The Ultimate List of Brown Girl-Approved Sunscreens That Don't Leave a White Cast
A deeply harmful skin-care misconception that just won't die is that those with darker complexions don't need to wear daily sun protection. Now melanin may be magical, but it isn't sun-resistant. No matter your skin tone, you should be wearing sunscreen every day — even when it's cloudy or you're staying indoors.
Frequently skipping sunscreen increases your risk for skin cancer. Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, says that even though darker skin types have some natural protection against UV light, the highest possible level is SPF 13, which is below the recommended level of SPF 30. People with darker skin may be less susceptible to skin cancer, but, Henry says, "when those with darker skin are diagnosed with skin cancer the outcomes are typically worse, likely because they are found at later stages."
In addition to increasing the risk for skin cancer, foregoing sunscreen can also worsen any existing hyperpigmentation. If you're trying to even your skin tone through treatments, what's the point if you aren't using sunscreen? You're ultimately reversing any of the dark spot-diminishing you want to happen.
Public service announcement aside, let's face it: Not all sunscreens are made the same. A lot of options on the market are not formulated with darker skin tones in mind, so they end up looking chalky. And who wants to look ghostly? Many formulas also make skin look greasy, which is also not ideal.
"One of the protective characteristics of darker skin — and the reason why we don't get that crinkly skin — is because our skin's oil-producing, [which] is going to stay younger for longer," says Alabama-based board-certified dermatologist Corey Hartman, MD.
More sunscreens that blend seamlessly on darker complexions are cropping up on the market, with formulas that keep your skin protected from the sun's rays — without any white residue in sight. These are some of the best sunscreens for dark skin tones, some of which we've tested and awarded with Best of Beauty seals, and others that dermatologists love.
This story is a part of The Melanin Edit, a platform in which Allure will explore every facet of a melanin-rich life — from the most innovative treatments for hyperpigmentation to the social and emotional realities — all while spreading Black pride.
All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
- 1/27
Elta MD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Allure's Best of Beauty-winning Elta MD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is beloved by editors and experts alike — and for very good reason. The dermatologist-approved sunscreen utilizes physical blockers (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) to protect skin from harmful UV rays.
In fact, makeup artist Delina Medhin was introduced to this sunscreen by her dermatologist. "[This is] one of my absolute favorites of all time," she says. "It plays best under makeup — a tinted moisturizer works fine. I've also never experienced any flashback issues with it."
- 2/27
Vanicream Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50
If tinted sunscreen just isn't your jam, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nkem Ugonabo, MD, based in NYC, suggests this non-tinted option from Vanicream. "Although it's a mineral sunscreen, there's no white cast with the Vanicream Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen," says Dr. Ugonabo. "In fact, it blends in very easily."
As it's fragrance-free for sensitive skin and uses zinc oxide as its only active ingredient, you can expect hours of uninterrupted protection with this sunscreen, which boasts a noncomedogenic formula for oily or acne-prone skin. It's also incredibly affordable, so you can buy multiples to store in your handbag, car, and at home.
- 3/27
Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
There's plenty to love about Ilia's Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40. The three-in-one makeup, sunscreen, and moisturizer lends new meaning to the word multitasker. The Allure 2020 Best of Beauty Award-winner comes in an impressive range of 30 shades, has moisturizing squalane and hyaluronic acid, and gives skin buildable blemish coverage while it protects.
"Having skin-care benefits in my sunscreen takes the stress out of remembering to apply this daily," says Allure's former commerce editor Nykia Spradley. Just remember to apply a traditional sunscreen underneath for maximum protection.
- 4/27
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40
The clear, gel-like Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 is great if you prefer more of a matte finish. The antioxidant-rich chemical sunscreen has scored both Best of Beauty and Readers' Choice Awards. "This is amazing for deep skin tones," says Medhin. "It also is a primer, so it helps smooth the skin and provides a grip for makeup."
- 5/27
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
The name of the product says it plainly: This sunscreen was made for Black girls. Besides the fact that it doesn't leave that dreaded white cast, Allure's staff editor Jihan Forbes particularly loves how moisturizing the sunscreen is. "Put this anywhere on your body and you get that deep feeling of a lotion, all with the benefits of SPF," she says. Her only qualm is that the tube doesn't come in a larger size. "Since you can use it all over, I would like more, please!"
- 6/27
Wander Beauty Pack Up and Glow Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
This new release is already sold out at Sephora, and here's why: "This new formula from Wander Beauty combines a high SPF factor with a big dose of vitamin C for comprehensive sun protection and skin treatment," says Dr. Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto, Canada. "It's a rare mineral sunscreen that leaves zero white cast. There's also a beautiful peachy-gold pearl to the product, so it really enhances your natural glow, while helping blur any uneven texture or tone."
