Do Black people ever get sunburned? Yes is the gist of the answer. A sunburn, skin damage, hyperpigmentation, or even skin cancer can still occur even though Black and dark-skinned persons are less sensitive to the sun. But before you make a lifelong commitment to avoid the sun, we’ve asked leading doctors to help dispel some misunderstandings and provide you with all the information you need to avoid sunburn and lower your chance of developing UV cancer.
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Recognize the Fitzpatrick Phototype Scale first
According to the “Fitzpatrick skin phototype scale,” doctors frequently group patients based on their likelihood of being sunburned. This scale, which goes from Skin Phototype I to VI, basically defines how skin reacts to light as one of the risk factors for developing skin cancer (and for choosing laser settings). On one extreme of the spectrum are people who only burn and never tan (I), while on the other are those who tan very easily and seldom ever burn (VI).
Can Black People Still Get Sunburned, then?
Simply said, absolutely. Anyone who has skin is susceptible to sunburn and, in turn, skin cancer. Dark-skinned individuals can develop skin cancer, although the risk is lower than it is for those with lighter skin.
This is so because darker skin has more melanin, which shields skin cells from UV ray damage. Darker skin tones develop in regions of the world that are closest to the equator and experience the most UV exposure. Melanin has a baseline estimated SPF of 7–10.2 for Fitzpatrick V and Fitzpatrick VI persons because it absorbs and disperses UV light similarly to sunscreen.
Darker skin tones can more easily tolerate UV exposure thanks to this natural SPF, which often produces tanning without burning.
Darker skin tones can still get sunburns, though, if they spend a lot of time in the sun, take medications like retinoids that make their skin more susceptible to the sun, or have sudden shifts in UV exposure.
Signs That You’re Sunburned
People with lighter skin or darker skin will exhibit the same symptoms of sunburn. They include warmth, discomfort, tightness, itching, swelling, and peeling. One of the greatest variations is that individuals with darker skin may not have as severe of a sunburn.
It usually arises in places that weren’t covered by sunscreen or that had more sun exposure. The rash could abruptly end when it is covered by clothing. The nose, chest, shoulders, and back are among the most often burned body parts.
But a sunburn can happen anyplace. In darker skin tones, the redness associated with a sunburn may appear more burgundy and be challenging to distinguish.
Usually appearing a few days following redness and discomfort, peeling of the burned region denotes the conclusion of the episode. In contrast to other rashes on people with darker skin tones, post-inflammatory pigmentation is infrequent with sunburns.
In addition to heightened discomfort and blisters packed with fluid, severe sunburns can also cause fevers, increased fatigue, and a general sensation of ill health.
How to Protect Yourself From Sun Exposure
Obtain shade
Your cumulative UV exposure will be reduced if you make it a practice to cross the street on the shadier side and set up picnic tables under trees.
Wear SPF daily
SPF should be reapplied every two hours after prolonged sun exposure and after swimming or exerting a lot of body heat. Activities like running and water sports outdoors can benefit from wearing sun-protective apparel. Wear SPF every day even if the winter months have decreased UV exposure. This will be simpler if you can find a beautiful product that you enjoy.
Avoid the spring and summer’s peak solar hours
Between 10 am and 2 pm, there is the most UV exposure. Outdoor activities like running are advised to be avoided during these times.
Once a year, visit a dermatologist
If you have a low risk of developing skin cancer, this examination could be combined with a routine checkup to talk about skin conditions like eczema or acne. This will probably need to be a second appointment if you are at higher risk.
Once a month, examine your skin, paying particular attention to your nails, palms, and soles. This will help you determine “what is normal.” If there are any lesions present, giving these regions a general once-a-month inspection will help you focus your attention on any new or shifting lesions.
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