Top 5 Best Sunscreens for Melasma in 2025

Melasma is a prevalent skin issue that results in dark, discolored spots on the face. Sun exposure often provokes it, making the shielding of the skin from damaging UV rays vital. Although numerous sunscreens assert to provide protection, they’re not all equally effective. In this piece, we’ll focus on identifying the superior sunscreen for combating melasma.

When it comes to choosing a sunscreen for melasma, there are a few critical factors to consider. Firstly, it’s essential to choose a product with a high SPF rating, as this will provide better protection against UV rays. Secondly, it’s crucial to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Finally, it’s essential to choose a sunscreen that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores and exacerbate melasma.

After researching and testing various sunscreens, we have identified the top products that meet these criteria. In this article, we will be discussing each product’s features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the best sunscreen for melasma and be able to choose the right product for your skin.

Best Sunscreen for Melasma

As skincare enthusiasts, we understand the importance of using sunscreen daily. But for those who suffer from melasma, finding the right sunscreen can be a daunting task. Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark, discolored patches on the face, and exposure to sunlight can worsen the condition. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best sunscreens for melasma, so you can protect your skin while keeping it looking its best.

1. ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Sunscreen

We highly recommend the ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Sunscreen for anyone looking for a high-quality sunscreen that is effective against melasma.

Pros

• The tinted formula provides a natural-looking coverage that helps to even out skin tone.
• The 100% mineral-based formula is gentle on sensitive skin and provides excellent sun protection with SPF 50.
• The addition of vitamin E antioxidant, 10.7% zinc oxide, peptide complex, and DNA Repairsomes makes this sunscreen a powerful tool in protecting, repairing, and correcting the skin.

Cons

• The tinted formula may not be suitable for all skin types or skin tones.
• The price point is higher than some other sunscreens on the market.
• The formula may be slightly thick and require extra blending for an even application.

This sunscreen has been a game-changer for us in the fight against melasma. The tinted formula provides a natural-looking coverage that helps to even out skin tone, while the 100% mineral-based formula is gentle on sensitive skin and provides excellent sun protection with SPF 50. The addition of vitamin E antioxidant, 10.7% zinc oxide, peptide complex, and DNA Repairsomes makes this sunscreen a powerful tool in protecting, repairing, and correcting the skin.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tinted formula may not be suitable for all skin types or skin tones. Additionally, the price point is higher than some other sunscreens on the market. However, we believe that the benefits of this sunscreen outweigh the cost. The formula may be slightly thick and require extra blending for an even application, but we found that it was well worth the effort.

Overall, we highly recommend the ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Sunscreen for anyone looking for a high-quality sunscreen that is effective against melasma.

2. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen

If you’re looking for a reliable sunscreen that protects and calms sensitive skin and acne-prone skin, then EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is a great option. We highly recommend this product for its oil-free formula that blends in effortlessly and leaves no white cast.

Pros

• The sunscreen is lightweight and silky, making it easy to wear alone or under makeup.
• It contains Zinc Oxide, which helps protect against breakouts and is an essential acne sunscreen for those with acne-prone skin care concerns.
• The facial sunscreen can easily be worn alone or under makeup and is an ideal face sunscreen for oily skin.

Cons

• Some users may find it a bit expensive.
• It may not be suitable for those who prefer a scented sunscreen.
• It may not be suitable for those with very dry skin.

EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is a great product that offers excellent sun protection. It’s an oil-free sunscreen that’s perfect for those with sensitive skin and acne-prone skin. We love how it blends in effortlessly and leaves no white cast, making it easy to wear alone or under makeup.

The sunscreen contains Zinc Oxide, which helps protect against breakouts, making it an essential acne sunscreen for those with acne-prone skin care concerns. It’s also lightweight and silky, making it easy to wear under makeup. We found that it didn’t cause any breakouts or irritation, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.

The only downside to this product is that it may not be suitable for those who prefer a scented sunscreen. Additionally, it may not be suitable for those with very dry skin. However, we found that it worked well for most skin types.

Overall, we highly recommend EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen for those looking for a reliable sunscreen that protects and calms sensitive skin and acne-prone skin. It’s a great product that offers excellent sun protection and is easy to wear under makeup.

3. EltaMD UV Restore Tinted Face Sunscreen

We highly recommend the EltaMD UV Restore Tinted Face Sunscreen for individuals with melasma due to its broad-spectrum protection and ability to repair sun-damaged skin.

Pros

• Provides broad-spectrum protection from damaging UVA/UVB sun rays
• Repairs sun-damaged skin and minimizes dark spots and fine lines
• Can be worn alone or under makeup and is formulated for all skin types and concerns

Cons

• May not provide enough coverage for those with severe discoloration
• Can be a bit drying for those with dry skin
• May leave a slight white cast on deeper skin tones

This tinted sunscreen has a lightweight feel and blends easily into the skin. It provides a natural-looking tint that helps to even out skin tone while protecting against further damage. It is also fragrance-free, paraben-free, and noncomedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types.

The EltaMD UV Restore Tinted Face Sunscreen is perfect for daily use and can be worn alone or under makeup. It is also recommended by dermatologists to help improve the skin’s suppleness and boost moisture retention.

Overall, if you’re looking for a tinted sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection and helps to repair sun-damaged skin, the EltaMD UV Restore Tinted Face Sunscreen is definitely worth considering.

4. CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Sheer Tint Lotion

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection while also leaving your skin with a healthy glow, then CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Sheer Tint Lotion is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The universal tint is suitable for all skin tones and offsets the white-cast typically associated with mineral sunscreens.
• The lightweight, non-greasy formula provides all-day hydration with three essential ceramides that help restore the skin’s natural barrier and lock in moisture.
• The sunscreen is allergy tested, fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, non-comedogenic, and gentle on the skin.

Cons

• The tint may not match all skin tones perfectly.
• The lotion may not be as water-resistant as some other sunscreens.
• The product doesn’t come with a protective seal.

This sunscreen is formulated with 100% mineral sunscreen filters that create a protective film on the skin’s surface to help reflect UVB and UVA rays. The sunscreen is also formulated with essential ceramides that help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier. Hyaluronic acid is also included in the formula to attract hydration to the skin’s surface and help the skin retain moisture.

The sunscreen is suitable for all skin types, including dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, and acne-prone. It can be worn alone or under makeup as a tinted primer with SPF 30. The product is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, and it doesn’t contain oxybenzone or avobenzone.

Overall, we highly recommend CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Sheer Tint Lotion for anyone looking for a mineral sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection and leaves the skin with a healthy glow.

5. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen – SPF 40-1.7 fl oz

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that provides comprehensive protection and nourishment for your skin, Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• This sunscreen is weightless and scentless, making it suitable for all skin types and lifestyles.
• It provides comprehensive protection against blue light, UVA, UVB, and IRA rays.
• The oil-free formula glides onto the skin, providing shine control and a velvety, makeup-gripping finish.

Cons

• The cost may be a bit high compared to other sunscreens on the market.
• Some users may not like the gel-like texture of the product.
• It needs to be reapplied every 1-2 hours for maximum effectiveness.

We highly recommend Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen for anyone looking for a sunscreen that provides comprehensive protection and nourishment for their skin. The weightless and scentless formula makes it suitable for all skin types and lifestyles. Plus, the unique oil-free formula glides onto the skin, providing shine control and a velvety, makeup-gripping finish.

The comprehensive protection provided by this sunscreen against blue light, UVA, UVB, and IRA rays is definitely a plus. It also includes clean, powerful ingredients like soothing frankincense and hydrating meadowfoam seed that nourish and protect your skin.

While the cost may be a bit high compared to other sunscreens on the market, we believe it’s worth it for a product that delivers such great results. The only potential downside is that it needs to be reapplied every 1-2 hours for maximum effectiveness. However, this is a common requirement for all sunscreens.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality sunscreen that provides comprehensive protection and nourishment for your skin, Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best sunscreen for melasma, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting a product:

Broad Spectrum Protection

Make sure the sunscreen you choose provides broad-spectrum protection, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. This is important because both types of rays can contribute to the development of melasma.

SPF 30 or Higher

Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This will provide adequate protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Remember, the higher the SPF, the more protection you’ll receive.

Physical or Mineral Sunscreen

Physical or mineral sunscreens contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin and reflect the sun’s rays. These types of sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation and are often recommended for those with sensitive skin.

Water-Resistant

If you plan on spending time in the water or sweating, it’s important to choose a water-resistant sunscreen. This will ensure that the product stays on your skin and continues to provide protection.

Non-Comedogenic

For those with melasma-prone skin, it’s important to choose a non-comedogenic sunscreen. This means the product won’t clog pores or cause breakouts, which can exacerbate melasma.

By considering these factors, you can choose a sunscreen that will help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays and prevent the development or worsening of melasma.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of mineral sunscreen for managing melasma?

Mineral sunscreens are a great option for those with melasma because they contain physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that create a barrier on the skin, reflecting UV rays away from the skin. Mineral sunscreen is often less irritating to the skin and less likely to cause breakouts, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin.

How does La Roche-Posay sunscreen specifically address melasma concerns?

La Roche-Posay sunscreen contains Mexoryl SX and XL, which provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Mexoryl SX and XL are photostable, meaning they do not break down when exposed to sunlight, making them highly effective at protecting the skin. La Roche-Posay sunscreen is also non-comedogenic, making it a great option for those with acne-prone skin.

What makes powder sunscreen a good choice for those with melasma?

Powder sunscreen is an excellent option for those with melasma because it can be easily reapplied throughout the day without disturbing makeup or irritating the skin. Powder sunscreen also helps to absorb excess oil, making it a great option for those with oily skin.

Which sunscreens are recommended for hyperpigmentation on Black skin?

Sunscreens that contain ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, and arbutin are recommended for hyperpigmentation on Black skin. These ingredients work to brighten the skin and even out skin tone. It’s important to choose a sunscreen that is specifically formulated for darker skin tones to avoid a white cast.

Can the use of sunscreen contribute to the lightening of hyperpigmentation?

Yes, the use of sunscreen can contribute to the lightening of hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen helps to protect the skin from further damage, allowing the skin to heal and fade hyperpigmentation over time.

Are there sunscreens that contain iron oxide recommended for melasma patients?

Yes, sunscreens that contain iron oxide are recommended for melasma patients. Iron oxide helps to block visible light, which can trigger melasma. Sunscreens that contain iron oxide are often tinted, making them a great option for those with darker skin tones.

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