should simply wait for the moisturizer to fully absorb before applying sunscreen, which is usually only a minute or so.

 

Can I Mix Sunscreen With Moisturizer?

It is generally not recommended to mix both products together. Combining them could stop them from correctly working as they are specially formulated.

 

That being said, daily sunscreens like Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 include moisturizing ingredients like jojoba and avocado. In these cases, our sunscreens also double as a moisturizing lotion.

 

Fitting Sunscreen Into Your Skincare Routine

So, where does sunscreen fit into your morning skincare routine? When using sunscreen, the best way to apply it is after all your other skin care products, such as cleanser, toner, and daily moisturizer. Additionally, you should apply eye serums and creams before using sunscreen in the final step.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing SPF 30 – Filled with ingredients that will protect your skin from the sun, our SPF 30 doubles as a moisturizing lotion that dries completely clear. Making it perfect to use before any outdoor activity or as a primer under your favorite makeup products.

 

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte™ SPF 45 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight, gel formula protects against sun damage leaving no white residue and a mattifying finish for oily skin. Make it Matte is a broad-spectrum SPF 45 infused with ingredients such as aloe, squalene, and shea butter that help moisturize, soothe and heal your skin.

 

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Hybrid™ SPF 50 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight mineral and synthetic formula with zinc-oxide is designed to protect against sun damage leaving no white residue and a dewy finish.

 

• *Bonus* Make It Pop™ Sun Gloss – A revolutionary sun gloss for protected, glossy, and poppin’ lips. Formulated with Broad Spectrum SPF 50, hyaluronic acid, tripeptides, and jojoba. This sun gloss will make you feel good and look good while protecting your lips from the sun.

 

In most cases, Black Girl Sunscreen should always be the outermost layer with no other products on top of it. To apply it over makeup, we recommend using a beauty sponge. Also, Black Girl Sunscreen products can be used as a primer.

Two of the most important factors to consider when buying sunscreen are: the ingredients and which SPF rating to use for your skin.

 

And with so many options, which elements are best for not only your skin but that are also environmentally friendly?

 

Zinc and titanium-based sunscreens top the list, which is why they’re the main active ingredients in our Make It Hybrid™ SPF 50 Sunscreen. In this post, we’ll discuss the power of Zinc Oxide in Sunscreen and the benefits it provides.

 

But first…

 

What is Zinc Oxide?

Zinc oxide is an inorganic compound that’s produced as a white powder. As an inert compound, it’s common in the manufacture of a variety of products and is a popular, effective, and environmentally-friendly sunblock.

 

When used in sunscreen, Zinc Oxide works in a similar fashion as a mirror, reflecting UVA and UVB light off the skin’s surface. The mineral is thus popular in the cosmetic industry thanks to its broad-spectrum ability to protect the skin from harmful sun rays, preventing radiation, skin damage, sunburns, and skin cancer.

 

The compound is one of the 17 essential ingredients with FDA approval for sunblock products.

 

What are the Benefits of Zinc Oxide Sunscreen?

Broad-Spectrum Sunblock

The sun’s rays hit our skin in different wavelengths, namely UVA, UVB, and UVC. When they hit bare skin, these rays wreak havoc and cause damage, including degrading DNA, depleting collagen, premature aging.

 

While many SPF products are marketed as broad-spectrum, Zinc Oxide is the most effective. The compound shields the skin against the harmful effects of both short and long-wavelength rays, unlike its competitors, such as titanium dioxide, which does an excellent job but falls short when it comes to blocking UVA effectively.

 

It’s Safe for the Skin and Environment

Recent research has shown that most products used in sunscreens are harmful to the skin. For instance, take an ingredient such as oxybenzone.

 

The previously common sunscreen ingredient has been found to cause adverse harm to the skin and the body in general. Today, oxybenzone is unpopular as it has been found to cause eye irritation and skin allergies.

 

Research also shows that it disrupts hormones in humans by affecting the production of testosterone and estrogen in men and women, respectively.

 

Currently, the safest sunscreen ingredients, according to the Environmental Working Group, are Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, which is why they are featured prominently in our new product line.

 

Most importantly, Zinc Oxide is eco-friendly, as research shows it doesn’t affect marine life.

 

It’s a Safe Synthetic as It’s Produced in Controlled Environments

Zinc Oxide occurs naturally as the mineral Zincite. However, minerals can have impurities. Coupled with the high demand for the product, manufacturers have resulted in producing the compound synthetically to meet demand.