The Wander Beauty Pack Up and Glow Mineral Sunscreen contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, providing two-punch protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- 7/27
Cotz Flawless Complexion Tinted Facial Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
A tinted option that practically vanishes on all skin tones, Cotz Flawless Complexion Tinted Mineral Sunscreen is made up of 20 percent active zinc oxide for maximum sun-blocking protection. According to Dr. Ugonabo, it's also super moisturizing for dry or dehydrated skin, and is both gluten and paraben-free.
"Tinted sunscreens like these ones tend to blend better in those with melanated skin, and we are learning now that they may provide even better protection for conditions like hyperpigmentation and melasma," she adds. This sensitive-skin powerhouse is also good for skin that suffers from conditions like rosacea or breakouts.
- 8/27
CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30
Regular sunscreen use isn't just something Dr. Henry stresses to her patients — it's a major part of her own daily skin-care routine. She uses CeraVe's Ultralight Moisturizer with SPF 30, which she says, "is quite moisturizing and blends into my dark skin." (Editor's note: Henry has partnered with the brand in the past.)
- 9/27
Tizo Photoceutical AM Replenish Lightly Tinted SPF 40
If tinted sunscreen makes you feel like you're wearing a full face of makeup — but you still want some coverage — Dr. Ugonabo likes the Tizo Phytoceutical AM Replenish Lightly Tinted Mineral Sunscreen for daily use. It contains antioxidants to protect the skin from free radicals produced by the sun, and also ceramides (fatty acids that help the skin retain moisture and hydration) to help soothe skin during and after exposure to the sun on hot, humid days. The light tint allows it to be worn both on its own or under makeup for heavier coverage.
- 10/27
Coola Suncare Mineral Face Sunscreen SPF 30
A favorite of Allure contributor Nikhita Mahtani, Coola's Suncare Mineral Face Sunscreen has a dreamy cucumber scent that's both refreshing and calming. "I generally have oily skin in the summer, but this sunscreen has a matte finish that easily soaks up oil without leaving me greasy and gross," she says. "It isn't tinted, so it looks white when it comes out of the tube, but you only need to rub it on for a couple of seconds before it easily absorbs into skin without leaving any residue behind."
This sunscreen has even been given the Clean at Sephora seal, meaning it's free from concerning ingredients such as phthalates, formaldehyde, or oxybenzone, so you can rest assured you're putting only the best on your face.
- 11/27
Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
Powder-based sunscreens shouldn't necessarily be your only line of UV defense, but they're definitely great for touch-ups and reapplication throughout the day. Colorscience's Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 is one of our top choices for its gentle, blendable, and tinted formula that uses hydrating hyaluronic acid and zinc oxide for SPF protection.
- 12/27
Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50
"The Paula's Choice Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid effortlessly checks off two very important steps in my daily routine: hydrating and protecting my skin," says Spradley. "The lightweight moisturizer blends in so easily to a clear, subtle sheen that makes my skin look nice and dewy, with no greasy finish like some other sunscreens leave behind."
- 13/27
Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
Not into the goopy texture of liquid sunscreen formulas? Then try switching to the Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+, which is a solid stick formula that glides on like butter and stays totally transparent on skin. This stick uses Shiseido's innovative WetForce and HeatForce technologies, which allow the formula to retain effectiveness despite heat and humidity.
- 14/27
Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
At first squeeze, the richness of Farmacy's Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen may be a bit scary. It looks like it won't blend in at all. However, the titanium dioxide and zinc oxide formula doesn't need much rubbing or body heat to melt right into skin.
Our editors can confirm the mineral SPF — spiked with antioxidants marigold and black chokeberry extract for additional environmental protection — leaves literally no whiteness behind.
- 15/27
Blue Lizard Sheer Body Lotion SPF 50
Blue Lizard's Sheer Body Lotion SPF 50 is a classic for its transparent finish and nourishing formula of hydrating hyaluronic acid, shea butter, skin-repairing antioxidants, and moisture-retaining vitamin E. This sunscreen uses broad-spectrum SPF to keep your skin guarded against UVA and UVB rays, plus, it's resistant to water and sweat for up to 80 minutes.
- 16/27
Dr. Brandt's Liquid Sun Shield Daily Brightening Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
"I literally will never go back to a thick, pasty sunscreen after trying Dr. Brandt's Liquid Sun Shield Daily Brightening Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50," says Spradley. "A few drops of the milky, mineral sunscreen melted into my skin with ease and left not one streak of ashiness or sticky residue behind." The formula is light enough to wear during the summer and still feels moisturizing in colder months.
- 17/27
Melé Dew The Most Sheer Moisturizer SPF 30
"I have tried a lot of sunscreens in my decade as a beauty editor. Most I reject after one swipe," says Allure's editor in chief Jessica Cruel. "Oily texture? Nope. White cast? No thanks. Takes forever to blend? Who has time?" One product that checks all the right boxes for Cruel is Melé's Dew The Most Sheer Moisturizer SPF 30. The product was created specifically for brown skin tones and disappears in seconds when applied.
