Dr Rinky Kapoor, dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at The Esthetic Clinics (India) – said that a common misconception that many people often have is that people with darker skin tones do not need to wear sunscreen.
According to Dr. Rinky Kapoor, although melanin (skin pigment) in dark-skinned people has natural protection, it does not make the skin immune to sun damage.
UV rays can still cause significant damage, regardless of skin color or type, leading to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, sunburn, and even skin cancer.
Dr. Kapoor recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 before going outdoors.
“Most studies have focused on fair-skinned people, leaving a knowledge gap for melanistic skin. This lack of data perpetuates the misconception that darker skin does not need protection,” says Kapoor.
Sunscreen not only blocks UV rays, it can also prevent skin aging. Dr. Kapoor explains that sunscreen helps prevent the effects of UVA rays, which are the main cause of skin aging, such as wrinkles and brown spots.
Although darker skin ages less quickly than lighter skin, protecting your skin from the sun can help keep it looking youthful and healthy for longer.
Additionally, sunscreen can protect the skin from environmental damage, helping to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
Dark skin is prone to hyperpigmentation after sun exposure. Dark spots, melasma and brown spots can appear or become darker if sunscreen is not used, especially for those with sensitive skin.
