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Combatting melasma and hyperpigmentation demands a multifaceted approach, and selecting the right sunscreen becomes a crucial part of this skincare regimen.
In this comprehensive guide, discover a curated list of top-notch sunscreens for melasma and hyperpigmentation. These products are designed explicitly to address melasma and hyperpigmentation concerns across various skin types.
From potent formulations containing azelaic acid and antioxidants to those guarding against UVA, UVB, and visible light, explore a range of specialized sunscreens tailored to promote skin protection and minimize the appearance of dark spots.
The best sunscreens for melasma and hyperpigmentation for any skin type
1. Ducray Melascreen Protective Anti-spot Fluid SPF50+
Essential care for preventing and eliminating brown spots is Ducray Melascreen Anti-Stain Protective Fluid SPF50+.
As with most dark spot care, this sunscreen for melasma contains azelaic acid, with antioxidant action, allowing defense against oxidative stress and depigmenting action present in brown spots.
Furthermore, it has the patented TRIASORB™, providing high SPF50+ protection with a broad spectrum, protecting the effects against UVB/UVA radiation and blue light up to 450 nm.
With a light texture, it is perfect for normal to combination skin, however, we find the most nutritious version, suitable for drier skin.
It is a compatible formula for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and is non-comedogenic, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions. Additionally, it is fragrance-free and water-resistant. Therefore, an excellent makeup base, which prevents photoaging, while reducing brown spots.
To improve results, it is essential to add treatment to your routine! The brand presents Ducray Melascreen Anti-Dark Spot Concentrate, which includes hesperidin methyl chalcone, whose function is to reduce the size of blood vessels, azelaic acid that regulates the production of melanin and glycolic acid that promotes the elimination of superficial dead cells.
2. La Roche Posay Anthelios Pigment Correct Tinted Cream SPF50+ Medium
With detailed knowledge of the influence of UV radiation as the main responsible for worsening hyperpigmentation, as well as visible light, La Roche Posay developed La Roche Posay Anthelios Pigment Correct Tinted Cream SPF50.
This is one of the best sunscreens for melasma targets for the development of this type of pigmentation irregularity.
CELLOX-B3 TECH and niacinamide reduce hyperpigmentation caused by visible light by 50%. In addition to preventing blemishes, the formula contains a ceramide that minimizes pigmentation itself, the ingredient Procerad.
The pigments in the formula provide a universal color, uniform skin tone, and the appearance of blemishes, as they protect against visible radiation as well as a broad spectrum of protection.
This is a great option from La Roche-Posay that corrects these injuries with clinically proven results.
3. Bioderma Photoderm Spot-age Anti-dark Spot Gel-cream SPF50+
Developed by the specific association of three complementary biological active ingredients, vitamin C, vitamin E, and Centella Asiatica, Bioderma launched Photoderm SPOT-AGE SPF50+, a really effective sunscreen for hyperpigmentation.
The antioxidant action provided by vitamin C is enhanced with the addition of Vitamin E, providing a reinforced action in defending sun damage, and preventing new blemishes.
Centella Asiatica prevents changes in the dermis and accelerates skin cell regeneration. In addition to this trio, the presence of the “active solar defense” patent reinforces the skin’s defenses, avoiding the impacts of UVA rays. A sunscreen that protects and hydrates for up to 8 hours.
4. Bioderma Photoderm M Clarifying Gel-cream SPF50+ Brown
But it’s not the only brand targeting blemishes, Bioderma Photoderm M SPF50+ can also be used!
With the same patented technology, it reinforces the skin’s self-defense capabilities and the presence of Cellular Bioprotection™ that stimulates the skin’s natural defenses and prevents premature aging. Additionally, it includes:
- glabridin, a tyrosinase inhibitor, inhibits melanin production;
- vitamin E with antioxidant action, protects against free radicals; DAF patent strengthens skin resistance;
- physical sun filters obtained, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide reinforce protection against UVB and UVA rays.
In short, this is a good sunscreen for melasma and hyperpigmentation with a fluid gel texture, non-sticky and resistant to water and heat, makes this sunscreen perfect for daily use on oily and sensitive skin.
5. Sensilis Photocorrection D-pigment 50+ Blurring Mousse
One of the most recent launches in this area is Sensilis PhotoCorrection D-Pigment 50+, the first sunscreen mousse with SPF 50+, which reduces blemishes on the most sensitive skin and protects against UVA, UVB, and blue light.
Clinical studies carried out by the brand demonstrate a 16% reduction in dark spots in just 2 months, thanks to the presence of several ingredients:
- Salvia Sclaream Bioferment Extract, with a depigmenting and antioxidant character;
- Stabilized Vitamin C increases skin luminosity;
- Vitamin E contributes to the prevention of skin aging and uniformity of skin tone.
It is an ideal sunscreen for hyperpigmentation and to treat blemished and sensitive skin!
To enhance the results, we can combine Sensilis Skin D-Pigment Serum TXA B3 treatment with 2% tranexamic acid that prevents melanin synthesis, 10% niacinamide that reduces melanization, and 3% azeloglycine that maintains a uniform skin tone.
