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best sunscreens for dark skin in 2022
Courtesy of Sephora/Ulta/Amazon

The 19 Best Sunscreens for Dark Skin That Are Practically Invisible

These expert-approved formulas won't leave behind a white cast.

By Madge Maril and Tiffany Dodson

You've heard it countess times before: Sunscreen is meant for every day wear. But the fact is, not all formulas are optimal for every skin tone—which is why keeping a short list of the best sunscreens for darker skin tones is key. Whether chemical or mineral, these beloved sunscreens seamlessly disappear once they're rubbed in, with little to no effort.

"When formulated incorrectly, opaque ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide can cause a white cast," Michelle Henry, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Medical College, says. Rather than go without SPF entirely, Henry recommends looking for formulas that include micronized versions of their key ingredients, or incorporate the addition of masking pigments to avoid a ghostly cast.

Shop the Best Sunscreens for Darker Skin Tones

  • Broad Spectrum SPF 30

    Best All-Around SPF

    Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

    $16 at Ulta Beauty
    Read more
  • No Shade Sunscreen Oil

    Best Sunscreen Oil

    Mele No Shade Sunscreen Oil

    Read more
  • Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint

    Best Tinted SPF for Combination Skin

    CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint

    Read more
  • Hydra Vizor SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer

    Best Refillable Sunscreen

    Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer

    Read more
  • Golden Rays Sunscreen SPF 50+

    Best Celebrity-Approved SPF

    Kinlò Golden Rays Sunscreen SPF 50+

    Read more

Of course, we also recommend keeping an eye out for the right level of broad-spectrum sun protection and when it's time to re-up. "I recommend SPF 30 for daily use and SPF 50 whenever you are outside for more than an hour. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours," says Henry.

To make it seamless for you to keep your skin protected from the elements, we've pulled together a few dermatologist- and editor-approved sunscreen picks from beloved Black-owned and tried-and-true brands, like Black Girl Sunscreen, EltaMD, and Fenty Skin, that are perfect for melanin-rich skin.

Best All-Around SPF

Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Best All-Around SPF

Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

$16 at Ulta Beauty
Credit: Ulta
Pros
  • Hydrating
Cons

    Henry recommends Black Girl Sunscreen to her clients, which is a culty among shoppers who've looked high and low for SPF that genuinely disappears once it's applied to deeper skin tones. Plus, this tube has a vegan, fragrance-free formula that works for both face and body, making it super versatile.

    One satisfied customer writes:

    "My review is the only one you need to read! While everyones skin is different, from my perspective , this sunscreen is perfect! No white cast , feels amazing on my skin, just 10/10! (Again everyone is different, but I really love it!)" —Ty

    Key ingredients:Avobenzone (3%), jojoba, cacao, and avocado oils
    Pros
    • Absorbs quickly
    Cons
    • May not be ideal for those who prefer a more traditional sunscreen formula

    Not a fan of how sunscreen feels on your face? Consider adding an oil to your daily regimen instead. Mele's lightweight SPF 30 formula is created specifically for melanin-rich skin, and is made without alcohol, mineral oil, or parabens.

    One satisfied customer writes:

    "Echoing what many other reviews have shared, this oil based sunscreen just melts right into your skin. A little goes a long way and the light scent is very nice and dissipates quickly. How is it possible for an oil to not be greasy at all? Honestly, I was sold before I ever even applied the sunscreen because the bottle is so aesthetically pleasing and smartly designed. It just looks nice sitting on the counter." —Alexis

    Key ingredients:Avobenzone (3%), octinoxate (7.49%)
    Best Tinted SPF for Combination Skin

    CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint

    Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint
    Best Tinted SPF for Combination Skin

    CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Sheer Tint

    Credit: Ulta
    Pros
    • Hydrating
    Cons

      For an expert-approved mineral option, Henry also suggests CeraVe's tinted sunscreen, which offers lightweight SPF 30 protection and features a subtle tint to even your skin tone. And since it's oil-free, lightweight, and contains niacinamide, it's also great for combination skin.

      One satisfied customer writes:

      "I bought this product last summer and it has been great! I am not a make-up person because of my oily and prone to acne skin so this tinted sunscreen does it for me! I want to buy this for my Mom, Aunt and whoever else—highly recommend!" —Iris

      Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
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      Best Refillable Sunscreen

      Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer

      Hydra Vizor SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer
      Best Refillable Sunscreen

      Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer

      Pros
      • Vegan
      Cons

        One of Rihanna's unofficial goals with her namesake brand Fenty Skin is make suncare glam—and effortless—for all skin tones and types. Enter: The Hydra Vizor SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizer, which combines hydration and broad-spectrum protection into one easy step.

