Pharrell Wants You to Use (Sun) Protection
Brand: Humanrace
Product: Ozone Face Protection Daily Moisturizer, Ozone Body Protection Cream
Release: July 14, 2022
Buy: Online at Humanrace's website
Editor's Notes: Pharrell understands the importance of protection — sun protection, that is.
The rapper's brand, Humanrace, just launched two SPF 30 sunscreens — one for the face and one for the body — in the hopes of educating consumers on value of UV protection, no matter the weather or your skin tone.
"The biggest misconception is that deeper skin tones don't need sunscreen," said Dr. Elena Jones, Humanrace's chief dermatologist and Pharrell's personal dermatologist of 20 years. "No matter what color your skin is, all skin tones need a daily sunscreen, rain or shine."
The myth that dark skin can go without sunscreen originates from the fact that melanin — the substance that produces pigment in the skin, eyes and hair — helps absorb harmful UV rays. Basically: the darker your skin is, the less likely you are to get sunburned.
But melanated skin is still susceptible to the effects of sun damage, including dark spots, wrinkles, and skin cancer.
Because there's less awareness surrounding the necessity of sunscreen for dark-skinned people, Black patients are more likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer at a later stage, resulting in a worse prognosis. In fact, a study conducted by the CDC showed that the five-year- melanoma survival rate among Black folks was 66.2 percent, compared with 90.1 percent for white people.
Thanks to Humanrace's latest launch, applying sunscreen doesn't have to be a chore. Both mineral-based formulas boast a lightweight, nearly whipped texture. Infused with the brand's signature snow mushroom extract, the products are moisturizing yet non-oily — after testing them out myself, I can see them working well on dry, oily, and combination skin.
Considering Pharrell's shockingly luminous skin, you'll want to heed his advice: sunscreen, always!
