Skin Blog

Decoding Labels—Finding the Right Sunscreen for Your Darker Complexion

Sunscreen labels do tell, but mostly, only what you want to see

Dazzling fancy designs, big names, high SPF numbers and over-the-top claims it’s almost impossible to tell which sunscreen equates to safety and quality just by judging on the label.

FDA sunscreen labeling standardsNow thanks to the FDA and evolving trends in multicultural personal care innovations you have more options and information to make smarter choices. Make sure to check for the key factors when choosing a sunscreen, to know if it’s right for your olive, brown, dark brown or whatever shades in between your skin falls in.

  1. Check for SPF 30. One of the most important digits you should look for on a sunscreen labels is the SPF.  Because darker skin does offer some increased protection against ultraviolet radiation, as people with dark skin have a higher melanin and eumelanin (brown-black pigment) content, which, in turn, reduces the risk of skin cancer induced by ultraviolet radiation from sun exposure, dermatologist recommend an SPF 30 for long-day defense.
  2. Check for Broad Spectrum. Regardless of whatever miracle ingredient you see on the label, a sunscreen that doesn’t work to protect against both UVA and UVB rays it’s not dependable for complete protection.
  3. Check for Toxins and Irritants. Take time to check the ingredients for nanoparticles, Mexory I and irritants as fragrance, lanolin, dye, alcohol or propylene glycol, which have been known to stimulate the production of excessive melanin which may cause hyperpigmentation.
  4. Check for Special Protective Formulation. Remember that having extra melanin is more than about having an extra shield against UV rays it is also about having extra sensitive skin. Look for safe hydrators like shea butter or hyaluronic acid and natural herbals that soothe and protect the skin as herbal extracts from kiwi and pomegranate.

Remember that your rich complexion can only get lovelier or healthier if you practice fair sun protection. Using the right sunscreen gets you on track. Truly, beauty is skin deep and so are sunscreens, check the facts not the fancy fame or fabulous façade.

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