        One satisfied customer writes:

        "This is the perfect moisturizer & sunscreen for my skin. It's not oily or leave a film on my face. Perfect under makeup." —Amy O.

        Key ingredients:Kalahari melon, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, aloe, baobab
        Best Celebrity-Approved SPF

        Kinlò Golden Rays Sunscreen SPF 50+

        On Sale
        Golden Rays Sunscreen SPF 50+
        Best Celebrity-Approved SPF

        Kinlò Golden Rays Sunscreen SPF 50+

        Now 58% Off
        Credit: Kinlò
        Pros
        • Sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
        Cons

          This tinted sunscreen from tennis star Naomi Osaka's Kinlò collection, which is an every day staple in her beauty routine. "I like to keep things simple for my day-to-day makeup as I don't really wear much, but to prep for meetings and interviews, I typically use our Kinlò Golden Rays Sunscreen," she previously told Bazaar.com. "It has a slight tint, which gives me a great glow on Zoom. It also helps protect my skin against damage from blue light."

          Key ingredients:Jojoba and safflower seed oils, green tea extract
          Best Moisturizer with SPF 40

          Relevant Beauty One & Done Everyday Cream Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

          One & Done Everyday Cream Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
          Best Moisturizer with SPF 40

          Relevant Beauty One & Done Everyday Cream Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

          Now 30% Off
          Credit: Thirteen Lune
          Pros
          • Hydrating
          Cons

            Here's another moisturizer that doubles as a mineral sunscreen, from Thirteen Lune co-founder Nyakio Grieco. It also contains niacinamide, plus a blend of hard-working antioxidants, for a literal "one and done" application that covers all the skincare bases.

            One satisfied customer writes:

            "I love this One and Done face cream. It makes my skin so smooth. I love the moisture it gives. Plus I live the fact that it has SPF 40 in it for sun protection—it really is one and done. I only have to wash my face and it's that easy." —Youngatheart

            Key ingredients:Squalane, sodium hyaluronate, apple fruit extract, oat extract
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            Best SPF for Glow

            Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer with SPF 45 and Niacinamide

            Isle Glow Face Moisturizer with SPF 45 and Niacinamide
            Best SPF for Glow

            Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer with SPF 45 and Niacinamide

            Credit: Cay Skin
            Pros
            • Vegan
            Cons

              Supermodel Winnie Harlow's sun care line, Cay Skin, is made with sensitive types in mind. This glowy moisturizer contains broad-spectrum SPF 45 along with niacinamide to tone and smooth your complexion.

              One satisfied customer writes:

              "Favorite face sunscreen. Leaves a great glow, not oily." —bwilso2

              Key ingredients:Niacinamide, sea moss, hydrating nectar
              Best SPF for Oily Skin

              Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte SPF 45 Sunscreen

              Make It Matte SPF 45 Sunscreen
              Best SPF for Oily Skin

              Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Matte SPF 45 Sunscreen

              Credit: Ulta
              Pros
              • Reef-friendly
              Cons
              • Not ideal for dry skin

              If you have oily or combination skin, consider reaching for this broad-spectrum SPF 45 sunscreen from the brand that's not only fragrance-free, but also leaves behind a matte finish.

              One satisfied customer writes:

              "I love this product. It's great for oily skin and it does what it's supposed to do. Does not feel heavy on my face. I usually wait about five to 10 minutes before applying make up." —Jewels

              Key ingredients:Avobenzone (3.0%), shea butter, coconut oil
              Best SPF for Acne-Prone Skin

              EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

              UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
              Best SPF for Acne-Prone Skin

              EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

              Pros
              • Great for sensitive skin
              Cons

                With nearly 5,000 reviews and close to a five-star rating from Dermstore shoppers, Henry's next product pick for melanated skin is flanked with a serious cult following. EltaMD's UV Clear also is a great option for those with acne-prone skin, since it contains ingredients like niacinamide and lactic acid to control oil.

