**Denver's Dark Skin: Altitude Lies About SPF Gains?**
By Franklin Everett ShawForget everything you think you know about sunscreen. Especially if you’re a Denver resident with darker skin.
The Mile High City’s altitude, combined with the persistent Colorado sun, creates a UV radiation double whammy. And melanin, while offering some protection, isn’t a free pass to skip sun protection.
This isn’t your average sunscreen spiel. This is a survival guide tailored for melanin-rich skin in Denver’s unique environment.
Let’s dive in.
First, let’s debunk a dangerous myth: darker skin doesn’t need sunscreen. It’s simply untrue. While melanin does offer a degree of natural SPF (around SPF 13, at best), it’s nowhere near enough to protect against the intense UV exposure at Denver’s altitude.
Think of it like this: your skin has a built-in shield, but Denver’s sun is firing laser beams. You need to reinforce that shield.
The Fitzpatrick scale is a useful tool for understanding your skin’s sun sensitivity. It classifies skin types from I (very fair) to VI (very dark). Even those with Fitzpatrick type VI skin (deeply pigmented) are still susceptible to sun damage, including sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
So, what SPF should you be reaching for in Denver? The answer isn’t a one-size-fits-all.
For everyday use in Denver, aim for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn, while UVA rays contribute to aging and skin cancer.
But here’s where it gets specific. If you’re hitting Red Rocks for a concert or a hike, you need to amp up your protection. The sun reflecting off those red rocks intensifies the UV exposure.
For Red Rocks activities, go for an SPF 50 or higher. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating.
And what about skiing or snowboarding in Summit County? The altitude is even higher, and the snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays. This is a recipe for a serious sunburn, even on a cloudy day.
For skiing, choose a water-resistant, broad-spectrum SPF 50 or higher. Don’t forget your lips! Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher. Reapply religiously throughout the day.
Now, let’s talk product recommendations. Many sunscreens leave a white cast on darker skin tones. This is due to the zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, the active ingredients in mineral sunscreens.
Fortunately, there are excellent options available in Colorado that minimize or eliminate the white cast.
Look for tinted mineral sunscreens. These contain pigments that blend seamlessly with darker skin tones. Black Girl Sunscreen is a popular and readily available option at Target and Ulta stores in the Denver area.
Another great choice is Unsun Cosmetics Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen. It’s specifically formulated for darker skin and provides excellent protection. You can find it at Sephora stores in Denver.
Chemical sunscreens are another option, but some people find them irritating. If you prefer a chemical sunscreen, look for clear formulas that won’t leave a white cast. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is a popular choice, available at Sephora.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying sunscreen effectively:
- Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before sun exposure. This allows it to bind to your skin.
- Use a generous amount. Most people don’t use enough sunscreen. Aim for about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body.
- Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.
- Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.
- Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate the clouds. Wear sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather.
A common mistake is relying solely on sunscreen. Sunscreen is just one part of sun protection.
Other important strategies include:
- Seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm).
- Wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Another pitfall is assuming that because you haven’t burned, you haven’t been damaged. Sun damage accumulates over time. Even without a visible sunburn, UV exposure can lead to premature aging and skin cancer.
Don’t fall for the “base tan” myth. A tan is a sign that your skin has been damaged by UV radiation. There’s no such thing as a healthy tan.
Finally, remember that sunscreen expires. Check the expiration date on your sunscreen and discard it if it’s past its expiration date. Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time.
Living in Denver offers incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation. But it also requires a heightened awareness of sun protection, especially for those with darker skin tones.
By understanding the risks, choosing the right SPF, and applying sunscreen correctly, you can enjoy the Colorado sunshine safely and protect your skin for years to come. Don’t let the myth of melanin protection fool you. Be proactive, be informed, and be sun-safe.