While Skin Cancer Awareness Month in May serves as a reminder of the importance of sun protection, safeguarding your skin shouldn’t be limited to a single month. As a person with melanin-rich skin, finding the right sunscreen is crucial for maintaining healthy, glowing skin year-round. Dr. Geeta Yadav, a board-certified dermatologist, shares expert insights on sunscreens myths and recommendations for melanin-rich skin.

5 Sunscreen Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping Sunscreen Altogether

Every day is an opportunity to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Contrary to popular belief, melanin-rich skin still requires SPF protection to prevent sun damage and maintain skin health.

2. Believing Darker Skin Can’t Get Sunburnt

While sunburn may not be as visible on darker skin, the risk of UV damage and skin cancer remains. Protect your skin with daily sunscreens application, regardless of your skin tone.

3. Avoiding Sunscreen Due to White Cast

Don’t let concerns about white cast deter you from using sunscreens. Look for formulations specifically designed for melanin-rich skin, such as EXTRASHADE Daily Hydrating Sunscreens Lotion, which provides broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white residue.

4. Relying Solely on Makeup with SPF

While makeup may offer some SPF coverage, it’s not sufficient for adequate sun protection. Layer sunscreens underneath your makeup to ensure comprehensive UV protection throughout the day.

5. Skipping Sunscreen on Cloudy Days

UV rays can penetrate clouds and cause skin damage, even on overcast days. Make sunscreen a non-negotiable step in your daily skincare routine, rain or shine.

Choosing the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin

When selecting sunscreen for melanin-rich skin, consider the following factors:

SPF Protection: Opt for a sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF protection of at least 30 to guard against both UVA and UVB rays.

Formulation: Choose a sunscreen that is lightweight, non-greasy, and specifically formulated for dark skin to avoid a white cast.

Recommended Sunscreen for Melanin-Rich Skin

Consider incorporating EXTRASHADE Daily Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion into your daily skincare routine. Formulated with melanin-rich skin in mind, this sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection while hydrating and nourishing the skin. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula ensures comfortable wear throughout the day, making it an ideal choice for daily sun protection.

Conclusion

Don’t wait until Skin Cancer Awareness Month to prioritize sun protection. By making sunscreen a daily habit and choosing the right formulation for your skin, you can effectively safeguard your skin against sun damage and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion year-round.