By Chilaeya Ezell

Confession. I, a thirty-something black woman, wear sunscreen - every day. Feel free to insert a dramatic pause and a deep, audible exhale here.

I, too, once subscribed to the notion that "black people don't need sunscreen because our melanin protects us," "black don't crack," and "black people can't get sunburn ." And even after I did get sunburn - which was painful and resulted in my skin peeling for days and remaining tender even longer - sunscreen was rarely a thought.

Everyone can benefit from sunscreen and should wear it. Yes, my black brothers and sisters, even us. Dermatologists and estheticians agree that while black skin contains more melanin, a natural skin protectant, it only blocks UV light up to SPF 13, which leaves a significant gap as a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 is recommended to protect the skin sufficiently. A Huffpost article quotes dermatologist Dr. Sheel Desai Solomon, "While darker skin does not burn as easily, it's the damage you can't see right away that is particularly worrisome." Damage can range from hyperpigmentation to sunburn to cancer.

With this in mind, I began a journey of research and experimentation. After reading countless reviews, comparing ingredient lists, and purchasing various products, I settled on one sunscreen that outperformed them all: Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30.

What is the best type of sunscreen? Whether a cream, gel, or spray, experts agree that the best type is the one you will use consistently.

Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 comes in a cream that glides on effortlessly and is absorbed quickly without that irritating residue that turns darker skin gray and leaves white streaks on lighter skin. I read many reviews on sunscreen options, and residue streaks were a common concern. As a year-long user of Black Girl Sunscreen, I'm happy to report no residue streaks on my skin or clothes. After twelve months of using this product, I have remained amazed.

Now, if creams aren't your jam, no worries. The Black Girl Sunscreen product line includes sprays and lip gloss containing SPF to protect your skin while leaving you looking your best.

What makes this sunscreen stand out from others? It warrants mentioning again that Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 does not leave that grayish-white residue. None!

Additionally, with infusions of jojoba and avocado, this sunscreen doubles as a moisturizing lotion that hydrates the skin, helping prevent acne and reducing premature aging. With the help of cacao, it also promotes smooth, consistent skin.

Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 is also fragrance-free and has a sheer application. When I apply it to my skin, I notice a soft glow, so most days, I don't use makeup, instead opting to bask in how the sunscreen highlights my complexion. However, the makeup application was easy immediately after massaging the sunscreen on my face and neck.

But wait… there's more! Black Girl Sunscreen has a recycling program. It is a five-step process, including completing the recycling program form, printing the provided shipping label, and mailing back at least two empty bottles. Once your empty bottles are received, Black Girl Sunscreen handles recycling.

Is Black Girl Sunscreen the best? Of course, the best sunscreen becomes a part of your regular self-care routine, and Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 takes the cake for me.

For a complete product list and to find what could be your perfect sunscreen match, visit https://www.blackgirlsunscreen.com/.

You can purchase Black Girl Sunscreen directly from their website or one of the major retailers, such as Target, CVS, or HEB.