Which sunscreen is best for melasma?
For melasma, Dr. Yousef does not stop at "use sunscreen". The AAD recommends a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30 or higher, applied about 15 minutes before going out and reapplied at least every two hours during exposure, or sooner after swimming or sweating. Because visible light can worsen melasma, especially in darker skin, the AAD recommends a tinted sunscreen containing iron oxides to cover that part of the light too.
Key numbers
- ≥ 30 — SPF
- 15 minutes — Before going out
- Every 2 hours — Reapply
- Tinted, with iron oxides — For melasma and visible light
Does it have to be 100% mineral?
The strongest evidence for melasma focuses on broad protection, consistent use and visible light. Iron oxides in a tinted sunscreen are the key to extra visible-light protection; the word "mineral" alone does not guarantee this if the product is untinted and lacks suitable pigments.
Why is sunscreen part of the treatment itself?
Sun and visible light trigger melasma. If the daily trigger continues, lightening creams and procedures can do less, or the color can return after early improvement. So protection is not a cosmetic extra to the plan; it is part of controlling the trigger.
Key takeaways
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is the minimum the AAD mentions, and the SPF number is not the whole story.
- Apply about 15 minutes before going out and reapply every two hours during exposure.
- In melasma, choose a tinted sunscreen with iron oxides when you want extra visible-light protection.
- Do not make the word "mineral" your only selection criterion.
Sunscreen: How to Choose It, How Much to Use and When to Reapply