Sunscreen provides essential protection for our skin against harmful UV rays. However, when it comes to men’s skin, there are common misconceptions about sun protection. The truth is, sun safety and using sunscreen are just as vital for men as women; keep reading to find out why.
Why Men Need Sunscreen, Too
Many people believe men’s skin is less susceptible to UV rays. However, this isn’t true. In fact, men’s skin is actually at greater risk of developing skin cancer. So, debunking the myth that men don’t need sun protection is crucial.
Men are sometimes reluctant to use sun protection. There are many reasons that men avoid wearing sunscreen. One common reason is the belief that increased melanin in Black skin provides natural, built-in protection from the sun. It’s true that melanin does provide some level of protection from the sun. However, it doesn’t mean that Black skin has full protection from harmful UV rays. So, sunscreen is always essential, even for those with more melanin-rich skin.
Sunscreen & Men’s Skin
Using sunscreen is vital, but understanding how to choose the right sunscreen and the features to look for is crucial. Here’s what you need to know:
SPF Rating & Its Importance
First, you need to look for the sunscreen’s SPF rating. All sunscreens have a sun protection factor rating. This number refers to the level of protection the sunscreen offers against ultraviolet B rays.
The American Academy of Dermatology advises that regardless of skin type, everyone should wear at least SPF 30 daily.
Higher SPF ratings, such as SPF 30, provide more protection for your skin by blocking a large proportion of UV light. So, always check the UV rating before you buy sunscreen.
What is Broad Spectrum Protection?
The SPF rating on sunscreen refers to the protection it offers against the sun’s ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. However, the sun’s ultraviolet A (UVA) rays are also harmful to the skin. So when shopping for sunscreen, it’s important to look for a sunscreen that provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays. These sunscreens offer broad spectrum protection for your skin.
Difference in Men’s Skin Type
Men’s skin has a different structure. The skin itself is thicker, and it contains more collagen and elastin. According to experts, it’s these differences that make men more prone to sun damage and skin cancer. So, while wearing sunscreen is essential for everyone, for men, it’s vitally important.
Best SPF Option for Men
At Black Girl Sunscreen, we understand that men’s skin has different needs. We also know that men want different things from their sun protection. So, we formulated BGS Men SPF 30. Our broad spectrum sunscreen is designed specifically for Men of Color and addresses men’s unique skincare concerns.
BGS Men provides essential SPF 30 protection for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It’s free from titanium dioxide and packed with natural ingredients to keep skin moisturized. The water resistant formula is perfect for men with active lifestyles, making it easy for men to stay protected and embrace sun safety.