Sun protection for people with naturally very dark skin
People with naturally very dark skin (usually skin type 5 or 6) still need to take care in the sun even though they rarely, if ever, get sunburnt.
The larger amount of melanin in very dark skin provides natural protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This means the risk of skin cancer is lower, however skin cancers that do occur are often detected at a later, more dangerous, stage.
It is also important to remember that the risk of eye damage can occur regardless of skin type.
It is recommended that all people, regardless of skin type, wear a hat and sunglasses to protect their eyes when the UV is 3 and above. People with very dark skin do not normally need to apply sunscreen as they can often tolerate high levels of UV without getting burnt but this remains a personal judgment and individual decision.
Vitamin D deficiency may be a greater health concern for people with naturally very dark skin, as it is more difficult for people with this skin type to make vitamin D.
For more information download the factsheet on Vitamin D and UV radiation [pdf 102K].
Also refer to:
- Who is at risk of vitamin D deficiency?
- Skin types for more information on how to describe different skin types and the sunburn and skin cancer risk for each
