Photo from Simply SunSafe

Many believe that people with a dark complexion do not have to wear sunscreen. While it is true that people with darker skin have more protection against ultraviolet radiation (UVR), it is still recommended to wear sunscreen. 

Melanocytes produce melanin, a molecule that protects your skin by absorbing or deflecting UV rays. Melanocytes produce more melanin after exposure to the sun, in particular after skin damage in the form of a sunburn. Sunburn occurs when skin is exposed to excessive UVR from the sun or in a tanning bed. 

People with light skin are more prone to sunburn because they have less melanin. But dark skinned individuals can also get sunburned because dark pigments do not block out 100% of UV rays. 

No matter your skin color, it is recommended that you wear sunscreen for prolonged sun exposure because damaging sun exposure increases your chance of developing skin cancer.

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/sunburn-beyond-the-basics

https://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-you/health/summer-health-myths/

https://qsun.co/should-i-wear-sunscreen-if-i-have-dark-skin/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/eumelanin

https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-melanocyte-1069513

https://medium.com/getsundots/how-does-our-skin-protect-us-b93bdd4e00e2