Many people believe that dark skin can’t get damaged by the sun — but that’s not true. Yes, dark skin has some natural protection, but it can still suffer from sunburn, dark spots, early aging, and even skin cancer. That’s why dermatologists say everyone should use sunscreen with SPF 30 or more — no matter their skin tone.

Many sunscreens leave a white layer on the skin, which puts off people with darker skin from using them daily.

Fortunately, the beauty market has come a long way. Here are some great sunscreens that protect your skin — without leaving a white film.

Black Girl Sunscreen

Made specifically for darker skin tones, Black Girl Sunscreen is a favorite for good reason – it works. The lightweight formula goes on smoothly and leaves your skin soft, hydrated and glowing. It contains hydrating ingredients like jojoba and avocado oil which moisturize while shielding your skin from sun damage. Available in SPF 30 and a “Make It Glow” spray, it gives your skin a healthy shine without dulling your complexion.

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

Dermatologists adore EltaMD UV Clear because offers strong sun protection while also caring for your skin. The hybrid technology uses both mineral and chemical filters to offer broad-spectrum protection and niacinamide to calm redness and inflammation. It blends well into darker skin tones and doesn’t leave any white residue, but can also be used as a base layer to smooth out the skin.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Fluid SPF 50

Anthelios Mineral Tinted Fluid by La Roche-Posay offers powerful SPF 50 protection in a very light formula that disappears into the skin. Infused with iron oxide, it offers an added layer of protection against visible light — a major cause of hyperpigmentation in dark skin. The fluid texture is rapidly absorbed and delivers a natural, skin-like finish that is breathable all day long.

Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+

Perfect for people who are always on the move, Shiseido’s Clear Sunscreen Stick is a winner. Its transparent formula applies smoothly and unnoticed, which is perfect for deeper skin tones. Sweat- and water-resistant, it’s Ideal for gym days, outdoor events, or quick touch-ups — no mirror needed.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

Supergoop!’s well-named Unseen Sunscreen doesn’t disappoint. Its light, gel texture vanishes when applied, leaving only smooth, prepped skin. With broad-spectrum SPF 40 and oil-free wear, it’s a one-stop multitasking solution that disappears under makeup or worn alone for a soft, natural glow.

Paula’s Choice Calm Barrier Protect Mineral SPF 30

If you have sensitive skin, this sunscreen is a great choice. This gentle mineral sunscreen is effective, reliable, and will neither irritate nor overwhelm sensitive skin. Free from harsh ingredients, it glides over darker skin tones effortlessly and fortifies the skin’s own barrier with calming, restoring ingredients — an excellent option for eczema or inflammation issues.

Tatcha The Silk Sunscreen SPF 50

Performance meets luxury in Tatcha’s The Silk Sunscreen. With SPF 50 powered by advanced mineral technology, it glides on the skin with a silky, weightless texture that complements deeper skin tones. As well as protection, Its hydrating formula is packed with antioxidants and plant extracts, a little bit of skincare paradise with every use.

Dark skin may be less likely to burn, but it can still be damaged by the sun. The perfect sunscreen offers full-spectrum protection without sacrificing your natural glow — no chalky tint, no greasiness, no compromise. With these top picks, protection has never looked so beautiful.

Forget the beauty aisle—your journey to radiant, youthful skin might begin in the grocery store. While retinol creams are praised for reducing wrinkles and boosting skin renewal, many people overlook a powerful fact: what you eat can be effective—if not more—than what you apply. A diet rich in retinol and vitamin A doesn’t just support healthy skin; it helps your body fight aging from the inside out, naturally and sustainably.

Why Retinol Matters
Retinol is a form of vitamin A and is known for speeding up cell turnover, boosting collagen, and reducing fine lines. While topical retinol is popular, it can be harsh for sensitive skin. Eating foods rich in retinol offers a gentler, long-term solution that supports skin health from within—no irritation, no side effects.

1. Egg Yolks: Easy and Effective

Eggs are an everyday staple with skin benefits hiding in the yolk. Rich in retinol and healthy fats, they’re a simple, affordable way to support glowing skin.

2. Liver: Nature’s Retinol Bomb
Beef and chicken liver top the charts for natural retinol content. Just one serving delivers daily recommended vitamin A intake. Though not everyone enjoys it. liver is a true powerhouse for skin renewal.

3. Whole Milk & Butter: Fat-Soluble Goodness

Dairy products like milk, butter, and cheese contain preformed vitamin A (retinol), and their fat content helps your body absorb it better. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

4. Carrots: Beta-Carotene in Colour
Their bright orange hue signals a high beta-carotene content, which the body converts into vitamin A. Whether raw, roasted, or juiced, carrots are an easy win for your skin.

5. Sweet Potatoes: Comfort Food for Your Complexion

Sweet, satisfying, and rich in beta-carotene, sweet potatoes help repair skin and boost moisture from the inside.

6. Leafy Greens: Skin-Saving Superfoods
Spinach and kale aren’t just good for your heart—they’re loaded with skin-friendly nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin C, and antioxidants that protect and renew.

