“Despite the prevalent misconception that melanin-rich skin doesn’t need sunscreen, it’s crucial for everyone to use it. While melanin provides some natural protection against UV radiation, it is insufficient to prevent skin damage, premature aging, or skin cancer. Sunscreen shields the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can cause hyperpigmentation, photoaging, and skin cancer. Daily use of sunscreen is vital in maintaining healthy skin and preventing long-term damage, ensuring that your skin remains radiant and protected.”

So, don’t consider sunscreen a summertime staple but an everyday essential. Sitting in front of a computer screen all day exposes your skin to blue light. And the best one is the sunscreen you continually use!

With so many to choose from, where does one start, and what does one look for?

We’ve removed some guesswork by answering your biggest questions and creating these guide to sunscreens for darker skin tones:

What are the benefits of using sunscreen?

Sunscreen can block UV rays that stimulate melanin production. While significantly reducing and preventing uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation, maintains Ginille Brown, a Los Angeles-based Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and Founder of Ginille Beauty Aesthetic. “Many of my Black and brown patients see improvement in hyperpigmentation once they incorporate daily sunscreen into their routine. Moreover, treatments like laser, microneedling, facials, and chemical peels are more effective and safer when combined with diligent sun protection,” she states. In addition to sunscreen, using sun-protective clothing such as hats and gloves and avoiding the sun can enhance protection.

What should those with melanin-rich skin look for in sunscreen?

Dr. Stephens states that when selecting a sunscreen, individuals with melanin-rich skin should seek products that offer broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad spectrum means the sunscreen protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. Choosing a sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white caste is essential, which is a common issue with many mineral-based sunscreens (more on that below). Opt for formulations with micronized zinc oxide or chemical/organic sunscreens that blend seamlessly into the skin. Hydrating ingredients and antioxidants can also be incredibly beneficial, helping maintain skin health and prevent hyperpigmentation. Look for sunscreens enriched with nourishing components like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and Niacinamide, which protect the skin and enhance its overall appearance and texture.

What is the difference between mineral sunscreens and chemical sunscreens?

Brown explains that mineral sunscreens contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on the skin’s surface and physically block UV rays. Chemical sunscreens contain organic compounds like Oxybenzone or avobenzone that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin. She also suggests that those with sensitive skin should use mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as they are less likely to irritate.

Two to try: Check out Brown’s brand, Jasi Skin Crystal Clear Mineral SPF 45, $64, or CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Body Lotion.

Wait a minute. Are all chemicals safe to use?

According to the Environmental Working Group, out of 1,700 products tested, which included recreational sunscreens and daily-use SPF products, nearly 300 contain Oxybenzone, octinoxate, or both; half of the products raise significant concerns about allergies. Avoid Oxybenzone and octinoxate, both found in many chemical sunscreens, which are harmful to human health and the environment. The National Institutes of Health reports that they are known to cause allergies in people and disrupt hormones, while in nature, they harm coral reefs and fish, causing bleaching and even death.

What is an SPF? What number should we be looking for?

Cosmetic chemist Nongdo Bougouma says according to the FDA, SPF is a measure that indicates how long it takes for UV rays to redden protected skin (i.e., skin with sunscreen) compared to unprotected skin (i.e., skin without sunscreen). For example, if it takes 10 minutes to sunburn without sunscreen, with an SPF of 50, it will now take 500 minutes. Nurse Practitioner Brown adds that a higher SPF offers more protection, but only to a certain extent. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. Beyond SPF 50, the increase in protection is minimal.

An SPF of at least 30 is recommended for everyday use. An SPF of 50 or higher should provide additional protection against intense UV exposure for extended outdoor activities, such as a day at the beach. Look for sweat— and waterproof sunscreens or water-resistant sunscreens to ensure long-lasting protection. Using moisturizers or makeup with SPF is not enough. It’s essential to use sunscreen in addition to other skincare products and makeup, even if they contain SPF.

Help me start my journey. Which sunscreens are meeting melanated needs?

