Is it true that people with dark skin are not at risk of getting sunburn or skin cancer? This is a common misconception that dermatologists are working hard to clear up.
Although dark skin does offer more natural protection from the sun’s harmful rays than light skin, no one is immune to the damage caused by the sun.
It’s a common misconception that black people don’t need to wear sunscreen because of their melanin-filled skin. In fact, darker skin protects us from UV rays (Ultraviolet radiation), but we should also wear sunscreen.
Neither skin cancer nor aging lines discriminate. There are skin tones that are more likely to be dried out, aged, and burnt by the sun than others. You still have time to take proper care of your melanin.
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 harm caused by the sun’s rays.
The Benefits: Why Black People Still Need Sunscreen
This alone is good enough to buy sunscreen for your melanin. Skin cancer affects both lighter skin and darker skin tones. Your natural skin protectant blocks UV light up to SPF 13. This isn’t as strong as the sunscreen (SPF: Sun protection factor 30 is recommended) which is created for skin protection.
That means cancer can and will develop in your skin, if not properly protected.
Here is some importance of using sunscreens;
Protects You from Skin Cancer
UV exposure is one of the major causes of 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.
Protects from Premature Aging & Wrinkling
One benefit 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.
Protects Skin from Uneven Tone & Dark Spots
We all want to maintain smooth and flawless skin for as long as possible. One of the best ways to keep your skin healthy, smooth, and soft is to use sunscreen regularly.
Protect Your Melanin with Regular Sunscreen Use
Your melanin is amazing. It performs superhero-like duties but unfortunately, it cannot completely protect you from harmful UV rays. Take the time to research skin cancer in black people and purchase sunscreen. Your body will thank you.
