Melanin, insufficient natural protection
Long considered naturally protected, dark skin nevertheless requires rigorous sun protection. Khamissa Xerri, founder of Enudium and creator of Nuru Spectrum sun cream, highlights this need through an in-depth analysis of scientific studies on the subject. Her expertise guides us towards a better understanding of the challenges of photoprotection for all.
While melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, offers a certain amount of protection against the sun (equivalent to an SPF of around 13 for dark skins vs. 3 for light skins), it is not enough to block all the harmful effects of UV rays. Black or dark-skinned people are less likely to suffer sunburn and develop less skin cancer than white-skinned people. However, they are not totally immune to the effects of UV rays. When skin cancer occurs in a dark-skinned person, it is often diagnosed at a more advanced, and therefore more serious, stage.
Beyond the risk of cancer, UV exposure, particularly UVA and high-energy visible light, can induce pigmentation disorders (dark spots, melasma) and premature skin aging, even in high phototypes. Yet studies show that dark-skinned people use sunscreens less frequently than fair-skinned people, partly because of the perception that it’s not necessary.
Sunscreen for everyone
In view of these findings, dermatologists insist on the importance of photoprotection for all skin types, including highly pigmented skin, in order to prevent such damage and improve early diagnosis of serious problems. Khamissa Xerri also points out that studies show that dark-skinned people use sunscreens less frequently than fair-skinned people, partly due to the perception that it’s not necessary.
Optimum sun protection
Khamissa Xerri, with her expertise and in-depth knowledge of the needs of melanin-rich skin, recommends the use of a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, with a broad spectrum (UVB and UVA), even for highly pigmented skin. Ideally, a tinted sunscreen (containing iron oxides) should also be used to protect against the visible light responsible for some hyperpigmentation. At the same time, adopting other measures (covering clothing, hats, avoiding the sun at peak hours) effectively completes photoprotection.
Nuru Spectrum, an adapted sun cream
Aware of these challenges, Khamissa Xerri created Enudium and its Nuru Spectrum sun care product, specially formulated for melanin-rich skin. This innovative product offers effective sun protection while combating pollution and inflammation, responding to the specific needs of this skin type.
The message is clear: sun protection is an issue for all skin types without exception – including black and dark skins – to preserve skin health and aesthetics over the long term. Thanks to Khamissa Xerri’s expertise and advances in research, it is now possible to effectively protect all skin tones and combat preconceived ideas.
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