                One satisfied customer writes:

                "I have used this sunscreen for about four years now. It is perfect. It applies very smoothly and dries down quick. It feels more like a serum than a sunscreen. For years I dreaded applying sunscreen, but this is amazing. I have from time to time wandered away from this product, but always come back. No other sunscreen compares." —Jessica

                Key ingredients:Zinc Oxide, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants
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                Best Editor-Approved Moisturizer with SPF

                Keys Soulcare Protect Your Light Daily Moisturizer Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

                Protect Your Light Daily Moisturizer Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen
                Best Editor-Approved Moisturizer with SPF

                Keys Soulcare Protect Your Light Daily Moisturizer Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen

                Credit: Ulta
                Pros
                • Lightweight
                Cons

                  We awarded Keys Soulcare's Protect Your Light Daily Moisturizer with a 2023 Skincare Award for a reason. Not only does it apply next to invisibly, but the moisturizer also gives your skin a healthy, luminous glow once it's applied.

                  One satisfied customer writes:

                  "Great SPF 30 moisturizer! Easy to dispense! It absorbs quickly into the skin and has a lightweight feel, but yet it's very hydrating! No white cast and an amazing, clean scent!" —annac445

                  Key ingredients:Avobenzone (3.0%), squalane, niacinamide
                  Best SPF for Sensitive Skin

                  Farmacy Green Defense Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen

                  Green Defense Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen
                  Best SPF for Sensitive Skin

                  Farmacy Green Defense Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen

                  Credit: Farmacy Beauty
                  Pros
                  • Reef-safe
                  Cons

                    Over 600 beauty enthusiasts agree: This nongreasy mineral face sunscreen from Farmacy is one of the very best options for dark skin. In addition to UV rays, the sunscreen also helps protect against blue light while being clean and reef-safe.

                    One satisfied customer writes:

                    "I don't know if sunscreens can get any better than this. I have tried a lot of zinc based sunscreens and they often sit on my skin in a noticeable way, makes me break out or feels too greasy. Green Defense is an awesome product that I use at the end of my skincare routine. It just adds moisture to my skin (I'm dry), feels great, sits well and doesRead more about review stating Perfect on my skin not affect the way my makeup goes on. Works very well." —Tricia F.

                    Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, moringa oleifera leaf water, moringa oleifera seed extract
                    Best Tinted SPF

                    UnSun Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 30

                    Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 30
                    Best Tinted SPF

                    UnSun Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 30

                    Credit: Amazon
                    Pros
                    • Hydrating
                    Cons

                      This tinted mineral sunscreen from UnSun Cosmetics is created with darker tones in mind. It also works well as a primer and color-corrector, in addition to being water-resistant for up to 80 minutes per wear.

                      One satisfied customer writes:

                      "I give this product five stars. I feel so lucky to have found it. Purchased it in a light color for winter and medium for summer. A little goes a long way. I apply with my fingertips and the finish is amazing. Leaves the tiniest bit of color and is very moisturizing. I often use it with a drop of tinted moisturizer mixed in it and the effect is beautiful. It’s also a gorgeous base for foundation. It’s a little pricey but well worth it!" —Peggymag

                      Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, safflower seed oil, beeswax, beet root extract
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                      Most Viral SPF

                      Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

                      Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
                      Most Viral SPF

                      Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

                      Pros
                      • Oil-free
                      Cons

                        Beauty editors and enthusiasts swear by Unseen Sunscreen from Supergoop!, since it not only rubs in invisibly, but is also oil-free and leaves behind a soft, velvety texture.

                        One satisfied customer writes:

                        "This is my favorite face sunscreen. It is super lightweight and doesn’t leave any residue. I love how it is clear too!" —Nancy

                        Key ingredients:Avobenzone (3%), red algae, frankincense, meadow foam seed complex
                        Best SPF for K-Beauty Lovers

                        Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50

                        Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50
                        Best SPF for K-Beauty Lovers

                        Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50

                        Credit: Glow Recipe
                        Pros
                        • Great for sensitive skin
                        Cons

                          If you're a fan of Glow Recipe's K-Beauty-inspired watermelon-based skincare collection, consider adding this SPF from the brand to your range of essentials. Not only is it optimized for a wide range of skin tones, but it also features ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to soothe and plump skin.

                          One satisfied customer writes:

                          "This sunscreen feels so light! Also, being a woman of color ,it doesn't leave me looking ashy. It still gives me that healthy looking glow!" —Shreill H.

                          Key ingredients:Mineral and chemical filters, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, aloe, watermelon
                          Best SPF for Mature Skin

                          Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Broad Spectrum Suncreen SPF 30

                          All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Broad Spectrum Suncreen SPF 30
                          Best SPF for Mature Skin

                          Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare All-Physical Lightweight Wrinkle Defense Broad Spectrum Suncreen SPF 30

                          Pros
                          • Oil-free
                          • Reef-safe
                          Cons

                            This featherweight mineral SPF from Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare effortlessly melts into all skin tones, thanks to its transparent, micronized zinc oxide formula.