It's laced with anti-inflammatory niacinamide and antioxidant-rich vitamin E. Cruel layers the cream over different serums, essences, and oils with no issue. "My only complaint: There's no way to subscribe [for automatic deliveries] so that I never have to suffer through a tube on empty," she says.
- 18/27
Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
Board-certified dermatologist Elyse M. Love, MD, says that her favorite is the Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen. "This mineral-only sunscreen contains a brown girl-friendly tint, providing UVA, UVB, and visible light protection," she says. Dr. Love also points out that the formula contains enzymes, which, she says, "have been shown to reverse current sun damage."
This product is also one of Dr. Hartman's favorites. "I recommend [it] all day long, not only to darker patients but patients who have oily skin," he says. "It rubs in well, and I can't think of a complaint that I've had after a patient has tried [it]." Dr. Hartman also notes that it plays well under makeup.
- 19/27
Eleven by Venus Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35
Tennis star Venus Williams partnered with Credo Beauty to create a mineral sunscreen that doesn't leave a hint of a white cast. Eleven By Venus Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35 is a reef-safe, zinc oxide-based formula that protects and hydrates skin. The formula is so good that it even earned a 2020 Best of Beauty Award.
"No matter what skin tone you are, you want your skin to look like your skin. And you don't want any layers on top," says Williams. "This [line] leaves no white cast and, of course, it's universal for every skin tone and complexion."
- 20/27
Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen
Around here, we can pretty much all agree that we're on board with anything Rihanna puts out. That includes the Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen. Although last summer's launch of the skin-care line was met with some criticism online about the products not being fragrance-free, Forbes says that she actually likes how the cream smells.
"It's kind of a sweet, fruity scent that's not overpowering," she says. "It takes minimal rubbing for it to absorb into my skin and leaves me well-protected from UV rays."
- 21/27
Sonrei Sea Clearly Gel Sunscreen SPF 50
Don't be intimidated by the thick texture of Sonrei Sea Clearly Gel Sunscreen: It glides on and melts into the skin like butter. Allure's associate news editor Gabi Thorne says she can't get enough of it. "This formula is everything I want and need it to be," she says. The vegan sunscreen is formulated with three different pollution-fighting antioxidants — ferulic acid, vitamin C, and E — that hydrate and brighten skin. It also comes in SPF 30 and 50.
- 22/27
Tula Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30
"The American Academy of Dermatology always recommends an SPF of 30 because it is clinically proven to be a sufficient amount of protection to reduce or minimize the adverse effects of sunlight," New York City board-certified dermatologist David Colbert, MD, previously told Allure.
Tula's Protect + Glow Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30 offers just the right amount of protection. Its papaya and pineapple extracts help even out hyperpigmentation, which more readily affects darker skin tones.
- 23/27
Glossier Invisible Shield SPF 35
Glossier's Invisible Shield is, hands down, one of the most Black and brown girl-friendly sunscreens on the market. Its colorless, silky texture works flawlessly on virtually all skin types and complexions and goes on completely clear. When they said invisible, they weren't kiddin'. "The satiny texture also gives my partially oily skin a subtle mattified effect, which is ideal on a balmy summer day," says Spradley.
- 24/27
Unsun Mineral Tinted Broad Spectrum Face Sunscreen SPF 30
Unsun was one of the first brands to fill the sunscreen void for darker skin, and since its launch in 2016, it has yet to disappoint. The tinted sunscreen comes in Light/Medium and Medium/Dark shade options. Unsun's hydrating ingredients like glycerin, coconut oil, and aloe leaf juice just might be the perfect middle-ground for year-round protection.
- 25/27
StriVectin Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Illuminating Cream
"I have to be careful with illuminating face products because sometimes the glow might not be a match for my skin tone," says Forbes. StriVectin's Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Illuminating Cream eliminates that concern for her. It's got super-fine shimmer particles that impart a peachy glow all over the skin.
"It really gives that 'glow-from-within' look, and the best part is that it's not messy," Forbes notes. "I never noticed little bits of shimmer on my clothes or on anything else I touch after using this."
- 26/27
Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer SPF 47 w/ Sunboost ATB
Connecticut-based board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, previously told Allure that a multitasking sunscreen with skin-care benefits makes applying SPF "pleasurable, fun, and easy to use." Josie Maran's Argan Daily Moisturizer SPF 47 w/ Sunboost ATB fits the bill with its blend of antioxidant-rich green tea for additional protection and hydrating argan and jojoba oils.
- 27/27
Clinique Sun SPF 50 Face Cream
"Oil-free is another great attribute to look for in sunscreens and moisturizers with sunscreen," says Dr. Hartman. "We want to be cognizant of the fact that the physical sunscreen is sheer, but we still have skin that's oily, that has rosacea or acne breakouts."
Anyone with these skin concerns might like Clinique's Sun SPF 50 Face Cream, which applies like a velvety moisturizer and keeps skin hydrated without clogging pores, thanks to glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, a form of hyaluronic acid.
