Find your invisible shield that won’t leave a white cast behind
Finding the best sunscreen for dark skin can transform your sun protection routine from a chore into a joy. And for darker skin tones, this means one that looks invisible. Formulas of the past have got a bad rap for leaving a white cast behind, but sun tech has come on in leaps and bounds to provide a wide range of options that leaves skin glowing, rather than grey.
As well as serving up a fabulous finish, some of them come with extra skincare benefits and are impressively fast-absorbing to make adding that extra step a seamless addition. We’ll be delving deeper into why sunscreen is a staple for any skin tone and provide our edit of tried-and-tested invisible sunscreens to offer some valuable add-to-cart inspo.
Does darker skin need sunscreen?
Yes. Although people with dark or black skin burn less easily than lighter skin tones, skin can still burn, which may result in it feeling itchy or tender rather than changing colour. And, while the risk of skin cancer and non-melanoma skin cancers is lower than those with fair skin, skin cancers like squamous cell carcinomas and basal cell carcinomas are more common.
What’s more, people with darker skin are more likely to have skin cancer diagnosed late, making it harder to treat successfully.
Sunscreen can also help to prevent the cumulative damage that builds up in our skin which causes photoaging. Whilst darker skin tones don’t develop wrinkles in the same way as those with fairer skin, they can still develop an uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation and an uneven skin tone can be caused by sun exposure and can both cause premature skin ageing.
As well as wearing protective clothing and spending time in the shade (particularly between 11am and 3pm), using a sunscreen of at least SPF30 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays is an essential part of a good sun care routine. Sunscreen is for everyone and it should work with your skin tone, no matter how deep it is.
What’s the best sunscreen for dark skin tones?
"When looking at the best sunscreen, trial a few options," advises Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, advanced cosmetic doctor and founder and medical director of the Adonia Medical Clinic. "Take your time when trialling some brands as initially there may be a faint white cast that usually settles in one to two minutes." If it doesn’t clump and settles after two minutes, you’re onto a winner.
Choosing the right one for your skin type is also key. "Hydrating if you have dry skin and mattifying if you have oily or combination skin," Dr Ejikeme recommends.
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes. The majority have a PAO (period after opening) symbol on their packaging showing how long they can be used for after opening. This usually ranges from 12 to 18 and 24 months, so make sure to check the label before using the same one you did last year.
From ones with added skincare benefits to formulas that feel light as air, explore some of the best sunscreen for sensitive skin, oily skin and beyond – all available at Boots.
Our pick of the best sunscreens for dark skin from Boots
Best face sunscreen for oily skin
To add some matte magic to your skincare routine, try Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV Anti-Dark Spots and Anti-Pollution Face Fluid SPF50+
• Size: 40ml
• Non-comedogenic
• Fragrance-free
• Cruelty-free
Worried about a greasy film? This lightweight sunscreen will help alleviate those fears. Its fluid-like texture melts into skin without a trace, while ingredients like hydrating hyaluronic acid and nourishing vitamin E leave your complexion feeling soft and looking smooth. Layering has never felt so featherlight.
Best sunscreen for sensitive skin
For gentle protection for your skin, try: Eucerin Sun Face Hydro Protect Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50+
• Size: 50ml
• Fragrance-free
• Non-comedogenic
• Hydrating formula
If you have sensitive skin, this sunscreen is an excellent choice. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly, leaving no residue behind, while providing high-level protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Infused with hyaluronic acid, this sunscreen keeps skin hydrated throughout the day, and doesn't clog pores or irritate sensitive skin! Add it to your routine for effective, invisible sun protection that feels as good as it looks.
Best face sunscreen for dry skin
For some dewy defence if you have dry skin, try: Fenty Skin Hydro Vizor Invisible Moisturizer SPF30
• Size: 50ml
• Oil-free
• Non-comedogenic
• Vegan*
• Refillable
For style and substance, Fenty Skin is increasingly becoming our go-to. And when it comes to SPF, this buy offers bags of both. Not only is the sleek, lilac-hued bottle refillable, but its pink tint gives skin a subtle blurring effect, while the moisturising formula hydrates without the heaviness.
Best face sunscreen for combination skin
For combination care, try: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF30.
• Size: 20ml
• Fragrance free
Leaving a velvety-soft finish on the skin without any greasiness, this Supergoop! SPF is beloved for a reason. The natural finish formula also acts as a fab make-up primer.
Best sunscreen for break-out prone skin
To help protect against environmental stresses, try: Avène Ultra Fluid Invisible SPF 50.
• Size: 50ml
• Fragrance free
• Water-resistant
Developed with dermatologists, Avène’s Invisible SPF 50 is an ultra-light formula featuring the brand’s famous thermal spring water to help soothe, soften and calm the skin. Alongside protecting against UV rays, this SPF also helps protect against blue light and makes an excellent base for make-up.
Best sunscreen for water resistance
For some splash-proof sun protection, try: Hawaiian Tropic Glowing Protection Sunscreen Dry Oil SPF 30.
• Size: 200ml
• High UVA/UVB Protection
• Water resistant
• Tropical scent ideal for those with breakout-prone skin
Indulge your senses with Hawaiian Tropic Protective Dry Spray Oil Mist, enriched with coconut and argan oil. This SPF 30 spray offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and a luxurious, tropical scent that transports you to a sunny paradise. Its dry oil formula absorbs quickly, leaving your skin with a beautiful glow without any greasy residue. Perfect for water activities, this water-resistant spray ensures you stay protected while enjoying your time in the sun.
Best fast-absorbing sunscreen for body
If you want to absorb and go, try: Soltan Clear & Cool Protect Suncare Mist SPF 30.
• Size: 200ml
• Water-resistant
• Vegan* & cruelty-free
If you hate the feeling of anything too heavy, you’ll love this mist from Soltan. Cooling, refreshing and most importantly, protective, this SPF absorbs without a trace. What’s more, the added tropical fragrance will transport you straight to a sunny beach far, far away.
Best-scented sunscreen for body
For a scent-sational find, try Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance Body Spray SPF 50.
• Size: 200ml
If you’re looking for a spritz of summer, with a touch of gorgeous radiance, try this. Not only does it cocoon skin with notes of leite de coco, solar tuberose and warm sand, this summer-in-a-bottle scent adds a natural sheen to the skin – while helping protect it from the sun’s rays, of course. Why not make the scent even stronger with the matching perfume mist?
Best sunscreen for children
Make sun protection child’s play. Try: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Uvmune 400 Dermo-Paediatrics Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid SPF 50+
• Size: 50ml
• Ultra-light fluid
• Hypoallergenic
• Water resistant
Specially formulated for children's sensitive skin, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Uvmune 400 offers high-level SPF 50+ protection against UVA and UVB rays. This ultra-light fluid absorbs quickly without leaving any white residue. Enriched with La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water, it provides a soothing effect, while its hypoallergenic formula ensures it's safe for delicate skin. Perfect for daily use and outdoor activities, this sunscreen is water-resistant, making it ideal for kids on the go.
Whether you’re having a barbeque in your garden or simply enjoying a sunny day out, remember that sunscreen is your skin’s best friend. Finding the best sunscreen for dark skin tones is all about finding one that melts into the skin with no white cast. Shop our full sun care range here.