                            One satisfied customer writes:

                            "I’ve used this product for 3 weeks and it is amazing. No white cast. The best thing about this product is that I have acne prone skin and over the last 3 weeks my skin has been completely clear. Nothing else has changed except for me using this. It’s like a miracle. Very pleased with my purchase." —SB99

                            Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, bearberry, sea buckthorn, lingonberry, and ferulic acid
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                            Best Reef-Safe SPF

                            Kinship Self Reflect Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 32

                            Self Reflect Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 32
                            Best Reef-Safe SPF

                            Kinship Self Reflect Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 32

                            Credit: Credo Beauty
                            Pros
                            • Helps prime skin for makeup
                            Cons

                              Over 400 Credo Beauty shoppers and counting love using this moisturizing, reef-safe mineral sunscreen. In addition to providing broad-spectrum protection, it also uses a plant-based probiotic to fortify the skin's barrier.

                              One satisfied customer writes:

                              "I use this sunscreen every single day! It comes out the tube slightly tinted but goes on clear. Absolutely zero white cast. I've wasted so much money trying other sunscreens claiming to have no white cast but this is the real deal. Not too oily, just enough to give me some moisture and a nice glow (my mom even asked what makeup I was wearing and sRead more about I use this sunscreen every single day!he was shocked when I told her it was just sunscreen). This is a must!" —SKW

                              Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, red raspberry seed oil, licorice root extract, apple fruit extract
                              Best SPF Serum

                              EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35

                              Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
                              Best SPF Serum

                              EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35

                              Now 44% Off
                              Pros
                              • Lightweight
                              Cons
                              • May not be ideal for those who prefer a more traditional sunscreen formula

                              Created by tennis pro Venus Williams, this fragrance-free sunscreen applies like your go-to serum, and contains 25 percent zinc oxide. Added naturally-derived skin soothers like prickly pear makes it a dream to wear every day.

                              One satisfied customer writes:

                              "Loved this instantly! I haven't put it through it's paces in a sweaty outdoor workout or anything, but it's a lovely, radiant, easy daily sunscreen for work. Really pleased." —Rose

                              Key ingredients:Zinc oxide, orange peel oil, orange peel extract, coconut fruit extract
                              Best Brightening SPF

                              Bolden SPF 30 Brightening Moisturizer

                              SPF 30 Brightening Moisturizer
                              Best Brightening SPF

                              Bolden SPF 30 Brightening Moisturizer

                              Pros
                              • Features vitamin C
                              Cons

                                An equal part moisturizer and sunscreen, Bolden Skincare's fan-favorite SPF 30 formula includes brightening vitamin C and deeply moisturizing squalane to improve skin's texture and tone over time.

                                One satisfied customer writes:

                                "This is my favorite moisturizer. It makes my skin so soft and the glow is life changing." —Tracy H.

                                Key ingredients:Safflower oil, squalane, vitamin C
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                                Best SPF for Dry Skin

                                Laneige Hydro UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

                                Hydro UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
                                Best SPF for Dry Skin

                                Laneige Hydro UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

                                Credit: Sephora
                                Pros
                                • Dermatologist-tested
                                Cons

                                  This hydrating, hypoallergenic SPF is ideal for both darker skin tones and dry skin, and contains centella asiatica to help soothe irritation that might occur after prolonged sun exposure.

                                  One satisfied customer writes:

                                  "No white cast. Not heavy or greasy. Definitely hydrating!" —941Guerrero

                                  Key ingredients:Centella asiatica, hydro ionized mineral water

                                  Meet the Experts

                                  best sunscreens for dark skin 2023
                                  • Michelle Henry is a board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Medical College.
                                  Headshot of Madge Maril
                                  Madge Maril
                                  Madge Maril is a writer, editor, and creative covering beauty at Harper's Bazaar and The Zoe Report. She received a BFA in Electronic Media and a Certificate in Creative Writing through University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music. You can find her on Instagram at @madgemaril, or in real life somewhere in a thrift store.
                                  Lettermark
                                  Associate Beauty Commerce Editor

                                  Tiffany Dodson is currently the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she specializes in trend forecasting, building relationships with major and emerging brands, and crafting shopping stories—from holiday gift guides to product road tests. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in outlets like SELF, Bustle, and Teen Vogue, and she's been quoted as a commerce and beauty expert in publications and platforms like The Business of Fashion and NPR’s Life Kit podcast.

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