Do Black People use sunscreen?

[Anonymous]

I’m fairly lightskinned and I was raised with being told we as black people don’t need sun cream because the sun is for our skin for melanin top up but I’ve developed and I’ve noticed recently light patches, small tho on my legs and I thought I was going crazy but I think they’re obvious. Probably a shade or two light from my normal skin colour. I’m 22 Does anyone who is fairly light skinned struggle with the same problem?

[Anonymous]

There has been studies on this and they show most black people and poc in general don’t wear sunscreen. The recommendation is they do though. All people, regardless of skintone and race are recommended to use sunscreen. At least spf 30. Black people have ”natural” spf because of their high melanin, that’s true, but it’s only up to spf 13 which isn’t really a lot considering you’re recommended 30 or higher. And the ”natural spf” will be lower the lighter your skin is so if you’re lightskinned your body’s own protection will be even lower. More black people die from skin cancer than white people, despite less black people getting skin cancer. That’s because many of them think they can’t get it, or just won’t get it, so they don’t look for signs of skin cancer or go to see a doctor about their skin issues until it’s too late.

[laurieluvsit]

I have no idea why I laughed so hard when I read your question... lol

I know you are serious, it really is a good question :)

[RotOfStars]

I was raised being told to wear sunscreen and I have gotten sunburn before. It's not as bad as white people, not by a mile. But it's mildly uncomfortable for a day or two.

Sunscreen is not only for white people, all people can use it. The necessity is just greater for white people. Black people can handle more sun longer without it. But I would be safe on a beach day and wear sunscreen.

[NamerOfStars]

If they're smart, yes. Their SPF needs are lowur, but that doesn't mean they don't exist. A doctor could tell you specifics far better than I could. I'm Irish; the stuff *I* need is written in scientific notation.

[caitycat21]

YES. Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate? Sure melanin can help you but you should definitely be putting sun screen on too

[caitycat21]

Even if you’re light skin you probably get darker in the summer? That’s what happens to me usually - this years different though since I’m spending less time in the sun but sun screen is essential to wear even if it’s not hot because the suns UV rays will still effect your skin

[Anonymous]

Your light skin you got white or some other non black in you so you'll need it.

[Asker]

? I’m not mixed raced I’m fully black but lightskinned, I think what you’re talking about is mixed raced

[Lyndsielee666]

You can still get skin cancer regardless

[Asker]

I’m a little confused how skin cancer has gone into this but you’re saying that you can catch either way whether you don’t or do use the cream?

[Lyndsielee666]

I didn’t fully read your question honestly but you do need to be wearing sunscreen! Keep an eye on the light spots and make sure they don’t grow or start looking different and please wear sunscreen😭😭

[Asker]

Thanks and my apologies about the topic of skin cancer. It is actually brought up a lot in topics like this but yeaa, note taken. Thank you

[Lyndsielee666]

No problem! Be safe 🖤

[Blackcupcake]

everyone should use sunscreen

[CAPTAIN-OBVIOUS]

I don’t use it because I tan perfectly

[jasco]

I need to start using it but typically no I don't

[cootjuhh]

some i know do yes