Fact or Myth: Darker Complexions Offer Adequate SPF

While darker skin tones offer a natural SPF ranging from 5-13, this isn’t enough to keep the skin protected. The sun may not have your skin “seeing red,” but that doesn’t mean it’s not making its mark and taking it’s toll. A sunburn is a warning; it is the sun’s way of telling you it’s time to get out of the sun.

We’ve all heard the myth that people of color don’t tan or don’t sunburn because the skin is already dark. That MYTH is dangerously false.

There is also a similar misconception about whether or not people with dark skin tones need to wear SPF or not; SPF measures how long skin covered with sunscreen takes to burn compared to uncovered skin.

It’s true that people with darker skin tones don’t sunburn as easily as those with fairer skin. This is due to darker skin tones having an increased amount of epidermal melanin, which provides a natural SPF. Watch out though, even people with very dark skin who have a natural SPF of 13, (that filters twice as much UV radiation) are still susceptible to skin cancer, sun spots and wrinkles.

Those with darker complexions may not see their sun damage and accelerated wrinkles as soon, but they are just as susceptible to other signs of aging like skin growths, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.

Without the redness and burning sensation that accompanies a sunburn, those with darker complexions are less likely to sense the signal to get out of the sun.

With skin cancer on the rise for all ethnic groups, applying a good sunscreen with UVA/UVB ingredients is imperative anti-aging protection and safety insurance that all people should take advantage of year round. No matter what time of day or what the sky looks like!