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Beauty/Skin/Sun Protection & Care

Top 10 Sunscreens For Darker Skin Tones

Best Sunscreens For Darker Skin Tones: Protect Your Skin From The Sun's Harmful Rays

Image credits: target

If you have darker skin, you know how hard it can be to find the perfect sunscreen. Many products on the market can leave an unsightly white cast on the skin, which can be frustrating and discouraging. However, it's important to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays, regardless of skin tone. Today, we'll take a closer look at why sunscreen is essential and provide a list of the best sunscreens for darker skin tones.

Why Sunscreen Is Important For Darker Skin Tones

While it's true that darker skin tones have a higher amount of melanin, which provides natural protection from the sun's rays, it's not enough to completely shield the skin from damage. UV rays can still penetrate the skin and cause various issues, including hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and premature aging. In some cases, it can even lead to skin cancer.

Unfortunately, many sunscreens on the market are not designed with darker skin tones in mind. They can leave a white or grey cast on the skin, making it difficult for those with darker skin to find a suitable option. This is why it's important to research and find sunscreen specifically formulated for darker skin tones.

What To Look For In A Sunscreen For Darker Skin Tones

When searching for the best sunscreen for darker skin tones, there are a few key things to remember. First and foremost, look for a product that is formulated for your skin type. This will help to ensure that it is effective at protecting your skin from the sun's rays without leaving any white or grey cast.

Next, look for a sunscreen with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. However, some experts recommend using a higher SPF, such as 50 or above, for optimal protection.

It's also important to consider the type of sunscreen you're using. Physical sunscreens, which contain ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, effectively block both UVA and UVB rays. They sit on top of the skin and reflect the sun's rays, providing a physical barrier between the skin and the sun. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, work by absorbing the sun's rays and converting them into heat. While they are highly effective and do not tend to leave a white cast, those with sensitive skin should stick with the physical sunscreen as the heat can be an irritant.

The Best Sunscreens For Darker Skin Tones

To help you find the best sunscreen for your skin tone, we've put together a list of the Top 10 options available on the market today. Using our data-driven algorithm, the following sunscreens have been selected due to their high ratings and popularity on the internet. From multitasking moisturizers to blurring and perfecting BB creams, take a glimpse below to get the scoop on the best sunscreens for darker skin tones featured on this list. 

Best Sunscreen For Darker Skin Overall: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen SPF 46 

Best Invisible Sunscreen For Darker Skin: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40  

Best Color-Correcting Sunscreen For Darker Skin: It Cosmetics CC+ Cream With SPF 50+ 

Best Moisturizing Sunscreen For Darker Skin: Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 

Best Serum Sunscreen For Darker Skin: Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 

Best Lightweight Sunscreen For Darker Skin: Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen 

Best Mineral Sunscreen For Darker Skin: Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 

Best Drugstore Sunscreen For Darker Skin: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50 

Best Brush-On Sunscreen For Darker Skin: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield 

Best Sheer Sunscreen For Darker Skin: MELE Dew The Most Sheer Facial Moisturizer With SPF 30 Sunscreen 

To learn more about the Top 10 sunscreens for darker skin, scroll down to read more and to shop our recommended products. 

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April 26, 2023

Written By:Rank & Style

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
Image credits: target
Rank & Style Approved

target

MELE Dew The Most Sheer Facial Moisturizer With SPF 30 Sunscreen

Overall Score

4.55

10

MELE Dew The Most Sheer Facial Moisturizer With SPF 30 Sunscreen

4.64

2053 User Reviews

3.3

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

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Best Sheer Sunscreen For Darker Skin

WHAT IT DOES
Developed by dermatologists of color who understand the needs of melanin-rich skin, this dreamy formula blends without a trace to deliver 24 hours of hydration and SPF 30 protection from UV and blue light. Can your current moisturizer do that?

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This moisturizer also contains a hefty dose of niacinamide, which decreases hyperpigmentation, redness, and blemishes and increases skin elasticity.


Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield

Overall Score

4.65

09

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield

4.37

5549 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Brush-On Sunscreen For Darker Skin

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
With its self-dispensing powder formula and brush-on applicator, this sunscreen couldn't be easier to apply. Plus, it comes in four colors and works both alone and over makeup.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Just to sweeten the deal, this sunscreen also contains mica that catches and reflects light to boost radiance in your complexion.

