Why Sunscreen is for Everyone: From the Beach to the Block, My SPF Journey

I remember it like it was yesterday—my first "real" sunburn. My best friend and I spent all day at the beach, the sun blazing down on us. Back then, there was this belief circulating in Black communities (and beyond) that people with melenated skin didn’t need sunscreen. Little did I know that my skin was still at risk, even though it wasn’t turning bright red like my fair-skinned friends my skin felt raw and after a few days my skin peeled.

Fast forward a few years, and I started noticing some freckles on my cheeks. They weren’t skin tags, moles or scars but skin freckles that seemed more pigmented. That was my wake-up call. As I dove into my research, both as a curious consumer and an esthetician, I discovered the truth about sunscreen—and realized I had been doing my skin a disservice for years. Let me take you on the journey of how I learned just how important broad-spectrum SPF is for everyone—regardless of skin type, tone, or how much time you spend outdoors.

The Story of SPF: A Quick History

Sunscreen, believe it or not, has been around for centuries, though the versions we have now are more sophisticated. Ancient Egyptians used ingredients like rice bran and jasmine to protect their skin from the sun, though they didn’t fully understand UV rays yet.

In the 1930s, the first commercially available sunscreen was developed by an Austrian scientist who ended up severely burning himself while climbing in the Alps. A few years later, Benjamin Green, a pharmacist and World War II soldier, created a sunscreen to help soldiers in the Pacific stay protected under intense sun exposure. His formula was the foundation of what later became Coppertone.

But back then, sunscreen was more about preventing sunburn for fair skin. There wasn’t much talk about sun damage for people of color, and the formulas weren’t designed to blend well with darker skin tones. This gap in the narrative left many—myself included—thinking SPF wasn’t a priority unless you were prone to sunburn.

Why You Need Broad-Spectrum SPF (No Matter Your Skin Tone)

So what does sunscreen do? And why is broad-spectrum SPF a must for everyone?

UV rays from the sun come in two forms: UVA and UVB. UVB rays are what cause sunburn, and they’re typically more intense in the summer. UVA rays, however, are the sneaky ones—they penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation (hello, dark spots!). Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both types of rays, which is why it’s so essential.

Here’s where the myth about melanin comes in. It’s true that darker skin has more melanin, which provides some natural protection (about SPF 13). But that’s nowhere near enough. Just because you’re not burning doesn’t mean the sun isn’t damaging your skin. In fact, people with darker skin are more prone to hyperpigmentation, and sun exposure can make that worse.

UV damage doesn’t discriminate. Whether your skin is fair, deep, or somewhere in between, the sun’s rays can cause issues—from dark spots and fine lines to skin cancer.

This is a picture of a truck driver - and the damage prolonged exposure to the sun did to the left side of his face.

Real Talk: Why I Tell Every Client “You Need SPF”

Let me tell you about one of my clients. She came to me frustrated with dark spots that wouldn’t go away, no matter how many treatments and products she tried. After a quick consultation, I realized she wasn’t using sunscreen consistently. She thought she didn’t need it because her skin was naturally brown. The truth is, without protection, her skin was re-darkening after every treatment.

We started her on a simple regimen that included a broad-spectrum SPF, and a few months later, she couldn’t believe the difference. Her skin had cleared up, the dark spots had lightened, and she finally felt like she had control over her complexion again.

As an esthetician, it’s my job to educate my clients about protecting their skin beyond just treatments. Skincare is about consistency—and sunscreen is the key to preventing damage in the first place.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin

The beauty industry has come a long way, and now there are sunscreens formulated for all skin tones. No more white casts that make you feel like a ghost in your selfies!

Here’s what I recommend:

• For Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Look for lightweight, oil-free, or gel-based SPFs that won’t clog pores.

• For Dry Skin: Choose a hydrating SPF that includes moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid.

• For Darker Skin Tones: Opt for mineral sunscreens that are specifically designed to blend well without leaving a residue. Tinted sunscreens are great, too, as they can double as a light foundation.

  
  

And here’s the golden rule—apply enough. You need about a nickel-sized amount for your face and don’t forget your neck and ears. If you're outside, reapply every two hours.

The Bottom Line: Sunscreen for Everyone

Protecting your skin is one of the best forms of self-care, and it’s non-negotiable. Whether you’re in the city, spending your day indoors, or lounging on the beach, those UV rays are working hard to sneak into your skin. Broad-spectrum SPF is your best defense, and it’s something I never skip, no matter the season.

And if you’re not sure which sunscreen is right for you or how to incorporate it into your skincare routine, I’m here to help. Book a consultation with me at Innate Allure, and we’ll find the perfect SPF that suits your skin, protects it, and keeps it glowing for years to come.

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