 

The good news is that the production of Zinc Oxide in the lab makes it a ‘safe synthetic,’ which means it’s manufactured in its purest form – safe for environments and coral reefs.

 

It Calms Inflammation and is Excellent for Sensitive and Acneic Skin

Of all active sunscreen ingredients, research has shown Zinc Oxide to have the best soothing effect on inflamed skin. This relaxing property also makes it an excellent alternative for people with sensitive skin.

 

If you have acne, you may not be a fan of sunscreen as most ingredients irritate the skin. However, the chances are that you’re a regular user of exfoliants, which are known to make the skin more photosensitive.

 

That alone increases the need to use sunscreen to counter the effects of exfoliants. The good news is that Zinc Oxide’s anti-inflammatory nature makes it the best option for you as it’s less likely to irritate.

 

What are the Drawbacks of Zinc Oxide?

When it comes to protection against harmful sun rays, nothing beats Zinc Oxide. In the past, consumers with a darker skin tone have indicated that using a Zinc Oxide-based sunscreen leaves a white cast on the skin.

 

However, technological and manufacturing advancements have introduced techniques and filler products that help the sunscreen blend in without leaving any residue on the skin.

 

The Takeaway

Whether you have sensitive or oily skin and are looking for an effective sunscreen, invest in a Zinc Oxide-based alternative.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Hybrid™ SPF 50 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight mineral and synthetic formula with zinc-oxide is designed to protect against sun damage leaving no white residue and a dewy finish.

 

Not only will it protect you against a broad spectrum of UV rays, but it will also soothe your skin and act as an anti-inflammatory product. Most importantly, its non-comedogenic property means it is not oil-based and thus won’t block your pores or cause irritation.

 

Regardless of the kind of sun protection you need, our wide range of zinc and titanium-based sunscreens will offer just the proper protection so you can go through your day free of worry – melanin protected.

If you have ever grabbed a bottle of sunscreen from counters or shelves from your local store run, then you have may have likely been greeted with huge, printed numbers. These figures generally signify the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of these products and are a great measure of how shielded your melanin will be from the sun.

 

However, as these numbers can range from as low as 15 to as high as 50, they can be quite confusing, especially if you are new to the world of sun protection and sunscreen blocks. So, to help you out, we’ve prepared this post to show you everything you need to know about SPF.

 

But First! — The Types of UV Rays

UV rays generally refer to a form of radiation that is emitted by the sun and other light-producing sources. This form of radiation is especially helpful in aiding our production of Vitamin D. However, overexposure to UV rays can also lead to damaging effects, such as premature aging or cancer.

 

If you are aiming to keep your skin in top condition, then it is crucial that you not only know how to protect yourself from UV rays but also the different types of UV rays.

 

UVA Radiation & Protection

This is the most common form of UV rays that we experience, as about 95% of the radiation that we receive from the sun are UVA rays. Additionally, because UVA rays have much longer wavelengths than other forms of UV, they can penetrate much deeper into the skin, which means that they can easily lead to issues such as premature skin aging, skin damage and wrinkles.

 

UVB Radiation & Protection

Most UVB rays are absorbed by the ozone layer, and their shorter wavelengths also mean that they don’t penetrate as deeply into the skin as UVA rays. However, this means that they are much more likely to cause top layer burning, leading to sunburns and skin cancers.

 

UVC Radiation & Rays

These have much shorter wavelengths than the other forms of UV rays, and most of them are filtered out by the Earth’s atmosphere. This means that they never reach our skin.

 

What SPF Stands For?

One of the common questions we receive is, what does the SPF number mean. Essentially, this is a rating given to sunscreens to help determine the level of UVB ray protection they offer. Naturally, this means that the higher the SPF rating, the longer you can stay in the sun without getting burned.

 

So, if you find that it typically takes about 5 minutes in the sun before you being to notice any burning, then using a product that has an SPF of 30 will mean that it will take 30 times longer for you to experience any sunburns.

 

The Full Breakdown of How Sun Protection Works

Most sunscreens work by blocking out UVB and UVA rays from penetrating the skin. Essentially, this means that when you apply and reapply sunscreen, the physical and chemical particles in the product, such as titanium oxide, help to reflect the UV radiation. So, rather than the UV rays penetrating the skin, they are absorbed and released as heat.

 

Naturally, this means that by simply applying sunscreen, you are not only protected from burning and dangerous skin cancers, but also photoaging. If you have rarely used sunscreen and are not sure which type to purchase, make sure to purchase a broad-spectrum sunscreen as it protects against both forms of UV.