7. Red Bell Peppers: Crunchy Collagen Support

These colorful veggies pack both beta-carotene and vitamin C, helping to stimulate collagen and smooth out wrinkles.

8. Mangoes & Cantaloupe: Sweet Skin Boosters

These fruits don’t just taste good—they hydrate your skin and deliver a beta-carotene punch to help even out tone and texture.

The Bottom Line
Creams treat the symptoms; food treats the root cause. A retinol-rich diet not only supports your skin’s natural glow but also improves overall health. So next time you think about skincare, don’t just reach for the bottle—reach for your fork. The real glow-up starts in your kitchen.

Nigeria’s beauty industry is growing fast, with skincare leading the way. International brands no longer hold all the power—Nigerian skincare brands are stepping up, creating products tailored to African skin, climate, and concerns. From fighting dark spots to achieving a natural glow, these brands prove that “Made in Nigeria” stands for quality, innovation, and results.

If you want authentic, high-performing skincare, here are six Nigerian brands making waves in 2025 that deserve a spot in your routine:

1. Arami Essentials – Minimalist, Natural, and Effective

Founded by Ore Runsewe, Arami Essentials has built a reputation for its simple yet luxurious skincare products made from raw, organic ingredients. The brand focuses on minimalist formulations that nourish and protect the skin without unnecessary additives.

Top products include:

✓ Glow Oil – A lightweight body oil that locks in hydration and gives a dewy glow.

✓ Onyx Polish (Black Soap Scrub) – A deep-cleansing scrub made from African black soap.

✓ Elixir Body Mist – Nourishes skin while providing a refreshing natural scent.

Why we love it: It’s eco-friendly, vegan, great for sensitive skin, and uses locally sourced ingredients.

2. Skin by Zaron – Where Science Meets Skincare

Zaron, founded by Oke Maduewesi, is a well-known Nigerian beauty brand that expanded into skincare with Skin by Zaron, offering scientifically formulated products designed for melanin-rich skin. Their products target hydration, acne control, and brightening.

Top products include:

✓ Skin Regenerating Hydrating Serum – Boosts skin moisture and plumps fine lines.

✓ Balancing Face Toner – Reduces excess oil while refining pores.

✓ Ultimate Glow Brightening Face Cream – Fades dark spots and evens out skin tone.

Why we love it: Affordable, effective, and perfect for Nigeria’s humid weather.

3. R&R Luxury – Shea Butter Royalty

Founded by Valerie Obaze, R&R Luxury (Radiance and Renewal) is all about shea butter and African botanicals that promote radiant skin. Their products are deeply nourishing and ideal for hydration and skin repair.

Top products include:

✓ Shea Oil – A multipurpose oil for skin and hair hydration.

✓ Liquid Black Soap – A gentle cleanser perfect for acne-prone skin.

✓ Lavender Shea Butter – A soothing moisturizer infused with calming lavender.

Why we love it: Sustainable luxury rooted in African traditions, with rich and moisturizing formulas.

4. Bath Kandy – Skincare That Looks Like Dessert

Founded by Blondie Okpuzor, Bath Kandy is one of Nigeria’s most exciting skincare brands, delivering products made with natural ingredients in the ‘yummiest’ ways. Inspired by desserts, their products make skincare fun while remaining highly effective.

Top products include:

✓ Cake Soap – A soap that looks like a slice of cake.

✓ Cookie Scrub – A scrub that looks like a cookie.

✓ Ice Cream Soap – A soap that looks like a scoop of ice cream.

Why we love it: Creative packaging, eco-friendly ingredients, and an indulgent bath-time experience.

5. Narganics – Organic Luxury

Founded in 2016 by Susan Tobor Akinyooye, Narganics is a natural and organic skincare and fragrance brand. All its products are handmade with ingredients sourced from Africa and beyond.

Top products include:

✓ Body Soufflé – A whipped body butter that melts into the skin.

✓ Body Scrub – A sugar scrub that gently buffs away dead skin cells.

✓ Body Mist – A refreshing spray that hydrates and scents the skin.

Why we love it: Handmade, ethically sourced, with luxurious textures and divine scents.

6. Ajali – Handmade, Cruelty-Free Skincare

Founded by Ifeyinwa Ojekwe, Ajali is a spa-quality skincare brand offering products crafted from raw, organic ingredients. Their formulations focus on hydration, exfoliation, and skin renewal.

Top products include:

✓ Lemon & Vanilla Body Scrub – Brightens and smoothens the skin.

✓ Whipped Shea Butter – Deeply moisturizes and protects the skin.

✓ Coconut & Honey Face Mask – Hydrates and soothes irritated skin.

Why we love it: 100% natural, handmade, and perfect for dry or sensitive skin.

Conclusion

These six brands are leading the charge in Nigeria’s skincare industry, proving that local products can compete with global giants. Whether you’re looking for hydration, brightening, acne control, or indulgent self-care, these brands have something for you.

So, if you’re ready to upgrade your skincare game with products made for your skin, by your own people, these Nigerian brands are the perfect place to start. Each one offers something special—whether it’s hydration, glow, or gentle care. Support local. Invest in your skin. Start your glow journey today.

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