Black Girl Sunscreen Ultra Sheer SPF 30 Moisturizing Sunscreen, $19, is an excellent place to start if you have normal to dry skin. But if you have oily skin, try Black Girl Sunscreen, Make it Matte, SPF 45, $17.99.

Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50, $36,  Lightweight, sweat and water-resistant.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Broad Spectrum SPF 55, $13.99, is a tried-and-true sunscreen for all-over use and long sunny days at the beach.

Face card approved: Tinted sunscreens come to the rescue in deeper shades that convert a bevy of hues and go the distance as a protectant and makeup. Expect a glow-up as they all include good-for-skin ingredients like hyaluronic acid to provide hydration and retain moisture.

Reach for:

EltaMD Skincare UV Daily Broad Spectrum 40 Deep Tint, $45 (but don’t sleep on the transp option, UV Clear SPF 46), contains Niacinamide, which helps reduce the appearance of discoloration and blemishes.

Live Tinted Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50, $42. Natural ingredients like Butterfly Bush Flower Extract prevent collagen breakdown and encourage skin repair.

Fenty Beauty Hydra Vizor Huez SPF 30 Refillable Tinted Moisturizer Set, $48. It comes in 10 shades. Rich in antioxidants, it reduces the appearance of pores, dark spots, and fine lines.

Clear formulas: SEKKISEI, Herbal UV Defense Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 40 Sunscreen, $30, is the perfect marriage of ancient herbal ingredients and modern technology in a clear formula that works for our skin. Ingredients include licorice root to reduce irritation, Angelica Gingas root, which reduces hyperpigmentation and keeps skin hydrated, and Job’s Tear Seed Extract. The formula is encapsulated in an oil-in-water emulsion that absorbs quickly into the skin so the sunscreen doesn’t feel greasy.

Then glow and protect your body with these two perfect picks:

Kopari Sun Shield Body Glow Sunscreen, $42, is a lightweight gel sunscreen infused with vitamin E, macadamia, and hibiscus oils available in SPF 30-50 in shades of amber, gold, or rose with UVA and UVB coverage.

 Cay Skin Nourishing Body Mist SPF 50 with Sea Moss and Hyaluronic Acid, $26. It is easy to apply spray. It offers broad-spectrum UV protection, is silicone-free, and is safe for sensitive skin. It is non-comedogenic, vegan, and non-comedogenic. Model Winnie Harlow has built a winning formula with this line!

And then there are those products that are multitaskers or are perfect for on-the-go. Here are two sun protectors to try:

The Multitasker: Undefined Beauty R&R Sun Elixir, SPF 30 Glow Oil, $22  A fast-absorbing waterless formula infused with Vitamin C, Rosehip, Milk Thistle, and Moringa that offers broad spectrum protection and can be applied to skin, scalp, hair, and body.

Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 in Deep, $69. It is the best way to reapply sunscreen over your makeup daily. It is infused with hyaluronic acid to restore moisture to the skin and antioxidants. It is safe for sensitive skin and adds protection without disrupting your look.

How long does your sunscreen last?

These days, sunscreen generally has an expiration date. But it typically lasts about three years from the time you purchase it. If you use it the way you should, it probably won’t last that long. If you don’t see an expiration date, use a Sharpie to write the date of purchase on it.

To keep it in optimal condition, follow these tips from the Mayo Clinic:

• Don’t leave sunscreen out in the heat or direct sunlight.
• Wrap it in a towel, keep it in the shade, or place it in a cooler.
• If the color or texture of your sunscreen changes significantly, toss it.

The post Our 2024 Guide to Sunscreens: 16 Picks for Darker Skin appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Turbaned Diva’s honors are many, including awards from GMHHC NYC, The DC Center for the LGBTQ+ Community, DC Councilmember Anita Bonds, DC Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Empowerment Liberation Cathedral Church, and the Community Church of Washington. A perennial fave of The Washington Blade, the oldest LGBTQ+ newspaper in the United States, Rayceen has been a cover subject and regularly featured as a local hero, activist, and Clergy (despite not being ordained or ministering in a traditional capacity) . And if that isn’t enough, she is hosting numerous LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations in DC.