 

When to Use the SPF 30 Rating

SPF 30 is generally the minimum level of sun protection that you should be wearing for darker skin, and we highly suggest that you never go below it. SPF 30 is great for daily use and is especially ideal on days when you’re mostly going to be staying at home and may not be receiving much direct sunlight.

 

When to Use the SPF 45 Rating

SPF 45 is more suitable to wear on days when you may only be receiving a modest level of sunlight, such as slightly warmer days. This will help keep your skin in top condition and protect you from burning and skin cancers.

 

When to Use the SPF 50 Rating

We mostly recommend wearing SPF 50 on days when your sun exposure is going to be extremely high, such as afternoons on the beach. We also suggest that you always keep your bottle of sunscreen with you, as this will allow you to quickly reapply it when needed.

 

SPF Numbers: Is the Higher SPF Better?

Unfortunately, when most people are thinking about which sunscreen product to purchase, they grab the bottle with the higher SPF number. However, this is not always necessary, and you must remember that the SPF number meaning is simply a measure of the amount of time you can stay under the sun before you begin burning.

 

So, if you do not frequently experience many sunburns without sunscreen, then a bottle of SPF 30 or SPF 45 should be great at keeping you fully protected. On the other hand, if you frequently experience burning, then you may want to look at higher numbers, such as SPF 50. In any case, make sure to reapply your sunscreen every two hours for maximum protection.

 

Choosing the Right SPF Number for Your Sun Protection Needs

Your melanin is amazing. It performs super hero like duties but unfortunately it cannot completely protect you from harmful UV rays. Take the time to research skin cancer in African Americans and purchase sunscreen. Your body will thank you.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing SPF 30 – Filled with ingredients that will protect your skin from the sun, our SPF 30 doubles as a moisturizing lotion that dries completely clear. Making it perfect to use before any outdoor activity or as a primer under your favorite makeup products.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte™ SPF 45 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight, gel formula protects against sun damage leaving no white residue and a mattifying finish for oily skin. Make it Matte is a broad-spectrum SPF 45 infused with ingredients such as aloe, squalene, and shea butter that help moisturize, soothe and heal your skin.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Hybrid™ SPF 50 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight mineral and synthetic formula with zinc-oxide is designed to protect against sun damage leaving no white residue and a dewy finish.

 

• BGS Kids SPF 50  – BGS for Kids is an everyday SPF 50 moisturizing sunscreen lotion for face and body. Our sunscreen protects against harmful UVA/UVB rays and has eliminated all sticky white residue. Soothes, moisturizes, protects, hydrates and heals your child’s skin.

When it comes down to buying protection from UV rays, there are two types of sunscreen to look out for when making a purchase: mineral and chemical-based.

 

The main difference between mineral vs chemical sunscreens is that mineral-based sunscreen sits on the skin – whereas chemical sunscreens have their ingredients absorbed into the skin.

 

Both options have their benefits – but when determining which one would be best for you, there are several pros and cons to keep in mind.

 

What is Mineral Sunscreen?

Also called a ‘physical blocker’, a mineral-based sunscreen contains either titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or a combination of the two to protect from ultraviolet radiation.

 

Pros of Mineral Sunscreen

The benefits of a mineral sunscreen include:

• Immediate protection from the sun’s rays as soon as it’s applied to your skin.
• A longer shelf-life and duration of indirect UV-ray protection.
• A decreased chance of experiencing irritation, ideal for those with sensitive skin types.
• Deflection of heat and energy from the sunlight from a physical blocker may greatly benefit any dermis that may have such conditions as rosacea.
• A reduced likeliness of having pore clogs when applying to your skin if your skin type is prone to blemishes.

 

Cons of Mineral Sunscreen

Of course, there are a few downsides to mineral sunscreen, such as:

• Reapplication of mineral-based protection may be more frequent as it can be rubbed, sweated, and rinsed off easily.
• A ‘chalkiness’ – or white cast – may develop and be left on your skin.
• Mineral sunscreen blockers can be quite thick – and may cause white ‘drips’ when perspiring, if not rubbed in thoroughly and properly.

 

Chemical-based Sunscreens

Using compounds like oxybenzone (more on why the industry is moving away from oxybenzone), avobenzone, and octinoxate, chemical sunscreens help produce a chemical reaction that absorbs and releases the heat generated by ultraviolet rays from the skin.

