Dark skin has a natural protection from sun exposure, but too much of it can still cause damage. Dark skin people can go darker if exposed to too much of the sun's UV rays due to the production of melanin in the skin. Long-term exposure to the sun can cause darkening of the skin, uneven skin tone, wrinkles, age spots, and other skin conditions. Sunscreen and protective clothing are important for anyone, but especially for dark skin people to avoid hyperpigmentation or permanent skin darkening. Taking precautions, such as wearing a broad-brimmed hat or sunglasses, can help dark skin people protect their skin from the sun.
Acne is a common skin condition, but it appears to be less common in people with darker skin tones. Research suggests that the melanin in dark skin may be protective against acne, and people with darker skin tend to have fewer of the hormones that trigger breakouts. Other factors, such as genetics, diet, and stress, may also play a role in why some people are more prone to acne than others.