This archive report was first published on 28 June 2020.
By CAROL ODERO
June 28, 2020
Wearing sunscreen has become a daily habit for many of us, but the reasons behind it are often misunderstood, especially when it comes to black skin. While it's true that melanin provides some protection against the sun's rays, it's not enough to prevent skin damage and cancer.
UVA and UVB rays are the primary culprits behind skin aging and cancer. UVA rays, which account for 95% of the sun's rays, can cause hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and even certain types of skin cancer. On the other hand, UVB rays, which make up only 5% of the sun's rays, are responsible for sunburn.
Research has shown that black people need to wear sunscreen to prevent skin damage and cancer, despite their higher levels of melanin. In fact, a 2019 report found that black people are more susceptible to vitamin D deficiencies due to limited sun exposure, which can lead to a range of health problems.
The Fitzpatrick Skin Scale, a subjective measure of skin tone, categorizes skin types into six different categories. Type VI, which includes deep mahogany to espresso skin tones, is highly melanated and takes longer to burn. However, this doesn't mean that black skin is immune to sun damage and skin cancer.
So, why do black people need to wear sunscreen? The answer lies in the fact that melanin doesn't stop skin from experiencing sun damage, aging faster due to UV exposure, and turning hyperpigmented. In fact, black skin is more prone to hyperpigmentation, which can occur due to a range of factors, including eczema, breakouts, and prolonged sun exposure.
When you're prone to hyperpigmentation, it's essential to wear sunscreen to prevent further damage. But what about treatments for hyperpigmentation? Retinoids, retinol, and Retin A can help, but they make the skin sensitive to the sun, so it's crucial to use sunscreen when applying these products.
So, the next time someone tells you that black people don't need sunscreen, remember that melanin doesn't provide complete protection against the sun's rays. Wear sunscreen to keep your skin healthier and prevent skin damage and cancer.
