How Many Times Do We Have To Go Through This? Yes, You Need Sunscreen To Protect Your Brown Skin

Fun in the sun is something that all Latinxs are familiar with. Whether it’s hanging out at the beach, un asado, or helping their abuela with her garden, being exposed to the sun and its elements is a daily occurrence. There’s no escaping the power of the sun, which comes in the form of UVA and UVB rays, making it crucial to protect your skin.

Most folks typically grab a bottle of sunscreen, apply it, and don’t think about it again. Unfortunately, that’s not enough. Not only should people be reapplying sunscreen, but they also need to know what the numbers on the bottle means. Given that we naturally process melanin in our skin, there’s a misconception among our communities that we won’t burn. But that is a myth that needs to be debunked. 

Not all sun rays hit the same, which is why UVA and UVB rays both need to be taken into account

Those UVA and UVB rays don’t care how much melanin you have or don’t have; they are consistently working overtime to break past the skin’s barriers. And they are to blame for the visible signs of sun damage and manchas that appear on Latinx skin later in life. 

UVA and UVB are invisible forms of electromagnetic radiation from the sun. UVA makes up 95% of radiation reaching Earth and penetrates deeply, causing premature aging and some cancers. UVB comprises the remaining 5%, is more potent, and while less deeply penetrating, can damage skin cells and cause mutations like melanoma. Both can damage skin unnoticed, hence the need for sun protection even on cloudy days.

Dr. Bertha Baum, a board-certified dermatologist, tells Healthy Vibras, “UVA and UVB rays don’t just cause sunburn; they deeply impact skin structure over time. UVA rays, in particular, penetrate deeper and break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and premature aging.”

Despite all the scientific evidence debunking the myth of darker skin tones skipping sun protection, people still want to test the sun

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“It’s a widespread myth, but the truth is all skin tones need sun protection,” Baum explains.

The Neutrogena partner continues, “Melanin does offer some natural defense, but not enough to fully prevent sun damage. In fact, people with darker skin can still develop skin cancer, and it’s often diagnosed later, when it’s more serious, because of this false sense of protection.”

The Colombian dermatologist adds, “Beyond cancer, UV rays can trigger hyperpigmentation and dark spots that are harder to treat in melanin-rich skin. So sunscreen is just as important for darker skin, not only to protect health but also to maintain even skin tone.”

Hyperpigmentation and melasma are concerns within the Latinx community. We may have seen our tías or abuelas’ dark patches of skin later in life due to the lack of sun protection over the years—all things that are preventable when you take proper precautions.  

“For Latino/Latinx individuals, hyperpigmentation and melasma are common struggles, and sun exposure worsens both significantly. Even a few minutes of unprotected sun can make discoloration darker and harder to treat,” she asserts.

Baum adds, “So sun protection isn’t just about avoiding cancer, it’s also a key step in preserving youthful, even-toned skin.”

While SPF is the main way many of us protect ourselves from sun damage, there are plenty of ways to curb the effects of UVA and UVB rays

For many, grabbing a bottle of sunscreen is the extent of their sun protection methodology. Baum explains that it’s not enough, especially if you’re not reading the sunscreen label.

“While SPF is important, it only measures protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. To be fully protected, especially in intense sun or during outdoor activities, you want to look for ‘broad-spectrum’ coverage on the label, which means it also blocks UVA rays that penetrate deeper and accelerate aging and skin damage,” Baum explains.

She also notes, “Choose water-resistant formulas if you’re sweating, swimming, or spending extended time outdoors.”

Her advice for kids? Baum suggests using “mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium” as they can be effective and gentle. She’s also big on reapplying every two hours, especially “after sweating or swimming.”

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“One that I’ve been recommending recently is the NEW Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Mineral Face Liquid Sunscreen SPF 70. This one is not only broad-spectrum, but it layers beautifully under makeup and provides advanced protection that won’t clog pores or leave a white cast,” she tells Healthy Vibras.

In addition to using the right kind of sunscreen and reapplying it, she suggests looking into clothing with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) and other items that will block out the sun.

“Sunscreen is essential, but daily habits make a big difference, too. In many Latinx cultures, there’s already a tradition of using wide-brimmed hats, umbrellas, and staying in the shade during peak sun hours; those are great practices to continue and pass on,” Baum says. 

The Colombiana also recommends enjoying outdoor activities when the sun isn’t at its hottest point. “Light, long-sleeved clothing with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) is another smart option, especially during family gatherings or outings. And try to plan outdoor time before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. when the sun isn’t as strong. Making sun protection part of our daily routine, not just beach days, helps protect our families year-round.”