Ultrasun: Busting The Myths On SPF For Darker Skin Tones
As discussed in our last blog, May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and one of our favourite sunscreen brands,Ultrasun, have partnered up with educational platform the Black Skin Directory to launch the UK's first initiative to highlight the need for sun protection for all skin types and the myths surrounding SPF for dark skin.
“It's a long held myth amongst sections of BME (Black and minority ethnic) communities that dark skin doesn't require sun protection and the presence of melanin is enough to protect from the harmful effects of the sun and the development of skin cancer," says Dija Ayodele, Aesthetician and founder of Black Skin Directory. “All skin tones have melanin, however, darker skin has deeper and more active melanin cells, which affords a natural sun protection factor of approximately 13, but experts agree that this is insufficient to protect skin completely and people of colour must still practice sun safety including the application of sunscreen."
SPF 30 Or Above Is Essential
A broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or above is essential. Black skin can still suffer burns from being unprotected in the sun, which is an indicator that damage including cell mutation is happening further down in the dermal layers. Dija continues “Scientific research confirms that darker skin tones are less susceptible to skin disease like Melanoma, however the mortality rate is higher and deadlier amongst black people than amongst Caucasians, simply because usually at the point of diagnosis, the cancer is more advanced. Abi Cleeve, Ultrasun UK MD, agrees: "A high UVA% filter preferably of over 90% and SPF (UVB) of at least 30 is equally crucial for darker skin tones, both ¨for the prevention of skin cancer and preventing skin damage as part of a regular skin care routine.
UVA Causes And Worsens Hypigmentation
UVA's link to the cause and the worsening of hyperpigmentation is well established, and ensuring that protection is a daily skincare step is the best prevention tool. Application is also key to ensure maximum benefit. Protection should be applied indoors at least 15 minutes before going outside including under make-up as a primer all year round.
Ultrasun: Sun Protection For All Skin Types
Ultrasun has sun protection products for all skin types that deliver high, broad-spectrum protection leaving none of the chalky residue that those with darker skin tones are understandably keen to avoid. With this myth fully quashed, how do you guard against sun damage and skin cancer on darker skin tones?
- Apply a daily broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen minimum factor 30 at least 15 minutes before going outside.
- Seek shade during the hottest parts of the day, wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses and cover up in loose clothing.
- Check your skin frequently for changes in colour, shape and size to existing moles or new moles. Skin cancer can also develop on the nail bed, palms, soles, buttocks and groin area.
- Monitor cuts and sores that don't seem to heal properly or patches of skin that are dry and scaly without improvement.
- Seek medical opinion quickly.
Discover The Best Sunscreens For You
Ultrasun offers a variety of products to suit different requirements and preferences, from sunscreen for black skin to sunscreen for fair skin tones. The Sports Gels (available in SPF 20, 30, 50) in a transparent gel formula particularly suited to darker skin tones. These sunscreens are rapidly absorbing and invisible on the skin leaving no chalky appearance. The Ultrasun Face range delivers high level UVA, UVB, Infrared-A protection and anti-ageing properties including Ectoin® (a rare natural ingredient scientifically proven to prevent UVA-induced premature photo-ageing of the skin).Ultrasun Face SPF 30 50ml is lightweight and fast absorbing, serving as a great primer under make up whilst still protecting.
Formulated in Switzerland using patented liposome technology, Ultrasun offers long-lasting, photostable and broad-spectrum sun protection that is water, sweat and towel resistant. The non-greasy, fast absorbing and easy to apply formulas deliver high level protection against harmful UV and Infrared-A rays. The entire Ultrasun range is free from: emulsifiers, perfumes and preservatives reducing the risk of an allergic reaction and prickly heat.
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A lightweight sunscreen that not only protects against UVA/UVB rays but also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and uneven skin tone.
This fast absorbing broad spectrum sunscreen is ideal for on-the-go use, uniquely designed so it absorbs into the skin and is the no.1 sunscreen for people who enjoy outdoor pursuits.
This fast absorbing broad spectrum sunscreen is ideal for on-the-go use, uniquely designed so it absorbs into the skin and is the no.1 sunscreen for people who enjoy outdoor pursuits.
This fast absorbing broad spectrum sunscreen is ideal for on-the-go use, uniquely designed so it absorbs into the skin and is the no.1 sunscreen for people who enjoy outdoor pursuits.
This fast absorbing broad spectrum sunscreen is ideal for on-the-go use, uniquely designed so it absorbs into the skin and is the no.1 sunscreen for people who enjoy outdoor pursuits.
This fast absorbing broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against UVA, UVB and Infrared exposure. The gel is non-greasy and non-sticky, making it ideal for on-the-go use, people who enjoy outdoor pursuits and sports.
The ideal sunscreen for hikers, windsurfers, cyclists and anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. Lightweight and fuss free with high protection. Suitable for all skin types.
The ideal sunscreen for hikers, windsurfers, cyclists and anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. Lightweight and fuss free with high protection. Suitable for all skin types.
Fast-absorbing, non-greasy and lightly perfumed gel boosts a natural tan and restores skin’s moisture levels.
An after sun that instantly cools and rehydrates sun-damaged skin, reducing inflammation and keeping your skin moisturized more than to 24 hours.
This broad spectrum all-in-one sunscreen will help reduce appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation whilst nourishing and protecting your skin with its lightweight, oil free formula.
Protect the entire body with a 100% mineral sun protection in a fast-absorbing, non-greasy and non-sticky formula with additional protection against Infrared and High Energy Visible light with innovative ingredient InfraGuard.
Protect the entire body with a 100% mineral sun protection in a fast-absorbing, non-greasy and non-sticky formula with additional protection against Infrared and High Energy Visible light with innovative ingredient InfraGuard.
This broad spectrum sun protection for the body contains Bronzyl, a natural tan enhancer, to help you develop a deep bronze tan safely.
This broad spectrum sun protection for the body contains Bronzyl, a natural tan enhancer, to help you develop a deep bronze tan safely.
Perfect for highly exposed or highly sensitive skin, this powerful, water-resistant sunscreen provides deep, long lasting protection.
Perfect for highly exposed or highly sensitive skin, this powerful, water-resistant sunscreen provides deep, long lasting protection.
Perfect for highly exposed or highly sensitive skin, this powerful, water-resistant sunscreen provides deep, long lasting protection.
This high protection, ultra light and fast absorbing face fluid is tinted for a warm and natural radiance to the complexion alongside anti ageing active ingredients that restore moisture levels, fight the appearance of lines,...
A lightweight sunscreen that not only protects against UVA/UVB rays but also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and uneven skin tone.
A multi-tasking anti-ageing and anti-pigmentation daily treatment that delivers a natural tint with a matte finish.
This broad-spectrum tinted, facial sunscreen will keep your skin young and healthy, protected and nourished. Enhance visibly smoother skin with even tone and a smooth feel whilst keeping protected from UVA and UVB rays.
This tinted sunscreen provides a high level of UV protection while creating a naturally flawless base.
Lightweight and smooth on the skin, this family sunscreen is fast absorbing and water-resistant, so no more worries on family holidays or day trips out.
Lightweight and smooth on the skin, this family sunscreen is fast absorbing and water-resistant, so no more worries on family holidays or day trips out.
Lightweight and smooth on the skin, this family sunscreen is fast absorbing and water-resistant, so no more worries on family holidays or day trips out.
Protect with pride with this glimmer sunscreen that gives you subtle glow as well as protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Protect with pride with this glimmer sunscreen that gives you subtle glow as well as protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Guest blog post by: Ultrasun