 

Pros of Chemical Sunscreens

The benefits of a chemical sunscreen may include:

• Ease of application due to a thinner material, making it more ideal for wearability and daily use.
• Applying this type of sunscreen less frequently as the molecules of chemical sunscreens lack spaces between them.
• Can blend a chemical-based sunscreen with other ingredients – such as enzymes or peptides – that help benefit the skin.

 

Cons of Chemical Sunscreens

However, just like with mineral sunscreen, there are downsides to chemical sunscreens.  These include:

• A probable increase in existing discoloration or ‘brown spots’ on the skin due to high internal skin temperatures.
• Wait times of roughly 20 minutes once applied before the compounds begin to activate.
• Can experience irritation or stinging of the skin; more so for those with dry skin or similar dermatological issues. This chance can further increase the higher an SPF rating a formula may have.
• When in direct UV radiation, chemical sunscreen protection could be used up more quickly
• Both an increased likelihood of experiencing pore-clogging (if you have an oily skin type) as well as redness.

 

The Key Difference between Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen

With a mineral-based sunblock, ingredients sit on the skin – whereas chemical sunscreens have their ingredients absorbed into the skin. Mineral sunscreens do not absorb into the bloodstream, which are considered safer for everyone.

 

Chemical sunscreens may also negatively impact the environment and – although without proven certainty – have faced recalls over several years.

 

If you have sensitive skin, rosacea, or acne-prone skin, it may be best to look into mineral-based sunscreen protection. Mineral-based sunscreen can provide greater long-term protection, even if it takes longer to apply than a chemical sunscreen.

 

Even those who wear makeup may find a benefit to mineral-based sunscreens since they are better for application under makeup.

 

Protect Your Melanin Skin with Regular Sunscreen Use

Your melanin is amazing. It performs super hero-like duties, but unfortunately it cannot completely protect you from harmful UV rays. Take the time to research skin cancer in African Americans and purchase sunscreen, based on your needed sun protection factor. Your body will thank you.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing SPF 30 – Filled with ingredients that will protect your skin from the sun, our SPF 30 doubles as a moisturizing lotion that dries completely clear. Making it perfect to use before any outdoor activity or as a primer under your favorite makeup products.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte™ SPF 45 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight, gel formula protects against sun damage leaving no white residue and a mattifying finish for oily skin. Make it Matte is a broad-spectrum SPF 45 sunscreen infused with ingredients. Aloe, squalene, and shea butter ingredients help moisturize, soothe and heal your skin.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Hybrid™ SPF 50 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight mineral and synthetic formula with zinc-oxide is designed to protect against sun damage leaving no white residue and a dewy finish.

 

• BGS Kids SPF 50  – BGS Kids is an everyday SPF 50 moisturizing sunscreen lotion for face and body. Our sunscreen protects against harmful UVA/UVB rays and has eliminated all sticky white residue. Soothes, moisturizes, protects, hydrates and heals your child’s skin.

 

In the end, you should consider your skin type and needs when selecting the best choice of UV-ray production – whether it’s a mineral or chemical-based formula.

In the black community it’s a common misconception that our melanin-infused skin completely eliminates the need for sunscreen as protection. Yes, darker skin does protect from some UV rays, but we actually do need to wear sunscreen too.

 

Skin cancer and aging lines don’t discriminate. Every skin tone on earth is at risk of being dried out, aged and burnt by the sun. It’s not too late to properly take care of your melanin.

 

Let’s take a moment to explore the reasons why sunscreen is a must, even for darker skin tones.

 

Why Your Melanin Needs Sun Protection

For a long time, there has been a misconception that because we have more melanin on our skin, we’re fully protected from the harmful rays of the sun.

 

However, the truth is, despite the fact that we have far more protection than our fair brothers and sisters, we have less than we need for full protection from UV rays.

 

The human skin needs at least a sunscreen with SPF 30 to fully protect from harmful UV rays. That puts us as black folks at a deficit of about SPF 17 because our melanin only provides an SPF of 13.

 

Knowing that that black skin only provides SPF of 13, goes to show that indeed, black people need to wear sunscreen as much as Caucasians do. We may be protected to a certain degree, but we’re still susceptible to the harms caused by the sun’s rays.

 

This alone is good enough reason why you should buy sunscreen for your melanin skin. Skin cancer effects both lighter skin and darker skin tones. Your skin protectant blocks UV light up to SPF 13. This isn’t as strong as the sunscreen (SPF 30 is recommended) which is created for skin protection.

