Dermatologist-Recommended Sunscreens for Melasma and Hyperpigmentation in 2024
If you haven't been informed yet, daily application of sunscreen is an indispensable and non-negotiable step in anyone's skincare routine. Especially for those dealing with melasma and hyperpigmentation, sun protection is of utmost significance. "‘Hyperpigmentation’ is a broad term encompassing any darkening of the skin, with melasma being one form," explains New York City board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kenneth Howe. "The underlying cause of melasma remains unknown – although hormones do have a role – but we are certain that sun exposure is the primary factor that worsens the condition," he remarks. Sun-induced freckles or sunspots are yet another type of hyperpigmentation and, as the name implies, are also the consequence of chronic sun exposure.
TL; DR: Whether you're grappling with a few stubborn marks or an overall uneven complexion, the sun is highly likely to be the culprit.
So, does sunscreen assist with hyperpigmentation? It won't eliminate it, but it will prevent it from deteriorating – and often, from even emerging in the first place. Thus, the significance of using sunscreen throughout the year cannot be overstated. "Melasma is extremely challenging to treat, often demanding numerous time-consuming and costly treatments. Sun protection is the sole means to prevent its aggravation and recurrence once it's under control," states Dr. Howe. Non-melasma types of hyperpigmentation might be somewhat more manageable with measures such as lasers and peels, but again, without regular application of sunscreen, you're constantly at risk of the discoloration returning. The point is, using sunscreen to prevent dark spots is of paramount importance.
So what constitutes the ideal sunscreen for melasma? In brief, choose physical formulations over chemical ones. It's not that chemical sunscreen is detrimental for melasma; it simply lacks certain ingredients that are optimal for the condition. "Melasma is caused not only by ultraviolet light but also by infrared radiation and visible light," explains Dr. Howe. The active ingredients in mineral sunscreens – zinc oxide and titanium dioxide – rest on the surface of the skin and deflect all three. On the contrary, the active ingredients in their chemical counterparts are only capable of absorbing and neutralizing ultraviolet light and have no impact on the infrared radiation or visible light, he adds. Having said that, the best sunscreen for melasma (and for hyperpigmentation) is the one that you like and are actually willing to use – be it physical or chemical – and any sunscreen is preferable to none. Nevertheless, if your aim is to clear up melasma and/or fade other kinds of hyperpigmentation, consider trying any one of these nine sunscreens.
Related: Proven Hyperpigmentation Solutions for Every Skin Tone, According to Dermatologists
Derm-Recommended Sunscreens for Melasma and Hyperpigmentation
EltaMD UV Elements Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 44 ($36)
Dr. Howe endorses this formula due to its effective combination of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Free of oil and fragrance, it's a favorable option not only for those dealing with hyperpigmentation but also for anyone with acne. It's also a sunscreen recommended by dermatologists for sensitive skin. Hyaluronic acid ensures it provides excellent moisturization. TL;DR: It's suitable for all skin types.
Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen ($22)
Another effective mineral alternative, this relies solely on zinc oxide yet is nothing like the thick, sticky white cream you might have tried before. Instead, it's lightweight and smooth, with a beautiful, skin-like finish that's neither overly dewy nor overly matte. It does contain some pigment, though it's not necessarily tinted; the added color merely serves to ensure there's no chalky residue left.
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 ($65)
West Islip, New York, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kavita Mariwalla recommends this powder sunscreen for several reasons. Firstly, it contains iron oxides: "Data indicates that this ingredient is particularly effective in preventing the worsening of melasma," she says. There's also the connection with iron oxide and visible light; iron oxides are efficient at absorbing visible light, aiding in preventing further skin damage. Secondly, it makes reapplication throughout the day – which is even more crucial if you have melasma or hyperpigmentation, she claims – easier than ever. It comes in four shades and can even be applied on top of makeup.
Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 60 ($11)
Another of Dr. Howe's choices, this is one of the best drugstore zinc-oxide sunscreens for several reasons. It offers broad-spectrum mineral protection, has an affordable price, and a fragrance-free formula, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive skin. It works equally well on the face and body. Keep it handy for beach or pool days as it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Related: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Treating Melasma
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen for Face SPF 50 ($34)
Dr. Mariwalla loves using this titanium dioxide-based formula every morning and recommends it for anyone dealing with melasma or hyperpigmentation. Those with oily skin will appreciate the matte finish, and although it comes in only one shade, it blends well on various skin tones. Bonus points for the addition of antioxidants, which act as a secondary defense against both the sun and pollution.
Ava Isa Sun-e-Serum Drops SPF 35 ($50)
If you dislike sunscreen, this one is for you. True to its name, the silky, lightweight feel is more similar to a serum than a thick sunscreen – you'd never guess it contains a 25% concentration of zinc oxide. There's also micah in the mixture, a potent antioxidant that has been shown to protect the skin from the blue light emitted by your electronics, which can also exacerbate melasma, according to Dr. Mariwalla.
Tower28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation ($30)
Tinted sunscreens are a comprehensive solution for hyperpigmented skin, protecting your complexion from further darkening while simultaneously providing some coverage to make it appear more even instantly. The only drawback? Historically, most come in only one shade that might work for most light to medium complexions but excludes dark skin. That's why we appreciate this more inclusive option, which relies on zinc oxide for protection and comes in an extensive range of 14 shades. Approximately half of those are designed for dark complexions, making this an excellent SPF for black skin. It's also an incredibly gentle formula, holding the National Eczema Association's Seal of Approval, making it one of the best sunscreens for rosacea as well.
Avene Mineral High Protection Tinted Compact SPF 50 ($36)
Dr. Mariwalla states that this is another excellent choice for daily use, an entirely mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, providing broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. Fans of compact foundations will appreciate the easy-to-apply cream-to-powder formulation, which is not at all greasy. Apply it over moisturizer in the morning or use it to reapply sun protection throughout the day.
Alastin SilkShield All Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 ($55)
Any sunscreen is a good anti-aging product in its own right, but this formula takes it a step further. It's an especially outstanding sunscreen for melasma, given that it contains zinc oxide to shield the skin from UVA and UVB rays, along with antioxidants that protect against blue light and infrared rays. And in terms of the anti-aging aspect, it also boasts the brand's proprietary TriHex technology, which helps remove damaged collagen and elastin and promotes the production of healthy, new versions of the proteins.
