It’s that time again, when hubby and I disappeared to the beach.  I can’t begin to tell you how many people I saw baking (you read it right, baking) in the midday sun and burning themselves to boot.

As black people we’re still under the spell that we can’t burn or that we don’t need a sunscreen.  Before we left for this trip, I saw a young lady at the gas station and because she had a dark complexion she felt that she was protected from the sun.  Not So.  She had exposed herself to so much sun until  her face was burned.  She was asking my husband about his hair.  (He wears his locs below his backside)  When he explained what we use and what our company is all about, she then began to question him about our line.  By this time I was coming out of the store and he turned the conversation over to me.

What do you think I suggested to her?  That’s right, I told her that she might want to consider wearing a sunscreen.

Do you realize that black skin will not show signs of skin cancer as quickly as other ethnic groups because of it’s melanin content, therefore having advanced in stages of cancer before we realize the damage.  Do you need an SPF 70, probably not but an SPF 30 will be a great place to start and shorter time periods in the sun.

So often,  you can find a good moisturizer with an SPF 30 or higher.  These are great for everyday use but for the beach get yourself a straight up sunscreen or sunblock

While you’re playing on the beach remember, you have to reapply your sunscreen whenever you come out of the water.  If you feel you must participate in the noon day sun, wear a beautiful sun hat with a wide brim.  That’s after you apply your sunscreen.

Dedicated to Your Beauty,

Juliette Samuel,

Esthetician/Publisher

NYRAJU Skin Care – Providers of Natural Skin Care Products for the African American Market