These Sunscreen's Won't Leave You Looking Like A Ghost - Mar 8
Can we debunk the myth that black girls don't need sunscreen? I grew up thinking i didn't need sunscreen because like many others, i thought black skin couldn't burn. Boy was i wrong. The first time i realised i was sunburnt, i was 18 on holiday in Marbella with my family. I spent the whole time outside, under the sun, no sunscreen, just vibes. I didn't recognise myself after that trip. Did i start using sunscreen after? Nop. Sometimes I don’t know whats wrong with me. Anyway, thank God for maturity. Your skin-tone is not a determinant of whether or not you should wear sunscreen. Sunscreen has many benefits but to name a few, it slows signs of ageing, goes a long way to prevent skin cancer, and protects your skin texture. Many sunscreens on the shelves will leave you looking like a ghost and there are so many brands to choose from. To make your life easier, I've put together some of my favourite sunscreens and theres one to suit every budget.
1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid Sunscreen
This is one of my favourite sunscreens. It's non-greasy and more importantly, it doesn't leave any white cast. It is resistant to sweat, water and sand and retails for about £20 HERE
Who is it for
This sunscreen is specially formulated for sensitive skin.
How to use
Apply 30 minutes before exposure and reapply frequently and generously every two hours to maintain. protection.
2. Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
This sunscreen is specifically made for women of colour by women of colour. Not only does it protect your skin from the sun, it doubles up as a moisturiser and it dries completely clear. It's also lightweight and has no funny smell. It retails for just under £20 at HERE
Who is it for
It is suitable for people with dry to normal skin. Not suitable for oily skin
How to use
Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure, and re-apply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating and at least every 2 hours under regular conditions.
3. Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50
This sunscreen absorbs very quickly and also doesn't leave any white residue behind. It's a mineral sunscreen so it is very gentle, which makes it an ideal option for those with problem skin. It's more on the expensive side, retailing for £60 HERE but, its definitely worth it.
Who is it for
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
How to use
Shake well. Apply liberally to face, neck, and chest. For best results, apply a generous, small amount after daily moisturiser application for complete protection.
4. Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturiser Broad Spectrum SPF 30
This is also a 2 in 1 moisturiser and sunscreen. It's light-weight, oil free and truly invisible on all skin tones. Literally zero white cast. It retails for £34 at Fenty Beauty. It works well under makeup so you don't have to worry about layering it up.
Who is it for
It's suitable for all skin types.
How to use
Use on clean, dry skin every morning . If you’re spending time in the sun, I'd recommend reapplying every two hours for maximum sun protection.
5. Paula's choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid
This is another great sunscreen option that doesn't leave you looking chalky and even better, it's oil free. I recommend using it sparingly as it is very slippery and a little goes a long way. This sunscreen is SPF50, meaning near maximum protection. It retails for about £37 HERE
Who is it for
It's suitable for those with oily skin and combination skin. It also works well with acne and breakout-prone skin.
How to use
Apply as the last step in your morning routine and let it dry before proceeding to makeup application.
6. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+
This is what i use presently. This sunscreen is for the people who hate using sunscreen as it feels more like a serum that a sunscreen. It is suitable for both your face and body. It is non-sticky and non-greasy, it spreads well and is also absorbed by the skin easily. It contains hyaluronic acids (one of my favourite ingredients) which keeps your skin moisturised and hydrated. It has a slight fruity fragrance, sits well under makeup and does not leave a white cast. I highly recommend! It retails for about £18 HERE
Who is it for
Suitable for all skin types, including oily, acne-prone skin.
How to use
Apply as the last step in your morning routine.
7. The Body Shop Vitamin C Glow-Protect Lotion SPF30
This is a 2 in 1 moisturiser and sunscreen. it stings my eyes a bit temporarily but i love it nonetheless. it leaves your skin instantly brighter with a subtle glow which is nice under makeup. It has a strong citrus smell. The bottle is quite small but it lasts a reasonable amount of time. It retails for £15 HERE.
Who is it for
For dull, tired, grumpy skin. May not be suitable for oily skin.
How to use
Use as the last step in your morning skin care routine.
8. Glossier Invisible Shield Daily sunscreen SPF 30
Just as the name suggests, this is another invisible sunscreen that leaves no white cast. It's a gel-like formula that absorbs well into your skin, so it works well with makeup. The bottle is also very small but it surprisingly lasts you a while. It retails for £20 at Glossier.
Who is it for
Appropriate for all skin types
How to use
After your last skincare step, pump out the Invisible Shield and apply over your entire face.
This is how much sunscreen you should be using on your face. I know it seems a lot but it's what your skin needs and if you're using any of the ones I listed, once you blend it in, you can't see any remnants!
For my body, Lord knows i don't have the patience to use any sunscreen thats lotion-like. i'm sorry but i cant cream my body twice. I'm lazy. Foe this reason, I'll either use a body lotion that contains sunscreen or opt for a sunscreen spray.
The La Roche-Posay Anthelios Lotion Spray Sunscreen SPF 60 is one of my favourites. Apply it 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every 80 minutes. Shop HERE
If you want a sunscreen that doubles up as a body lotion, the Supergoop PLAY Everyday Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 PA++++ is the girl for you and it comes in three different sizes! Shop Here if you're in Nigeria. If you're outside Nigeria, Shop HERE
If you Live in Nigeria, here are a few places you can shop for sunscreen and more skincare products