 

That means cancer can and will develop in your skin, if not properly protected. Studies also show that we are more likely to die from skin cancer than those with lighter skin. Melanated people are simply more likely to die from skin cancer because we aren’t looking for the signs and don’t take the necessary precautions to prevent skin cancers.

 

The Benefits of Sunscreen on Black Skin

• Protects You from Melanoma & Skin Cancer

UV exposure is one of the major causes of melanoma and skin cancer. And while we might have twice as much protection as Caucasians thanks to our melanin, research shows that black folks are among the most vulnerable populations.

 

Part of the reason for this is the widespread belief that we don’t need sunscreen. Because of this belief, most of us don’t even look out for signs of skin damage until it’s too late.

 

As a result, studies show that black people have a higher tendency than Caucasians of presenting with advanced skin cancers at diagnosis. The only way of avoiding being part of this statistic is to start using sunscreen formulated for dark skin regularly.

 

• Protects from Premature Aging & Wrinkling

One of the benefits of dark skin is the ability to look as if you haven’t aged a day. You want to keep these good looks, right? Don’t let the sun dry out your skin creating fine lines and wrinkles. It’s simply not worth it when you can purchase sunscreen designed specifically for people of color.

 

Unlike regular sunscreens, broad-spectrum sunscreens blocks both UVB and UVA rays, protecting you from sunburn as well as premature aging.

 

Sagging skin will become a reality if sunscreen isn’t used while you’re in the sun. This is especially true for those who live in areas like Texas, Florida and other places where the sun always shines.

 

• Protects Skin from Uneven Tone & Dark Spots

We all want to maintain smooth and flawless skin as long as possible. One of the best ways to keep your skin healthy, smooth, and soft is to use sunscreen regularly.

 

Sunlight also creates uneven skin tones and dark spots which can be totally avoided with a little sun screen. Aging spots and lines aren’t the only thing to worry about. Your skin will lose tone, and volume.

 

It’s essential to understand that not all sunscreens are created equal. For the best results, studies and dermatologists recommend that you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30.

 

• Protects from Unwanted Sunburn and Sun Damage

If you’ve never experienced a sunburn or sun damage lucky you. It’s the worst feeling and seeing your skin peel right before your eyes is pretty weird. Sunburns can happen on all skin tones.

 

When it comes to sunburns, it certainly takes longer for dark-skinned folks. However, exposure for a longer time means we can eventually develop sunburn, which leads to unsightly peeling of the skin.

 

Take the extra precaution of choosing the right sunscreen designed for your skin type. It doesn’t hurt to take these measures. In the long run your skin will truly thank you.

 

While you’re in the sun your skin will become tanner and darker, everyone knows this but do you know why? The tanning effect isn’t really a tan — it’s a sign of skin damage from the sun. Your body produces more melanin in effort to protect that previous outer layer of skin.

 

Which Sunscreen Should I Use?

Your melanin is amazing. It performs super hero like duties but unfortunately it cannot completely protect you from harmful UV rays. Take the time to research skin cancer in African Americans and purchase a daily sunscreen formula, made with your skin in mind. Your face and body will thank you.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing SPF 30 – Filled with ingredients that will protect your skin from the sun, our SPF 30 doubles as a moisturizing lotion that dries completely clear. Making it perfect to use before any outdoor activity or as a primer under your favorite makeup products.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte™ SPF 45 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight, gel formula protects against sun damage leaving no white residue and a mattifying finish for oily skin. Make it Matte is a broad-spectrum SPF 45 infused with ingredients such as aloe, squalene, and shea butter that help moisturize, soothe and heal your skin.

 

• Black Girl Sunscreen Make it Hybrid™ SPF 50 – Black Girl Sunscreen’s lightweight mineral and synthetic formula with zinc-oxide is designed to protect against sun damage leaving no white residue and a dewy finish.

 

• BGS Kids SPF 50  – BGS Kids is an everyday SPF 50 moisturizing sunscreen lotion for face and body. Our sunscreen protects against harmful UVA/UVB rays and has eliminated all sticky white residue. Soothes, moisturizes, protects, hydrates and heals your child’s skin.

 

• *Bonus* Make It Pop™ Sun Gloss – A revolutionary sun gloss for protected, glossy, and poppin’ lips. Formulated with Broad Spectrum SPF 50, hyaluronic acid, tripeptides, and jojoba. This sun gloss will make you feel good and look good while protecting your lips from the sun.

