Sunscreen in Skin of Colour- More Than Cosmetic, It’s Clinical

In dermatology, one of the most persistent myths we encounter is the belief that individuals with skin of colour are naturally protected from the harmful effects of the sun. While it’s true that higher levels of melanin in darker skin offer some photoprotection (estimated to be equivalent to an SPF of around 13) this is far from complete, and the consequences of underestimating UV exposure are significant.

The skin is exposed daily to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily in the form of UVA and UVB rays, which each exert distinct but damaging effects. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and play a direct role in the development of skin cancers. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the dermis, driving photoageing, pigmentation disorders and DNA damage that contributes to skin cancer. UVA is also more insidious, it is constant year-round and can penetrate through clouds and glass, meaning exposure occurs even on overcast days or while indoors near windows.

For skin of colour, the clinical impact of sun exposure often manifests differently. Rather than sunburn, the more common presentations include persistent hyperpigmentation, melasma, and post-inflammatory pigmentary changes. These are among the most frequent skin complaints in skin of colour, and they are all exacerbated by UV and visible light exposure.

Crucially, skin cancer is not rare in skin of colour, it’s often under-recognised and diagnosed later, leading to poorer outcomes. The most common type of melanoma in darker skin is acral lentiginous melanoma, which typically appears on the palms, soles and nail beds, areas not commonly exposed to the sun. However, ultraviolet light is still a known co-factor in skin carcinogenesis and the lack of consistent sunscreen use in skin of colour contributes to delayed detection and worse prognoses.

A population-wide lack of awareness and underrepresentation in skincare formulation have left many people with deeper skin tones underserved. Historically, sunscreens have left a white or grey cast, felt greasy or interacted poorly with melanin-rich skin, particularly under makeup. This has understandably led to poor adherence.

As a consultant dermatologist, I have combined  my expertise and love for skin care to develop a product for all skin types keeping busy lifestyles in mind. 

I’ve spent the last 2 years developing a product that combines priming, moisturising and SPF in one inclusive, cosmetically elegant step; free from parabens, silicones, PEGs and with active ingredients scientifically proven to improve skin health. 

We are still perfecting the formula and I’m inviting the Tones of Beauty community who share a vision of inclusive, evidence-based skincare to be the first to try it when we launch. 

Join our email list to get early access, behind-the-scenes updates and an exclusive discount at launch: www.skindrwedad.com

In a world where beauty norms are evolving, it’s time for skincare to do the same. Because protection isn’t optional and your skin deserves skincare developed with clinical insight and care.

Author- Dr Wedad Abdelrahman, Consultant Dermatologist (Skin London By Dr Wedad).

Source: Author- Dr Wedad Abdelrahman, Consultant Dermatologist (Skin London By Dr Wedad).