Dark Skin: Texas Trackers Hiding Heat Harm?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 12, 2026

The Texas sun doesn’t discriminate. Many Texans with darker skin tones mistakenly believe their melanin provides complete protection from sun damage. This dangerous misconception leads to inadequate sun protection, increasing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Let’s debunk this myth and equip you with the knowledge and tools to stay safe while enjoying the Texas outdoors.

Melanin does offer some natural protection. However, it’s far from a bulletproof shield.

Think of melanin as SPF 4, maybe SPF 13 at best. That’s nowhere near enough for the intense Texas sun, especially during peak hours.

For Texans enjoying outdoor activities like tracking deer near Fredericksburg, hunting dove in Uvalde, or hiking the trails of Big Bend Ranch State Park, proper sun protection is non-negotiable.

Here’s a breakdown of how to protect your skin:

• SPF is Your Friend: Don’t skimp on sunscreen.

  • Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
  • Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
  • Look for water-resistant formulas, especially if you’ll be sweating.
  • Consider brands like Black Girl Sunscreen or Unsun Cosmetics, formulated specifically for darker skin tones to avoid the dreaded white cast.
  • You can find these at most Targets or Walmarts in major Texas cities.

• Application is Key: Slather it on correctly.

  • Apply sunscreen liberally 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.
  • Don’t be shy; use about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
  • Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
  • Pay attention to often-missed areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.
  • Use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips.

• Protective Clothing is Essential: Fabric is your first line of defense.

  • Wear long sleeves and pants whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
  • Choose tightly woven fabrics that offer better sun protection.
  • Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating.
  • Wide-brimmed hats are crucial for protecting your face, ears, and neck.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection will shield your eyes from harmful rays.

• Timing Matters: Avoid peak sun hours.

  • Plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense.
  • Seek shade whenever possible, especially during midday.
  • Remember that UV rays can penetrate clouds, so sun protection is still necessary on overcast days.

• Hydration is Crucial: Sun and sweat dehydrate you.

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
  • Dehydration can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it frequently.

• Don’t Forget Your Scalp: Protect your part.

  • If you have thinning hair or a visible scalp, apply sunscreen to these areas.
  • Consider wearing a hat or scarf to provide additional protection.
  • Sunscreen sprays designed for hair can also be helpful.

Common mistakes Texans make:

• Underestimating the Texas Sun: The intensity of the sun in Texas is often underestimated, even by long-time residents.
• Relying Solely on Melanin: As mentioned earlier, melanin provides limited protection.
• Not Applying Enough Sunscreen: Most people don’t use nearly enough sunscreen to achieve the stated SPF.
• Forgetting to Reapply: Sunscreen wears off over time, especially when sweating or swimming.
• Ignoring Protective Clothing: Clothing is a simple and effective way to block UV rays.
• Thinking Sunscreen is Only for Sunny Days: UV rays are present even on cloudy days.
• Using Expired Sunscreen: Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date before use.
• Not Protecting Lips and Eyes: These areas are often overlooked but are vulnerable to sun damage.

Challenges and Pitfalls:

• Finding Sunscreen That Doesn’t Leave a White Cast: Many sunscreens leave a chalky residue on darker skin tones. Look for mineral sunscreens with tinted formulas or chemical sunscreens that are specifically designed to blend in.
• Dealing with Oily Skin: Some sunscreens can clog pores and cause breakouts. Choose oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas.
• Finding Sunscreen That Feels Comfortable: Some sunscreens can feel greasy or heavy on the skin. Look for lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas.
• Remembering to Reapply: Set a timer on your phone to remind you to reapply sunscreen every two hours.
• Cost of Sunscreen: Sunscreen can be expensive, especially if you’re using it frequently. Look for sales and discounts, and consider buying in bulk.

Real-World Scenarios:

• Tracking Deer Near Fredericksburg: Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin before heading out. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re sweating.
• Hunting Dove in Uvalde: Wear long sleeves and pants made of tightly woven fabric. Apply sunscreen to your face, neck, and hands. Reapply sunscreen after handling birds.
• Hiking in Big Bend Ranch State Park: Wear a UPF-rated shirt and pants. Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin. Carry plenty of water and reapply sunscreen frequently. Seek shade during peak sun hours.

Specific Product Suggestions Readily Available in Texas:

• Black Girl Sunscreen: Available at Target and Walmart. Formulated for melanin-rich skin, it’s moisturizing and doesn’t leave a white cast.
• Unsun Cosmetics Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen: Available at Target and online. A mineral sunscreen with a tint that blends seamlessly into darker skin tones.
• Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen: Widely available at drugstores and supermarkets. A lightweight, oil-free sunscreen that absorbs quickly.
• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk: Available at drugstores and online. A broad-spectrum sunscreen that’s gentle enough for sensitive skin.
• Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm: Available at most convenience stores and supermarkets. Protects your lips from sun damage.

Don’t let the Texas sun catch you off guard. By understanding the limitations of melanin and adopting a comprehensive sun protection strategy, you can enjoy the outdoors safely and confidently. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Stay protected, Texas!