Why mixed skin in the Indian Ocean must protect from the sun
A false sense of protection
It is common to hear that mixed or dark skin does not need sunscreen. This belief, very widespread in tropical areas such as Mayotte, Mauritius, or Réunion Island, is mistaken and potentially dangerous.
It is true that skin rich in melanin is less prone to immediate sunburn, as melanin partially absorbs UVB. It is estimated that such skin has a natural protection factor (SPF) equivalent to 13 or 16.
But this relative protection is far from sufficient, especially given the intensity of solar radiation in intertropical zones. Contrary to a persistent idea, UV rays continue to penetrate deeply, particularly UVA, which are responsible for premature aging and pigment disorders.
Real sun risks for mixed skin
1. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Mixed skin exhibits high melanocyte activity. This means that the slightest inflammation (pimple, sting, microtrauma) can trigger an overproduction of melanin, causing persistent dark spots.
Sun exposure acts as a catalyst: UV rays further stimulate melanocytes, worsening existing spots or creating new ones. This reaction is well known as PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation), and it is particularly frequent in skin types IV to VI.
Good to know: a study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology showed that the sun increased pigment intensity by 2 to 3 times in unprotected mixed or dark skin.
2. Premature skin aging
Contrary to popular belief, dark skin also ages—but differently. UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis, degrading collagen and elastin. Result: loss of firmness, pronounced wrinkles around the eyes and forehead, and early sagging of the facial contour.
3. Uneven tone and dullness
Repeated sun exposure can disrupt melanin distribution, creating hyperpigmented (too much melanin) or hypopigmented (localized depigmentation) areas. This results in uneven skin tone, often difficult to correct without targeted care.
Tropical climate: an aggravating context
The Indian Ocean is classified as an area with extreme UV radiation, especially between September and April. But that's not all.
This climate combines several aggravating factors:
- Intense UV rays year-round, even during rainy seasons.
- Constant humidity, weakening the skin barrier.
- Increased sweating, disrupting the hydrolipidic film and making skin more vulnerable.
- High solar reflection, particularly on beaches or at altitude.
In this context, protecting your skin is not a matter of comfort, but of active prevention.
What sun protection for mixed skin in tropical climates?
Sun protection for mixed skin must meet specific criteria:
| Specific need | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB filtration | To prevent spots, aging, and PIH |
| Light texture, no white cast | To suit darker phototypes |
| Tolerance to hot and humid climates | To avoid shine and occlusion |
| Presence of anti-spot or antioxidant actives | For enhanced preventive action |
If you are looking for a solution specifically formulated for mixed skin living in tropical climates
Practical tips for effective protection
- Apply sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days.
- Reapply every 2–3 hours in case of heat, sweating or swimming.
- Don't forget exposed areas: eye contour, temples, nape, back of hands.
- Complement with oral supplements (zinc, vitamin C, carotenoids…).
Some nutricosmetic formulas can help protect skin from within. If you're interested in a full in & out routine for sun protection.
Explore this in & out sun routine
Summary
| Common belief | What you need to know |
|---|---|
| “Dark skin is naturally protected.” | Yes, but not enough against UVA and PIH. |
| “The sun doesn’t leave marks on my skin.” | It accelerates aging and worsens pigmentation spots. |
| “All sunscreens leave a white cast.” | Some are invisible even on dark skin—you just need to choose well. |
To explore a suitable solution