6. Eucerin Sun Fluid Pigment Control Spf50+
With a light and pleasant texture even for the most sensitive skin, Eucerin Pigment Control Tinted Sun Gel-Cream SPF50+ appears.
Considered by many a good sunscreen for brown skin, the Eucerin Sun Fluid sunscreen prevents and reduces sunspots. In the composition, we find several key ingredients to fight melasma and hyperpigmentation.
Thiamidol is a patented active ingredient that reduces melanin production and prevents its reappearance.
Licochalcone, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, reduces redness, soothes the skin, and protects it from free radicals generated by radiation.
To complete the action, the presence of glycyrrhetinic acid that allows the repair of the skin’s DNA. As a last note, this sunscreen can be found in tinted or untinted formulas, adapting to the skin’s needs.
Eucerin also has a treatment for blemishes, Eucerin Anti-Pigment Dual Serum, so you can complement this sunscreen.
7. Heliocare 360º Pigment Solution Fluid SPF50+
The Heliocare 360º is a good hyperpigmentation product for darker skin tones and we will explain to you why.
With a depigmenting system, consisting of Azeclair and Niacinamide, Heliocare has 360º Pigment Solution Fluid SPF50+ is one of the greatest sunscreens for hyperpigmentation and melasma compatible with all skin types.
With high protection against UVA, UVB, and visible and infrared light, it reduces and prevents dark spots caused by sun exposure.
The patented Fernblock®, together with the depigmenting system, enhances the anti-stain action. This product, with a fluid texture and easy absorption, is water-resistant and does not leave white marks.
Read also: Does sunscreen prevent tanning?
8. Uriage Bariésun Anti-brown Spot Fluid SPF50+
Uriage also has a sunscreen for hyperpigmented skin, Uriage Bariésun Anti-Brown Spot Fluid SPF50+.
In the composition, we observe the presence of the Cx complex, in which ingredients such as pea and sucrose extracts, vitamin C derivative, Uriage thermal water, and enoxolone are part of it!
Furthermore, the Anti-UVA-UVB filtering complex guarantees photostability and high coverage, as well as the presence of the Protection Shield technology developed by the brand, with the [TELOMERES PROTECT] patent, which prevents photoaging and cell damage triggered by UV rays. and blue light.
A fragrance-free and non-comedogenic fluid, therefore, suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive.
9. Bella Aurora Anti-dark Spots Fluid Sunscreen Normal To Dry Skin SPF50+
The brand dedicated to spot treatments, Bella Aurora, developed the Anti-Dark Spots Fluid Sunscreen.
This hyperpigmentation treatment includes curcumin extract, with antioxidant action, increases luminosity and evens out tone.
This formula also features Thermus thermophillus yeast that protects the skin from infrared radiation and a double-sphere encapsulated solar filter system for greater protection against UVA/UVB and HEV and infrared (IR) solar radiation.
Its non-sticky gel-cream texture makes it ideal for combination/oily skin.
10. Apivita Suncare Anti-spot Face Cream SPF50
Apivita is dedicated to developing sunscreens that respect the skin and the marine ecosystem, with active biodegradable ingredients, and do not include sunscreens that are harmful to corals.
One of the brand’s sunscreens that focuses on blemishes is Suncare Anti-Spot Face Cream SPF50. This product contains several powerful ingredients, such as seaweed, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid for a calming, moisturizing, and anti-aging action, sea fennel and achillea extract reduce dark spots.
Chemical sunscreens provide the skin with photostable protection. With a light texture, it is vegan and offers high protection, compatible with the most sensitive skin.
11. Neoretin Discrom Control Depigmenting Gel-cream SPF50
To diminish blemishes and signs of aging, the luxurious answer is Neoretin Discrom Control Gel-Cream SPF50.
At the heart of the formula is 1.1% RetinSphere® technology with retinoids to stimulate cell renewal, reduce expression lines, and brighten the skin. It also has vitamin C with antioxidant action and reduces dull skin.
The patented Whitening Booster System includes depigmenting active ingredients, which act in the different phases of melanin formation, preventing and reducing dark spots.
With a gel-cream texture, it is quickly absorbed, which gives a matte finish, perfect for combination to oily skin.
12. ISDIN Fotoultra 100 Spot Prevent Fusion Fluid SPF50+
If dark spots are persistent and you have sensitized skin, ISDIN has the answer, FotoUltra 100 Spot Prevent Fusion Fluid SPF50+.
We are talking about a great ISDIN skincare product that offers protection three times greater than the minimum required (Avobenzone and Tinosorb S filters), preventing the development of changes in pigmentation.
Enriched with calming active ingredients such as allantoin and panthenol that enhance the skin regeneration process; hyaluronic acid that fills and hydrates; and vitamin E with antioxidant action.
It has a fluid texture, which allows it to be quickly absorbed and merges quickly with the skin. It was developed for skin prone to the development of blemishes, pregnancy, or after aesthetic or dermatological procedures, laser treatments, or the use of photosensitizing products.