The Empress of Pride shares her thoughts on the state of the black LGBTQ+ community, what we all need to consider this election season, and the importance of giving a damn:

BHM: Tell us briefly how you became an activist in the LGBTQ+ and Black communities.

Rayceen: Activism is in my DNA. Growing up with a mother who had a career as a social worker, I was always encouraged to help people and uplift my community. I was born in Freeman’s Hospital, which was the Colored Hospital. I am not far removed from my ancestors, who lived their lives under segregation, Jim Crow, and slavery. Being an activist was less of a choice and more of a necessity. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I’ve also faced and witnessed discrimination, so being an activist has always been about fighting for all of my freedoms.

BHM: School us. What are the key issues in the black LGBTQ+ community need to be addressed, particularly in an election year?

Rayceen: The key issue is the Supreme Court. Regardless of how you might feel about the candidates, we know what will happen depending on who is in the White House next year. Our rights as Black people and as LGBTQ+ people are on the line. But, people need to be vigilant every year in all elections, especially local elections, because those are the politicians who can enact or repeal laws about ballot access, employment discrimination, housing discrimination, banning books, police brutality, bail access, prison reform, healthcare, and much more.

BHM: Due to breakthroughs in AIDS research and medicine, AIDS is no longer a death sentence. What are the new concerns in a post-AIDS world?

Rayceen: The good news is that although I’ve known many people who died in their youth due to HIV/AIDS, I now know many people who are long-term survivors who are thriving. Because of our years of activism, systems have been put in place to address everyone’s physical, mental, and financial needs, including those people who have HIV and aging gracefully. What has definitely changed is that there are more LGBTQ+ people who are aging, living out, and proud. Systems must be ready to support that, particularly concerning healthcare and housing.

BHM: Why does Pride Month matter?

Rayceen: There are many things happening during Pride Month, but as the Empress of Pride, I must remind everyone that Pride is more than a party; it is an act of resistance and a demonstration of our resilience. As the Queen of the Shameless Plug, I want to encourage people to join me for Silver Pride on June 20th at the Pepco Edison Place Gallery and the District of Pride Showcase on June 27th at the Lincoln Theatre.

BHM: What does the future hold for Rayceen, and what is your wish for all of us?

Rayceen: We are celebrating ten years of Team Rayceen Productions this year. I hope we continue to connect with new people, add new co-hosts to our roster, and create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people, allies, youth, seniors, and all the people who have supported us over the years. I look forward to continuing to host annual events and participate in new events in DC and beyond. My wish for everyone is peace, stability, prosperity, and love. I hope all those things are possible, but that depends on what happens between now and Election Day, November 5th. It’s do or die. Potentially, the last 70+ years of progress could be dismantled. What I, my contemporaries, my elders, and my ancestors accomplished could be destroyed and not regained in my lifetime or until the next century.

Want to learn more? Rayceen is active on social media, co-hosts on the Team Rayceen YouTube channel, and holds court on An Audience with the Queen of the Shameless Plug, the new monthly livestream series. For the latest information, please visit Rayceen.com.

The post Rayceen Pendarvis On Why Advocating for the Black LGBTQIA+ Community is Critical in 2024 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The exercises, which include walking, jogging, dancing, planks, lunges, and squats, work directly on bones in the legs, hips, and lower spine to slow bone loss and offer the following benefits:

Muscle strength

These exercises help build and maintain muscle strength, which is essential for overall physical function and preventing injuries.

Balance and coordination

By challenging your body’s balance and coordination, weight-bearing exercises can improve your stability and reduce the risk of falls.

Cardiovascular health

Many weight-bearing exercises improve heart health, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Bone health

Weight-bearing exercises can help strengthen bone density, reduce the risk of osteoporosis, and prevent bone loss as you age.

Remember that, as we get older, diminished bone density can lead to osteoporosis. The National Council on Aging finds that although Black women have a lower prevalence of osteoporosis overall, we experience worse outcomes after fractures caused by osteoporosis.