More Colors

More Colors


Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50

Overall Score

4.7

08

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50

4.41

3423 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Sunscreen For Darker Skin

WHY IT MADE THE LIST
With SPF 50 protection, a clear formula, and a $16 price tag, you can't go wrong with this dermatologist favorite. It also just so happens to be a daily moisturizer, so adding it to your routine is a no-brainer.

USER REVIEW
"This is super fast absorbing and leaves a beautiful, glowy, glass look to my skin. It goes great with my Ordinary and CeraVe skincare, and it has never balled up on my skin even with foundation, concealer, and powder. LOVE it. And as a brown-skinned girl, the blue cast fades within a minute. I've bought this twice now and getting a third."


Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

Overall Score

4.7

07

Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

4.49

1070 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Mineral Sunscreen For Darker Skin

WHY YOU NEED IT
Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 is a great option for those with darker skin tones as it contains a sheer formula that is specifically designed not to leave any white cast on the skin, while providing effective protection against harmful UV rays.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
What sets this sunscreen apart is its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula that contains mineral-based ingredients to offer superior sun protection without clogging pores or leaving any unwanted residue on the skin. It's a must-try for anyone who wants to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

Overall Score

4.7

06

Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

4.56

11149 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Lightweight Sunscreen For Darker Skin

WHAT IT DOES
Housed in sustainable, refillable packaging, this lightweight moisturizer brightens the skin and reduces the look of pores with every use. Plus, it's makeup-friendly and delivers a finish with zero pilling or flashback.

USER REVIEW
"I absolutely love this moisturizer. It makes my skin feel so soft and supple, and it also smells amazing. After applying this moisturizer, sometimes I don’t even want to put makeup on because It makes your skin feel so clean, fresh, and natural."

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

Overall Score

4.8

05

Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

4.28

16971 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Lightweight Foundation For Mature Skin

WHY IT MADE THE LIST
What can’t this Ilia skin tint do? It checks so many boxes, you may not want to wear foundation ever again. The vegan formula looks as clean as it feels, and it's truly a skincare-first type of coverage. The standouts are plant-based squalane for moisture, niacinamide for brightening and smoothing, and varying types of hyaluronic acids for added moisture and plumping the complexion.

USER REVIEW
“The best skin tint on the market! I have gone through like eight bottles of this, and I LOVE IT. Very dewy, melts right into your skin, and covers discoloration. It's also super easy to reapply throughout the day, and it doesn’t look cakey or separate when you do!”

More Colors

More Colors

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Overall Score

4.9

04

Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

4.84

6827 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Moisturizing Sunscreen For Darker Skin

WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Aside from the fact that it's literally made by a company that specializes in sunscreen for women of color, this formula is a total standout for its lasting power. Even though it's lightweight, reviewers say it moisturizes and protects for hours on end.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Unlike lots of facial sunscreens, this one is reef-friendly.


It Cosmetics CC+ Cream With SPF 50+

Overall Score

4.9

03

It Cosmetics CC+ Cream With SPF 50+

4.3

55524 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Color-Correcting Sunscreen For Dark Skin

WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Loved for its anti-aging benefits, this formula is practically skincare and makeup in one bottle. With an impressive roster of skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, and glycerin, this foundation will improve your complexion as you wear it.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Clinically proven to increase the skin's natural hydration with amplifying ingredients like collagen and peptides, this full-coverage CC cream reduces the appearance of wrinkles and enhances your skin's visible elasticity for a youthful, smooth finish.

More Colors

More Colors

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40

Overall Score

4.95

02

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40

4.59

22174 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

5

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Invisible Sunscreen For Darker Skin

WHY IT MADE THE LIST
This sunscreen is weightless, transparent, and absorbs so quickly—you won’t even feel like you’re wearing one. Bonus: it doubles as a makeup-gripping primer, so you're tackling two steps for the price of one.

USER REVIEW
“I have worn this sunscreen four times, and as a mocha-toned woman, I have loved how it doesn’t make my skin look grey or whitish or oily and gives me a matte finish throughout the day. It feels like it’s barely there, but it is!"

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen SPF 46

Overall Score

5

01

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen SPF 46

4.72

45892 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Sunscreen For Darker Skin Overall

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
This is a lightweight, oil-free face sunscreen that's perfect for acne-prone and sensitive skin. The high SPF makes it a great dual product that moisturizes and protects.

WHAT IT DOES
This sunscreen's smooth formula includes sodium hyaluronate to moisturize, while lactic acid refines the skin to clear pores and reduce shine.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

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