 

We’re fortunate to have a layer of protection against the sun thanks to our melanin. But as studies continue to shed light on the effects of the sun on all skin tones, sunscreens have become a daily necessity.

While oxybenzone is commonly used to effectively filter UVA / UVB rays, environmental experts cite oxybenzone as a catalyst in coral bleaching and accumulation of toxic levels in human & marine life.

 

What is Oxybenzone?

Oxybenzone is a benzophenone derivative — it causes photochemical excitation and absorption of energy as a result of UVB and UVA II ray absorption.

 

What is meant by this scientific jargon may be esoteric, but the key takeaway is: oxybenzone is detrimental to both you, and the environment.

 

It is a naturally occurring chemical found in a variety of flowering plants, and is an active ingredient in most commonly found sunscreens; approximately 80% of chemical sunscreens contain oxybenzone. Its primary function in sunscreens is to absorb harmful UV lights — while it does do a good job at that, research has shown that it is absorbed into the skin and subsequently stays in our bodies for unknown periods of time.

 

The EWG has rated oxybenzone as an 8 on their toxicity rating scale — implicating that it is one of the most toxic ingredients found in cosmetic products today. Both the EWG and other prolific toxicology experts have pointed towards signs of the compound as carcinogenic; being linked to hormonal disruption in humans, potentially damaging cells, and leading to skin cancer.

 

Oxybenzone & Environmental Concerns

Coral bleaching is defined by the loss of a coral’s bright and vibrant colors, shifting into white. How does this relate to oxybenzone?

 

For a start, oxybenzone contributes largely by essentially turning the water around corals toxic. Studies have shown that oxybenzone exhibits DNA damaging characteristics towards young coral reefs, stunting their growth and development. While this does not directly lead to coral bleaching, it definitely makes them more susceptible to it. Not just this, oxybenzone leads to stress in the corals’ symbiotic partners; algae. Dormant viral infections in algae are awoken, subsequently leading to the expulsion of algae by the corals. This then leads to coral bleaching due to a lack of algae. If all this isn’t enough, the chemical has also been shown to cause corals to make an enlarged skeleton and to become encased in it — researchers state that oxybenzone is “a skeletal endocrine disruptor” in coral.

 

How does oxybenzone reach the ocean in the first place? The chemical enters the ocean whenever we swim with sunscreens containing the chemical on our skin. Not just this, it also enters the ocean whenever wastewater is drained from our homes after bathing whilst wearing the sunscreen in question.

 

Which Personal Care Products Contain Oxybenzone?

Sunscreen products are not the only off-the-shelf products found that contains oxybenzone. The prevalence of this toxic substance is rather mind-boggling; this is a small excerpt of the list of personal care products to look out for that contain oxybenzone.

 

Hair:

• Cleanser
• Conditioner
• Hair Spray
• Shaving Cream
• Hair Removal Waxes

Nails:

• Nail Glue
• Nail Polish
• Polish Remover
• Cuticle Treatment

Makeup:

• Eye Liner
• Brow Liner
• Lip Gloss
• Lip Balm
• Lipstick
• Concealer
• Foundation
• Facial Powder
• Makeup Remover

Skin:

• Body Oil
• Moisturizer
• Foot Odor Control
• Bar Soap
• Hand Sanitizer
• Liquid Hand Soap
• Anti Aging

Oral Care/Hygiene:

• Breath Fresheners
• Mouthwash
• Tooth Whitening
• Toothpaste

Babies:

• Baby Bubble Bath
• Baby Lotion
• Baby Soap
• Diaper Cream
• Baby Wipes

For men:

• Body Spray
• Antiperspirant/Deodorant
• Hair Loss Treatment
• Shampoo
• Beard Care
• After Shave

Safer & Alternative Sunscreen Ingredients to Look for

Non-nano zinc oxide and non-nano titanium dioxide are UV resistant alternatives to oxybenzone that are recognized as GRASE, and acronym for “generally recognized as safe and effective” by the FDA.

 

Not just this, they come with a variety of other benefits as well. Zinc oxide has antimicrobial properties, which can help wounds heal more quickly. Both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are non-comedogenic, meaning that they are oil-free and will not clog up your pores — making them an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.

 

Whenever shopping for sunscreen products from now on, be sure to look out for labels and products containing oxybenzone; avoid them for the sake of both you, and the environment. All of our Black Girl Sunscreen formulas are created with these exact same safer alternatives to provide exceptional sun protection for both the skin and the environment. Switch to a oxybenzone-free sunscreen today.