Design by Lizzie Munro for Thrillist

Sunscreen isn’t optional—it’s essential. But if you’ve got melanin-rich skin, you already know the struggle: most sunscreens weren’t made with us in mind. They leave behind that unmistakable grayish-white cast, clog pores, irritate sensitive skin, or make you look like you just lost a battle with a bottle of baby powder. And let’s be honest—no one wants to wear sunscreen that makes them look worse before they even step into the sun.

To cut through the noise, I set out on a mission. I teamed up with Dr. Anne Beal, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of AbsoluteJOI Skincare, to learn what matters when choosing sun protection for deeper complexions. Then, I tested a lineup of top-rated products across various categories—mineral, chemical, and hybrid—looking for the best of the best. The result? A shortlist of seven sunscreens that truly deliver—no white cast, no irritation, no compromises.

Why Black and Brown Skin Still Needs Sunscreen

Let’s clear up one myth: melanin doesn’t make you immune. “People with darker skin often believe they don’t need sunscreen, but that’s not true,” says Dr. Beal. Here’s why:

• UVB rays, the ones that cause sunburn, are partially blocked by melanin—but only partially.
• UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and accelerate signs of aging, trigger hyperpigmentation, and can lead to skin cancer. Melanin doesn’t stop them.
• Blue light (from screens and the sun) contributes to skin damage and discoloration—especially in darker skin tones.

Most mineral sunscreens offer the best protection against UVA, UVB, and blue light. But they tend to leave a chalky residue, which shows up even more starkly on dark skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb better but may irritate sensitive skin or fall short on blue light protection. The key, Dr. Beal emphasizes, is finding the right fit—and wearing it every day.

What I Looked For: The “Melanin-Approved” Criteria

Every product I tested had to check these boxes:

1. Zero white cast: No ashy finish, no blending forever.
2. Good texture: Lightweight, breathable, and fast-absorbing.
3. Reliable protection: SPF 30 or higher with broad-spectrum coverage.
4. Skin comfort: No breakouts, itchiness, or greasy residue.

Bonus points if it layered well under makeup or added hydration.

The 7 Sunscreens That Earned Their Spot

After weeks of daily wear, outdoor workouts, makeup layering, and sweat tests, here are the MVPs:

1. Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30

• Why it stands out: It’s exactly what it promises—formulated for Black skin, with zero cast and all-day moisture.
• Best for: Dry to normal skin, especially if you want one step instead of moisturizer + SPF.
• Texture: Rich but absorbent. Works great alone or under makeup.

2. AbsoluteJOI Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40

• Why it stands out: Created by Dr. Beal herself, this hybrid formula blends mineral and chemical filters. It’s smooth, sheer, and packed with antioxidants.
• Best for: Sensitive skin, aging concerns, and those who want skincare + SPF in one.
• Texture: Lightweight cream, very soothing.

3. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

• Why it stands out: A clear gel that feels like a primer. No color, no scent, no cast—just invisible protection.
• Best for: Oily or combination skin; under makeup.
• Texture: Silky, weightless, matte finish.

4. Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor SPF 30

• Why it stands out: Lightweight, hydrating, and designed for deep skin tones. Rihanna really did her homework.
• Best for: Combo skin, glow lovers, or those who want skincare benefits.
• Texture: Creamy but not heavy, with a dewy finish.

5. CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30

• Why it stands out: Affordable mineral formula with a tint that blends well with brown skin. It’s rare to find mineral and melanin-compatible in one.
• Best for: Everyday wear on a budget; sensitive skin.
• Texture: Slightly thicker, but blendable and breathable.

6. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 SPF 50+

• Why it stands out: French pharmacy favorite that delivers serious protection without the cast. Great for high-sun exposure.
• Best for: Active days, travel, acne-prone skin.
• Texture: Fluid and fast-absorbing; dries down clean.

7. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection SPF 50 (Tinted)

• Why it stands out: Tinted mineral formula that targets both UV and blue light. Bonus: It’s water-resistant and reef-safe.
• Best for: Outdoors, workouts, screen-heavy days.
• Texture: Creamy and a bit dewy—ideal for dry skin.

The Bottom Line: Protection Without Compromise

The days of settling for sunscreens that ghost, sting, or suffocate your skin are over. Whether you lean mineral or chemical, want skincare benefits or simple coverage, there are options that understand what deeper skin needs. The seven listed here prove you don’t have to choose between health and aesthetics.

Wearing sunscreen daily is more than a skincare step—it’s a radical act of self-care. It means preserving your skin’s integrity, protecting against long-term damage, and unapologetically demanding products that work for you. It means saying no to ashiness, and yes to glow. No to myths, and yes to science. No to one-size-fits-all, and yes to what your melanin deserves.

So, whether you’re beach-bound, commuting, brunching, or just doom-scrolling under fluorescent lights—put on your SPF. Reapply. Stay consistent. And shine on, sans white cast.

What are your favorite melanin-friendly sunscreens? Drop your ride-or-die picks below—I’m always looking for the next best thing.

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