TIP: Recently, ISDIN launched Isdin Isdinceutics Melaclear Serum, a treatment product to reduce blemishes. Contains the new Spot Corrector complex with 4-butyl resorcinol, exfoliating acids, namely gluconolactone, salicylic, mandelic, and phytic acids. Additionally, 1.8% tranexamic acid and niacinamide prevent blemishes from forming. In short, to enhance results, after cleansing, apply the serum and finish with sunscreen.
13. ISDIN Fotoultra 100 Active Unify Color Spf50+
Another option from the brand is ISDIN FotoUltra 100 Active Unify Color SPF50+. A sunscreen that prevents and reduces blemishes, improving skin tone.
The formula highlights the DP3-Unify complex, which acts on the main stages of melanogenesis and reduces darker spots; in addition to vitamin E with antioxidant action, which protects against free radicals—a light suggestion, easy to apply, compatible with all skin types, including the most sensitive.
14. Sesderma Azelac Ru Lightening Fluid Depigmenting
Directly from Spanish laboratories and nanotechnology at the center of all research into its products, Sesderma Azelac Ru Fluid appears.
This Sesderma fluid cream was developed with hyperpigmented skin in mind, pregnant women, people with a high phototype, or people who suffer from skin sensitivity.
In the formula of this mineral sunscreen, we can find a blend of powerful ingredients such as the depigmenting combination of Azelaic Acid, Tranexamic Acid, and 4-butyl resorcinol directly inhibits melanogenesis and reduces dark spots; Ascorbyl Glucoside with antioxidant action brightens the skin; the growth factor TGF-beta2 prevents premature photoaging.
Furthermore, the mineral and organic filters reinforce protection, and the luminous pigments immediately illuminate the face!
TIP: To reduce blemishes more effectively, we can add the brand’s care in this regard, Sesderma Azelac RU Liposomal Serum. With azelaic acid and tranexamic acid with depigmenting action; retinol that promotes cell renewal; and antioxidants, vitamin E, and vitamin C to brighten the complexion. This is the anti-stain duo recommended by the brand.
15. Martiderm Pigment Zero Depigmenting Cream SPF50+
From Martiderm comes a good sunscreen for melasma and hyperpigmentation, Pigment Zero DSP-Cream SPF50+.
The MELA TSFK complex encompasses 4 depigmenting acids: tranexamic acid, salicylic acid, ferulic acid, and Kojic acid, which combine to reduce dark spots and prevent the formation of new ones.
Plus, niacinamide reinforces the skin barrier, and vitamin C that brightens the skin! A suggestion that reduces blemishes and prevents their appearance, while protecting the skin with a high protection factor (SPF 50+).
16. Uriage Bariésun Mineral Cream SPF50
Finally, a good sunscreen for body and face, with 100% mineral filters, is the Uriage Bariésun Mineral Cream SPF50+.
It has high protection against UVA and UVB rays, thanks to the presence of physical sun filters such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Includes the moisturizing trio, Aquaespongines, Glycerin, and Uriage Thermal Water, which reduce water loss and skin discomfort.
Furthermore, the antioxidant action is provided by vitamin C and vitamin E, which protect the skin from free radicals and oxidative damage. A combination that allows protection for any skin, including the most sensitive.
How to choose the ideal sunscreen for hyperpigmentation and melasma?
When we are exposed to the sun, UV rays stimulate tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for color intensity, with the production of melanin.
With increased sun exposure, the amount of melanin produced by the skin increases and spots appear in the areas most exposed to the sun, such as the face, neckline, neck, hands, and shoulders!
Additionally, it has recently been discovered that visible light, in particular blue light, can also cause hyperpigmentation. So, when choosing a sunscreen for hyperpigmentation and melasma, what should we opt for?
- High protection against UVA, UVB, visible light, and infrared
- Tinted sunscreens help hide blemishes and reinforce protection against damage caused by blue light.
- Protectors that include depigmenting active ingredients, such as azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, retinoids, thiamidol, niacinamide, glabridin, antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, resveratrol), plant extracts, AHAs (such as glycolic and lactic acid).
FAQ
Does sunscreen help with melasma?
Yes, it does! The first step to reducing dark spots is to apply sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days or in winter. It is essential to choose a sunscreen with a high SPF and suitable for your skin type so that it is comfortable to apply. Furthermore, reduce exposure time during the hottest hours and wear clothing/accessories (sunglasses, hat) whenever possible.
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Conclusion
Selecting an effective sunscreen for melasma and hyperpigmentation is a proactive step toward maintaining skin health.
The highlighted products encompass a diverse array of formulations, each with its unique blend of protective and corrective ingredients.
Remember, skincare can take some time to work. The consistent application, alongside other complementary treatments, can aid in minimizing dark spots and protecting your skin from the detrimental effects of the sun.
Choose wisely, considering your skin’s specific needs and preferences, to embrace radiant and even-toned skin while shielding against environmental aggressors.