BEAUTY MYTH-BUSTER: DO AFRICAN WOMEN ACTUALLY NEED TO WEAR SUN SCREEN?

This is possibly one of the biggest beauty questions on black girls’ minds all over the world: Oyinbo /IJGB Culture or do we really need it? Does black skin crack (get sun brunt?!) The answer may surprise you!

Apparently, it’s possible we do need to add sunscreen lotion to our morning beauty routine, after all. Research from healthcare company, Mayo Clinic, shows that although the melanin in black skin does give us some protection, the environment has changed and it is affecting the efficiency of the natural sun block in our skin.

According to Mayo Clinic, although we don’t tend to get sun burnt, we are still at risk of skin damage from excessive sun exposure, as easily as people with fair skin.

So what does sun screen actually do?

Ultraviolet (or UV) radiation, an invisible part of the solar spectrum, is responsible for sunburn and other damaging effects to people’s skin. Sun-blocking skin lotions head off the UV light before it gets to surface of the skin.

So, I hope I have convinced you and not confused you (he he!) that even black people – i.e. you and I – do actually need sun screen – especially because of our (extra) hot climate, my Naija people. Here’s a guide on what to look out for and what to buy:

Caution: Make sure you aren’t allergic to the product. If you have sensitive skin, speak to a medical professional first (or do quick online research!).