If we have lupus or sickle cell anemia, we are more likely to have a higher osteoporosis risk.

Ready to incorporate these exercises into your routine? Our fitness experts help you get into action:

The ultimate combo

DC-based certified personal trainer David Franklin reminds us that exercise is essential for strength, mobility, flexibility, and balance. Exercise cannot undo a bad diet. Too much exercise can increase one’s appetite and lead to overeating.

“When you lose weight, you lose muscle and fat. That is why you want to exercise while you are losing weight, Franklin explains

Remember that it is easy to put the fat back on. Muscle requires a lot more effort. Exercise and eat right for optimal health. Focus on your behavior, and the results will come”.

Mind over matter

It’s never too late to get up and get moving. And no, you don’t have to dive into a high-intensity workout, says celebrity fitness guru and lifestyle coach Kacy Duke. She adds, “I think it’s important to remember that weight-bearing exercises are not just about physical appearance, but about feeling empowered, resilient, and fully equipped to conquer life’s hurdles. So seize those weights, step into the gym, and reveal your strength – inside and out!”

Get moving

The experts agree that the best way to keep bones strong is to do both weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises. Just as a muscle gets stronger the more you use it, a bone gets stronger and denser when you place demands on it. Two types of exercises can help you maintain or increase bone health: weight-bearing and resistance exercise. Combine walks with at least two 20-minute strength training sessions. (See below for how many squats and planks you need each week.)

Safety first.

Always consult your doctor before you start an exercise plan. Once they give you the OK, you can start with a walking program. Franklin adds, “I recommend consulting with a fitness professional if you are new to exercise and need guidance. Safety should be your primary goal. Beware of bodybuilder types, pushing extreme fitness and diet programs unless your goal is to compete as a bodybuilder”.

The gym doesn’t have to be a destination.

Gyms have equipment, group classes, pools, saunas, and personal trainers. Some people like gym environments, while others do not. There is nothing magical about a gym membership, Franklin, www.DLFfitness.com chuckles. His suggestions? Consider an online trainer, which you can find through word of mouth or watch videos on various platforms. Three for free: Nike Training Club on Netflix and Android and iOS apps; FITON-Free Fitness Workouts on Roku; and the National Institute of Aging’s 15-minute Workout for Older Adults on YouTube.

Challenge me.

New trends and techniques can always provide fresh challenges and benefits. Some recent developments in weight-bearing exercises include incorporating unstable surfaces like balance pads or exercise balls to engage more stabilizer muscles and integrating functional movements that mimic real-life activities for improved overall strength and mobility, says Duke, the owner of Kacy Duke Fitness Inc.,  and exploring different forms of resistance training such as using resistance bands, kettlebells, or suspension trainers for variety and versatility in workouts. It’s always a good idea to stay updated on the latest trends and techniques in weight-bearing exercise to keep your routine engaging and effective.

Make it fun.

Remember, exercise is a mood enhancer that helps soothe a racing mind. Duke, the OG of fitness trainers, says,” Embrace the challenge, conquer your doubts, and unleash the warrior within! Let’s lift, push through the sweat, and smash those goals with unwavering determination and heart!”

What are you waiting for?

Put your phone down, mute the television, and take ten minutes two to three times a week to run through this old-school set:

Squats.

Stand with your feet hip-width apart and hands on your hips. Bend your knees and lower yourself into a sitting position; at the same time, raise your arms straight out in front of you, level with your shoulders. Slowly straighten your legs to a standing position. Work your way up to three sets of eight to 10 reps per set.

Here, Britnee Babe demonstrates how to do a proper squat:

Then, when you are ready to level up to a challenge, check out Kacy Duke’s Squat Trifecta.

Plank.

Lie face down on the mat. Push up so you’re balanced on your elbows, forearms, and toes. Keep your back and body straight, your hips level, and slightly tuck in your tailbone. Breathe. Start by holding the position for 10 seconds and work up to 60 seconds.

@Fit and Fabulous with Maddy Owens demonstrates a few ways to do a plank.

