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, here are some of our favourite invisible sunscreens to help protect skin against sun damage.
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 and, at £8, been so affordable!
Best face 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, Eucerin Sun Face Hydro Protect Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50+ 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 not only shields your skin from harmful rays but also keeps it hydrated throughout the day. Ideal for daily use, it’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, ensuring it won'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: La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 SPF50+
• Size: 50ml
• Perfume-free
• Water, sweat and sand resistant
The Anthelios range from La Roche-Posay is a firm favourite of beauty editors and so any new additions to the line-up had a lot to live up to. Enter this launch that’s not only impressively hard-wearing but ultra light, non-sticky and non-greasy, making it feel imperceptible on the skin. We think we may have found a new must-have.
Best sunscreen for break-out prone skin
To help protect against environmental stresses, try: Clear Start by Dermalogica Clearing Defence SPF30
• Size: 59ml
• Mattifying Formula
• Non-comedogenic
• Protects against environmental stress
Ideal for those with breakout-prone skin, Dermalogica Clear Start Clearing Defence SPF30 offers a lightweight, non-greasy formula that helps to reduce shine and protect your skin from environmental stress. Its patented technology works with your skin’s natural microbiome, while ingredients like willow bark extract, green tea extract, and vitamin C help to combat the effects of pollution and help maintain a clear complexion. This sunscreen not only provides broad-spectrum UV protection but also helps to support healthier skin.
Best sunscreen for face & body
To help keep you protected from top to toe, try Soltan Clear and Cool Protect Suncare Mist SPF50 200ml
• Size: 200ml
• Non-greasy
• Maximum 5-star UVA protection
• Made with 95% recycled materials
If you’re looking to save space in your suitcase, put this on your holiday-packing checklist as it can be used on your face and body. You shouldn’t spray this directly onto your face. Instead, spray it on your hands first and rub it into your face. At 200ml, this mist provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with a refreshing sensation for an instant cooling effect. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, making it ideal for use from top to toe.
Best sunscreen for water resistance
For some splash-proof sun protection, try: Hawaiian Tropic Glowing Protection Sunscreen Dry Oil SPF30
• Size: 200ml
• High UVA/UVB Protection
• Water resistant
• Tropical scentIdeal for those with breakout-prone skin
Indulge your senses with Hawaiian Tropic Protective Dry Spray Oil Mist, enriched with coconut and argan oil. This SPF30 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: Vichy Ideal Soleil Hydrating Solar Protective Water SPF30
• Size: 200ml
If you hate the feeling of anything too heavy, you’ll love this ingenious ‘solar water’. Cooling, refreshing and, most importantly, protective thanks to an SPF of 30, it absorbs without a trace. What’s more, it contains hyaluronic acid and the brand’s own soothing thermal water for long-lasting hydration.
Best-scented sunscreen for body
For a scent-sational find, try Clarins Sun Care Water Mist SPF50+
• Size: 150ml
If you’re looking for a spritz of summer, try this. Not only does it cocoon skin with the most transportative of scents, its glow-boosting formula leaves limbs looking gorgeous. One spray will have you feeling like you’re on a sun lounger, come staycation or vacation this year.
Best sunscreen for children
Make sun protection child’s play. Try: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Uvmune 400 Dermo-Paediatrics Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid SPF50+
• Size: 50ml
• Ultra-light fluid
• Hypoallergenic
• Water resistant
Specially formulated for children's sensitive skin, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Uvmune 400 offers high-level SPF50+ 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 about finding the product that melts in, not stands out. Shop our full sun care range here.
