Do Black People Need Sunscreen? Separating Fact from Fiction
If you've ever heard someone say, "Black people don't need sunscreen," you're not alone.
For generations, many of us have been told that melanin protects us from the sun and that sunscreen is something only lighter-skinned people need. But is that actually true?
In this episode of the Curated Clinical Podcast, Dr. Allison Mathews, Marcus, and Bridget tackle one of the internet's most debated health topics: sunscreen, skin cancer, and melanated skin.
The conversation began with a viral social media claim suggesting that sunscreen causes cancer. While there have been recalls of certain sunscreen products due to contamination concerns, the team explores the difference between misinformation, scientific evidence, and what consumers need to know to make informed decisions.
Key Questions We Discuss
Can Black people get sunburned?
Absolutely. While melanin provides some natural protection against UV radiation, it does not eliminate the risk of sun damage, sunburn, premature aging, or skin cancer.
Does sunscreen cause cancer?
The answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. The team discusses product recalls involving benzene contamination and why it's important to understand the difference between a contaminated product and sunscreen as a whole.
What role does clinical research play?
Many of the products we use every day have been tested through research studies and clinical trials. Understanding how scientists determine whether an ingredient is safe helps us become better consumers and more informed healthcare decision-makers.
The Bigger Conversation: Health Misinformation
One of the most important themes from this episode is learning how to evaluate health information online.
From sunscreen to vitamin D supplements to nutrition advice, social media is filled with health claims. Some are helpful. Others can be misleading.
At Curated Clinical, we believe health information should be:
Evidence-based
Easy to understand
Culturally relevant
Grounded in real conversations
Bonus Topic: Food as Medicine
The conversation also explores nutrition, vitamin D, magnesium, and how food can support overall health.
From beets and heart health to vitamin deficiencies and the role of nutritionists, the episode highlights the importance of understanding how lifestyle, environment, and healthcare all work together to influence health outcomes.
The Bottom Line
Melanin offers some protection, but Black people can still experience sun damage and skin cancer. Sunscreen remains one of the most effective tools for protecting your skin, especially when paired with informed decision-making about the products you use.
Most importantly, don't rely on social media alone for your health information.
Ask questions.
Read credible sources.
Talk with healthcare professionals.
And stay curious.
🎙️ Listen to the full episode: Is Sunscreen Safe or Necessary for Melanated Skin?