No matter your skin tone, all skin types are susceptible to photo damage (sun damage). Melanin, our skin’s darkening pigment, offers protection from UVR (UV radiation) and free radicals. The darker the skin, the more protected the skin cells… right? Well, yes, and, no.
Although melanin is believed to offer a sun protection factor of about 4 SPF, meaning melanin absorbs 50% to 75% of UVR naturally, skin cells are still not totally immune to all radiation, and damage is possible. So what must we know in order to keep our skin safe?
How do we identify a sun burn in darker skin types?
Unlike lighter skin types which show visible damage: redness, darker skin tones tend to manifest physical symptoms such as heat, sensitivity, itchiness. Both types experience peeling.
Can darker skin types get skin cancer?
Yes, although the risk is lower, skin cancer has shown to result in more dangerous and terminal consequences for darker skin tones, and are more susceptible to a cancer known as *acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), appears on the palms of hands, soles of feet, under nails .
*Learn more about why there is a disparity in skin cancer diagnosis and survival HERE
What should darker skin types look for when checking for cancer?
dark spots, growths, or patches that appear to be changing
patches that feel rough and dry
dark lines underneath or around fingernails and toenails
What are sunscreen options that will compliment darker skin tones without the gray cast?
With the African American woman holding the largest stake of purchasing power in the beauty and cosmetic industry, skin care companies have been challenged to work harder to meet the needs of darker skin types.
Beauty site Byrdie, has compiled a thorough list. Of the recommendations listed, The Skin Trap is using Black Girl Sunscreen and loving it!
*source: Healthline, National Center for Biotechnology Information, Cancer.org