The number one factor separating my patients who battle with pigment rebound from those who maintain an even skin tone is whether or not they use a tinted sunscreen.
Visible light, especially high-energy blue light, can worsen hyperpigmentation like melasma and PIH by stimulating melanocytes to produce more melanin. This is particularly true for those with deeper skin tones due to the opsin gene.
Regular sunscreens don’t protect against visible light, but tinted sunscreens, which contain iron oxides, offer essential protection.
Certain antioxidants can lessen pigment production after blue light exposure, but the main goal should be to prevent blue light from reaching your skin. This can be achieved with products specifically designed for blue light protection, similar to how sunscreen protects against UV rays.
My current favorites are:
✨ Naturium Dew-Glow Tinted Moisturizer SPF 50 PA++++ Deep (Organic/Chemical)
✨ The CoTZ Flawless Complexion Richly Tinted SPF 50 - (Inorganic/Mineral)
✨ Elta MD Deep 46/40 Tinted Sunscreen- Hybrid (organic and Inorganic)
For melanin-rich skin, VL protection is essential. The most effective ingredient for blocking blue light is iron oxide, found in tinted sunscreens, skin tints, and makeup. If tinted sunscreen isn’t your preference, or you already have a favorite sunscreen that doesn’t block visible light, you can apply your sunscreen first and then layer a skin tint or foundation on top. This method provides superior protection against UVA, UVB, and visible light to help effectively manage hyperpigmentation.
#hyperpigmentation #melasma #tintedsunscreen
