Poppin’.
Melanin is magical. Nature made no mistakes when it painted onto bodies different shades of brown. Although the sun reflects a shimmering glow on dark skin, its UV rays can still cause havoc underneath which can lead to hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and even skin cancer. And who got time for that? Let sunscreen be your best friend! Luckily, more brands are recognizing the demand for sunscreen specifically for dark skin that applies sheer and is still ultra-protective. No white cast over here!
According to dermatologists, you should be wearing sunscreen everyday whether it’s sunny (UVA) or gloomy (UVB) and make sure the SPF is at least 30. To make it easy for you, the ELEVEN11 Editors picked the best sunscreens that are dermatologist approved.
By Ashley O.
Black Girl Sunscreen
Ultra Sheer SPF 30
$18.99
Black Girl Sunscreen? The title alone drew us in. Made by women of color, this sunscreen has natural ingredients like jojoba, avocado and sunflower oil. It also doubles as a moisturizer with cocoa butter lotion infused which is perfect to wear under your favorite makeup products.
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Farmacy
Green Defense Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
$36
This mineral sunscreen glides on invisible and includes marigold and black chokeberry which are antioxidants known to help guard against pollution and blue light emitted from smartphones, tablets, and computers.
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EleVen By Venus
On-the-Defense Sunscreen SPF 30
$42
Venus William, tennis superstar, partnered with Credo Beauty and The Sunscreen Company to formulate the perfect sunscreen. Venus knows what it’s like to play day in and day out under the brutal sun. When we discovered she released her own sunscreen, we knew she wouldn’t steer us wrong. This sunscreen is 100% sheer mineral and dries on your skin invisible. It is reef-safe and has 25% Zinc Oxide to protect against UVA/UVB rays.
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Olay Sun
Facial Sunscreen + Shine Control SPF 35
$26.99
We love this one! It is ultra-lightweight and not greasy, absorbs in the skin quickly with no white cast and perfect to wear under makeup. If your skin is more on the drier side, then you can also pair it with your favorite moisturizer.
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Drunk Elephant
Umbra Sheer Physical Defense Protection Sunscreen SPF 30
$34
This sunscreen is packed with goodies. It has 20% Zinc Oxide for powerful UV protection, astaxanthin-rich algae extract which is an antioxidant to fight oxidative damage, and sunflower sprout extract to neutralize free radicals. Basically, it will help prevent fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven texture. Let’s face it, that is what we care about the most!
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Supergoop!
Defense Refresh Resetting Mist SPF 40
$30
This sunscreen is formulated as a light weight setting spray. It not only locks in protection against UV rays but also controls your natural oils and evens your complexion. This is perfect to throw in your bag on- the-go to reapply throughout the day.
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Krave
The Beet Shield SPF 50
$20
You can’t BEET this! (Ha!, corny joke I know). This antioxidant-rich fluid is packed with natural ingredients to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and free radicals. It is infused with beetroot extract which is a superfood to fight against skin aging, blemishes, and hyperpigmentation while also giving your skin much needed moisture. Allantonin, Vitamin C, Resveratrol, EGCG are also amazing nutrients infused inside the formula to soothe inflamed skin.
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Murad
City Skin Age Defense SPF 50
$68
This last one is a bit pricey but worth it! Murad products carry a reputation for keeping your skin looking smooth and radiant. This sunscreen is 100% mineral SPF 50 to shield skin from UVA, UVB, blue light, pollution & infrared radiation. It doesn't leave an ashy residue and absorbs quickly. Oh, and it also gives your skin a nice glow. Boom!
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