Melasma and Sun Protection with Dr. Lisa Akintilo
We invited Dr. Lisa Akintilo, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, to chat about melasma and the importance of UPF 50+ sun protection to reduce flare-ups and prevent further progression.
What is melasma and who does it most commonly affect?
Melasma is a common skin condition that shows up as brown patches, usually on the face and sometimes on the arms too. It’s more likely to affect people with medium to dark skin tones, with hormones also playing a big role in triggering flare-ups.
Women are more likely to develop melasma than men, especially during pregnancy or when using birth control medication or hormone replacement therapy. While melasma isn’t dangerous, it can affect how you feel about your skin and your overall confidence. That’s why managing risk factors is so important.
Treating melasma can be challenging, and it often helps to work with a board-certified dermatologist. In my experience, a consistent skincare routine along with strict UPF 50+ sun protection can really make a difference over time.
Why is sun protection so important for melasma?
Sun exposure is one of the biggest triggers for melasma flare ups. UV exposure activates the pigment-producing cells in your skin, which can make dark patches even darker and harder to treat. It doesn’t take much, just a short walk outside or driving with the sun on your face can be enough.
I always recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 50. Tinted sunscreens with ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are great because they also protect against visible light, which can impact melasma too.
Besides sunscreen, wearing wide-brimmed sun hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses can help block UV rays. Look for clothing and sun hats with a UPF rating of 50+, which means they block about 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
Sun protection matters every single day, even if it’s cloudy or you’re mostly indoors. Indoor lighting and screens can also play a role. If you’re outside, reapply sunscreen every two hours and try to stay in the shade between 10AM and 4PM.
When should you see a dermatologist for melasma?
If your melasma is getting worse, not improving, or really affecting your confidence and quality of life, it’s a good idea to see a board-certified dermatologist. We can help create a personalized treatment plan that fits your skin type, lifestyle, and goals.
