Misconceptions, Representation, and Collaboration in Skin of Color Dermatology

Shontay Lundy, founder and creator of Black Girl Sunscreen, believes improving sun protection among patients with skin of color requires more than developing cosmetically elegant products—it demands greater education, representation, and collaboration across the dermatology community. Speaking with Dermatology Times, Lundy addressed persistent misconceptions surrounding sunscreen use in patients with skin of color and discussed how dermatologists, estheticians, researchers, and industry partners can work together to improve skin cancer prevention and overall skin health.

Lundy said the most common misconception remains the belief that individuals with darker skin do not need sunscreen because they do not burn. While she acknowledged this misconception extends beyond skin of color—many lighter-skinned individuals who tan rather than burn also underestimate their UV risk—she emphasized that sun damage in melanated skin often presents differently. Rather than noticing acute erythema, patients may not recognize damage until peeling or other delayed signs appear after prolonged sun exposure.

She also highlighted cultural practices that influence perceptions of sun protection. In many parts of the world, people have historically relied on protective clothing, hats, umbrellas, and shade rather than sunscreen. As a result, some individuals question why sunscreen is necessary when previous generations protected themselves using different methods.

Another misconception, according to Lundy, is that sunscreen's only purpose is skin cancer prevention. While acknowledging that cancer prevention remains critical, she noted that many consumers overlook additional cosmetic benefits, including helping maintain an even complexion and minimizing photoaging. She suggested these benefits are often underemphasized in public messaging.

For dermatologists and other health care professionals, Lundy emphasized that increasing representation throughout research, marketing, and patient education is essential. She encouraged broader inclusion of patients with diverse skin tones in clinical research and educational materials so more individuals can recognize themselves in sun protection campaigns.

“It just starts with representation…and when I say representation matters, it’s not just about color, but it’s about gender, age, lifestyle,” she said.

Lundy also stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between dermatologists and estheticians, noting that estheticians are often patients' first point of contact for skin care concerns, while dermatologists play a critical role in reinforcing evidence-based recommendations. Together, she said, these professionals can consistently promote sunscreen use, annual skin examinations, and routine preventive skin care.

Although she acknowledged growing entrepreneurial interest within dermatology, Lundy encouraged clinicians to remain focused on patient education and public health. Ultimately, she argued that conversations about sunscreen should extend beyond individual brands and marketing campaigns to emphasize lifelong skin health, routine preventive care, and equitable access to education for all patients.

“Everybody needs to hold hands when it comes to the conversation of sun safety, sunscreen, and how to use it properly,” she concluded. “It's bigger than a marketing story; your skin health is extremely important to your life.”

To hear the full conversation, listen to the latest episode of The Cutaneous Connection.