Black Does Crack: Why Should Nigerians Wear Sunscreen?

“Why should Nigerians wear sunscreen?”

This was a question we received during this year’s UV Awareness Month, providing a perfect opportunity to educate more people. The short answer is yes, you should wear sunscreen. Let’s dive into why.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Black don’t crack,” suggesting that darker skin stays youthful longer. However, it’s a myth that having more melanin, the pigment in our skin, fully protects darker-skinned people from the sun.

The Truth About Melanin and Sun Protection

People with dark skin tones, regardless of race or ethnicity, are still vulnerable to sun damage, including sunburn, hyperpigmentation, skin cancer, and premature aging. According to Olumide Gbadebo, a skincare expert and Founder of Adunni Organics, a Nigerian skincare brand:

“Melanin protects the skin from sun damage, but it doesn’t make it immune. People with more melanin tend to be less prone to sun damage, but they are not immune to it at all.”

This is consistent with data from dermatologists and skincare experts who say that melanin offers only about SPF 13 protection, which isn’t enough to shield you from harmful UV rays.

How Excess Sunlight Damages Your Skin

Sun damage can affect anyone, regardless of skin tone. UV rays from the sun cause cellular damage to the skin. While sunburn might not be as noticeable on dark skin, the damage is still occurring. The more you’re exposed to the sun, the higher your risk of damage.

In a survey of people of African ancestry in the UK, 52.2% reported a history of sunburn. Though redness may not be as visible, symptoms like increased skin sensitivity, tightness, and itchiness can indicate sunburn.

Olumide added that sun exposure can also cause hyperpigmentation and photoaging. Hyperpigmentation is what occurs when patches of skin become darker than the surrounding areas due to excess melanin production after being irritated or injured by the sun. While treatments are available, the condition can sometimes be permanent.

Excessive sun exposure also leads to photoaging, or premature skin aging. This affects all skin tones, causing fine lines, wrinkles, texture changes, and benign lesions. There is also the risk of melanoma, known as skin cancer, which is a more drastic possibility.

Can Black People Get Skin Cancer?

Absolutely. It’s a dangerous misconception that darker skin is immune to skin cancer. Everyone, regardless of race, can develop skin cancer.

Three common types of skin cancer are melanoma (the most dangerous and likely to spread), basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. These cancers usually occur in sun-exposed areas and are less dangerous than melanoma. Additionally, rare forms of skin cancer, which are harder to diagnose and treat, can affect people with dark skin.

For example, Mylah Howard, who was diagnosed with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, initially mistook her symptoms for sunburn. After extensive treatments, she remains in remission but will never be completely cured.

How Nigerians Can Protect Their Skin

Given the risks, protecting your skin from sun damage is crucial. Here’s how:

Wear Sunscreen Daily: Everyone, including those with darker skin, needs sunscreen every day. Broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UV-A and UV-B rays reduces skin cancer risk, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging. Use SPF 30 or higher. If you’re concerned about white residue, choose clear sunscreens.
Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure: Long-sleeved shirts, long pants or skirts, and wide-brimmed hats provide excellent protection. Stay in the shade as much as possible, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Regular Dermatologist Visits: Notice anything unusual on your skin? See a dermatologist. Regular skin checks help establish a baseline for your skin and develop a treatment or prevention plan.

Protecting your skin is essential for everyone. So, embrace sunscreen and other protective measures to keep your skin healthy and glowing!