If you’re constantly battling melasma, you’re not alone. In fact, pigmentation disorders are one of the most common conditions we treat at our South Tampa med spa. And while we offer numerous restorative services to remove or reduce melasma, it’s always best to be proactive than reactive. One word…sunscreen. Here we touch on the importance of sunscreen and the role it plays in melasma intervention.
What is melasma?
Melasma is a condition that causes the skin to create patches of dark pigment that most commonly affects women, especially those of medium skin tones including Hispanic, Asian, or Mediterranean heritage. While it is a life-long condition, it can worsen when triggered by other factors such as heat, hormonal changes (i.e., puberty, pregnancy, menopause), and of course, sun exposure.
The Importance of Sunscreen
The best way to avoid triggering melasma is to stay out of the sun. But let’s be real. You live in Florida, so that’s not always going to be possible. And since you will not be locked up in a house all day, the next best thing is to apply sunscreen, all day, every day. But not just any sunscreen, the right kind of sunscreen.
The Right Kind of Sunscreen
If you have melasma, the best sunscreen is one formulated with physical (a.k.a. mineral) sunscreen active ingredients (Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide) and not chemical sunscreen ingredients (Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Oxybenzone, and Octinoxate).
Here’s why. Chemical sunscreens work by stopping the effects of the sun’s rays by converting the sun’s UV energy into heat energy. But remember, heat triggers melasma so this will only make it worse! Physical sunscreens actually block the sun’s UV rays from penetrating your skin. Heat is not triggered by this process, and therefore, your skin is not exposed to additional heat, and it is protected from the sun.
Melasma Treatment and Prevention
As mentioned above, we can treat existing melasma with several restorative services such as chemical peels and laser treatments. However, a proper skincare regimen (that includes sunscreen!) is key to improving the appearance of melasma. At Skin NV, our go-to sunscreens for melasma intervention are these two award-winning products by ISDIN:
ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Tinted SPF 50: An ultralight tinted mineral sunscreen formulated with zinc oxide that protects, repairs, and corrects sun damage and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+ (Untinted): A daily mineral sunscreen that is fast-absorbing, ultralight that is clinically proven to repair existing sun damage and protect against melasma.
Skin NV – South Tampa’s #1 Med Spa
At Skin NV, we specialize in non-surgical and skin rejuvenation treatments. To learn more about our products and services or to book an appointment at our South Tampa med spa, please call (813) 839-4141.