The Prone Plank

The Full Body Plank

Supported by an educational grant from Novo Nordisk Inc. 

The post Move It and Improve It! Why Weight Bearing Exercises Are Essential to Your Weight Loss Plan appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Always have these tools on hand.

You probably already have a wide-tooth comb, a detangling brush, a diffuser attachment for a blow dryer, a microfiber towel, or an old T-shirt for drying after washing. Heron says level up with a focus on the scalp. Add a scalp scrubber to your arsenal to increase blood circulation. Invest in a hair steamer to help conditioning and treatments penetrate the hair and the scalp.

Make pre-poo optional (except in one special instance).

If you fell down the rabbit hole of black hair care influencers, you would think pre-poo, adding oil or conditioner to the hair before shampooing, was the holy grail of healthy hair and, therefore, an essential step. Not so, explains Lynch; it is helpful if you have difficulty detangling or coming out of a protective style because it adds more moisture.

Enhance your wash technique.

For the best wash experience, detangle your hair before wetting. Wet hair thoroughly. Begin with a clarifying shampoo (we love 4U by Tia’s Clarifying Shampoo with Apple Cider Vinegar ), gently massage into the scalp in circular motions, and work your way down. Follow with a moisturizing shampoo like Pattern Hydration Shampoo to replenish moisture. Wash every seven to ten days. Be gentle with wet hair, as it is vulnerable to breakage.

Make gray great.

Gray hair requires special attention due to its unique characteristics, maintains Chappelle. The pigment has evaporated from the hair strand, leaving it opaque; use clear gloss and violet shampoos. These products help protect and seal the cuticles, making the hair structure flexible against damaging UV rays, which can tarnish gray hair. Play up silver strands with Maison 276 Hydrate Shampoo.

Save a weave.

Sounds daunting, but the key to cleansing a weave or extensions is prioritizing the scalp. Chappelle suggests before and after installing them, consider scalp exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, allowing scalp and hair follicles to breathe. Ensure thorough drying of braids underneath extensions or weaves to prevent bacterial growth; reach for TPH Maskin & Relaxing Scalp Mask to break down scaly buildup.

Work with a wardrobe of conditioners.

Having a wardrobe of conditioners can be beneficial depending on your hair needs. Lynch recommends rotating conditioners to keep hair from getting used to the product, which decreases efficiency and causes build-up. Keep your hair hydrated and strong with a protein-strengthening conditioner like African Pride Feel It Formula Peppermint, Rosemary & Sage Strengthening Mask. Rotate with a moisturizing conditioner (coddle strands with Cecred Moisturizing Deep Conditioner ). Both boost strands’ shine, suppleness, and strength. Maintain during the week with a spritz of Leave-in Conditioner Spray like As I Am Rosemary Water, which is great for temporary moisture and detangling. Note it’s not a stand-in for the deep conditioners, as leave-in conditioning alone will eventually lead to dryness, dullness, and loss of curl pattern.

Moisturize by the minutes.

It is not necessary to leave a conditioner on overnight. Experts recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions and, in lieu of instructions, keeping the conditioner no longer than 30 minutes. Leaving a conditioner in too long can make your hair limp and may affect how styling products work.

Set up for successful styling.

Gone are the days when it took a spritz of water, a hooded drier, and a blue grease finish to style your hair. Healthy, relaxed, and natural hair go-to products include setting mousse for a smooth roller set. Get The Doux Crazy Sexy CurlHoney Setting Foam. Look to a curl cream to add body and fight frizz. Try 4U BY Tia Soft Curl Defining Mousse. Round out your hair essentials with a heat protectant, a gel for sleek styles, and hydrating oil to finish. Braids and loc girlies shouldn’t be without a natural lightweight oil, rosemary oil, or African Pride Feel It Formula Peppermint, Rosemary & Sage Strengthening Oil. Keep scalp buildup down by hitting your parts with a scalp soothing treatment like Briogeo Scalp Revival Buildup Detox Spray To quell the itch.

The post Want to Create Salon-Worthy Hair at Home? Try These 8 Tips appeared first on Black Health Matters.