From the Guidelines
Mineral and tinted sunscreens are the preferred choice for managing melasma due to their ability to provide comprehensive protection against both UV radiation and visible light. When considering the management of melasma, a chronic condition that requires regular follow-ups and an effective home care routine, as noted in the clinical guidelines for autologous platelet concentrates in esthetic medicine 1, the importance of adequate sun protection cannot be overstated. The key benefits of mineral sunscreens, which contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, include their physical blocking mechanism that offers broader spectrum protection against UV rays without causing skin irritation, a common issue with chemical sunscreens that can exacerbate melasma. Additionally, the inclusion of iron oxide pigments in tinted sunscreens specifically targets and blocks visible light, a known trigger for melasma, ensuring that the skin is protected from both UV and visible light spectrum. For optimal results, it is recommended to use a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30-50, containing iron oxide tints that match the individual's skin tone, and applying it generously every morning and reapplying every 2 hours when outdoors. The ideal formula should be water-resistant and contain at least 5% zinc oxide, providing a robust defense against the photosensitive nature of melasma and supporting the efficacy of other treatments such as hydroquinone, tranexamic acid, or retinoids. By prioritizing mineral and tinted sunscreens as part of a comprehensive management plan, individuals with melasma can better prevent pigment darkening and improve the overall effectiveness of their treatment regimen.
From the Research
Mineral and Tinted Suncream for Melasma
- Mineral and tinted suncream is considered better for melasma due to its ability to provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, as well as visible light [ 2 ]
- The use of broad-spectrum sunscreen covering both the visible and ultraviolet-light spectrum enhances the treatment efficacy of hydroquinone, a common treatment for melasma [ 2 ]
- Sunscreen is an essential component of melasma treatment, and its regular use throughout the year can help prevent the recurrence of melasma [ 3 ]
Benefits of Mineral and Tinted Suncream
- Mineral and tinted suncream can provide a physical barrier against the sun's rays, reducing the risk of further hyperpigmentation [ 4 ]
- Tinted suncream can also help to camouflage the appearance of melasma, improving the patient's quality of life [ 4 ]
- The use of zinc oxide, a common ingredient in mineral suncreams, has been shown to be effective in treating melasma [ 5 ]