Can Dark-Skinned People Get Sunburned?
Although those with darker skin tones are less likely to get sunburned due to the melanin in the skin, they can still become sunburned and are also at risk of side effects from sun exposure, such as skin cancer, premature aging, and hyperpigmentation. No matter the skin tone, it’s essential everyone wears proper sun protection to avoid skin damage due to the sun.
Key takeaways:
Those with darker complexions can get sunburns, but not as quickly as those with fair complexions.
A sunburn on someone with black skin can look darker in appearance and may not present with redness.
Those with darker skin are less likely to develop skin cancer; however, there is still a risk, and they should take precautions to protect themselves from UV damage.
Wearing sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more and wearing sun protective clothing can reduce the risk of sunburn and other sun damage, such as premature skin aging and hyperpigmentation.
Can dark-skinned and black people get sunburned?
Yes, dark-skinned people can get sunburned. Although it is typically less common, it is still possible, and those with darker skin tones are still at risk when exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Individuals with darker skin have high melanin, making them less likely to burn. Melanin in the skin is used to help absorb and disperse the harmful UV rays from the sun and can reduce the risk of sun damage, including sunburn.
"Anyone can get skin cancer, regardless of age, gender, or skin tone."
The American Academy of Dermatology
No one is entirely safe from sunburn. Although melanin in darker skin helps prevent sunburn, it does not completely protect against skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer.
What does a sunburn look like on black skin?
A sunburn on dark skin can appear differently than one on fair or light skin and can vary depending on the severity of the burn.
Darkening of the skin. In most cases, the skin affected by the sun will turn darker or slightly red and can be more noticeable when compared to the skin in an area not affected by the sun.
Painful to the touch. Although the burn is not as noticeable on those with darker skin, the uncomfortable or painful feeling can be the same. The area may be sore to the touch, or irritating when dressing.
Peeking and flaking. This is commonly one or two days after a sunburn and causes the skin to flake, peel, or become more sensitive.
Swelling or blisters. In more severe cases, there can be heat, swelling, and blisters on the skin’s surface in areas where the skin is burnt. This is more common after severe cases of sunburn.
Hyperpigmentation or darkening of the skin after the sunburn has healed. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and is more common in those with darker skin. It can last up to 12 months after the sunburn first appears and will eventually fade.
How long does it take for a black person to get sunburned?
The time it takes for someone with dark skin to get a sunburn can vary depending on several factors, including skin type, skin tone, sun intensity, duration of sun exposure, and sun protection.
Most often, a sunburn can appear within as little as 11 minutes and show signs of sunburn within 2–6 hours after sun exposure. Sunburns can last up to two weeks before it starts to subside and return to normal.
Are dark-skinned and black people less inclined to develop skin cancer?
According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, black people are far less likely to develop skin cancer than non-Hispanic white people at a rate of “1 per 100,000 compared to 30 to 100,000.”
Although less likely, skin cancer can occur in those with darker skin, and it’s essential to check for any unusual skin changes.
How to protect from sun damage
Like fair skin tones, those with dark skin need to protect them from the sun. Proper sun protection decreases the risk of sunburn and other conditions, such as skin cancer, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging.
Sunscreen. Using sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or more at least 15 minutes before going outside is very important. It’s also good to reapply sunscreen every two hours or more if swimming or sweating. Protecting your lips with an SPF lip balm is also beneficial, as the skin on the lips can be susceptible.
Wear protective clothing. Proper clothing, such as loose pants, long-sleeve shirts, and a hat, can protect the scalp and body from sunburn.
Find shade. When outdoors, use an umbrella, shade tent, or canopy, or find a shaded area to shelter from the sun to protect the skin from prolonged sun exposure and offer relief from the heat.
Limit time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when the sun’s UV rays peak and can cause the most skin damage.
Reading medication labels. Some medications can increase the susceptibility to burning. It’s important to read labels and speak to a doctor about your medications and sun risk before exposure to the sun.
Taking proper measures to protect the skin from sun damage is essential. Those with darker skin may not be as likely to experience sunburn as someone with lighter skin tones. However, taking proper care to avoid sunburn is just as important.
FAQ
Is black skin more sensitive to the sun?
No, those with black skin are less sensitive to the sun due to the melanin in the skin. They are better protected against the sun’s harmful UV rays that cause damage to the skin’s surface and cause those with lighter skin tones to burn more easily.
How do you treat sunburn on black skin?
To treat a sunburn on black skin, it’s important to stay hydrated, use ice packs to cool the skin, and apply unscented moisturizers, such as aloe vera gel, to help heal and soothe the skin. Taking over-the-counter ibuprofen can also help to alleviate the pain caused by sunburn.
Does sunscreen darken skin?
Certain types of sunscreen can cause mild darkening of the skin’s surface. Some chemical sunscreens or sunscreens with hormonally activated ingredients can increase skin pigmentation and cause a darker-looking appearance.
Do not forget that sun safety is important for everyone, including people of all skin tones. Make sure to use sunscreen strictly as directed in the label and do not apply it to infants and small kids without a healthcare professional recommendation. Also be aware that sunscreens are only one element of a sunburn, skin cancer and early skin aging prevention strategy. Therefore, do not forget to use other sun protective measures such as protective clothes, sunglasses, and a hat, and seek shade whenever possible during periods of peak sunlight to avoid overexposure.
Resources:
American Academy of Dermatology. Sunscreen FAQ.
American Cancer Society. Are some people more likely to get damage from the sun?
StatPerals. Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation.
Centre for Disease Control and Prevention. Sunburn and Sun Protective Behaviors Among Adults Aged 18–29 Years — United States.
