12 Best Sunscreens for Melasma That Provide Ultimate Protection

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 22, 2024
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As the weather warms up and we spend more time outdoors, it's essential to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. While sunscreen is a must for everyone, finding the best sunscreen for melasma is pivotal for those facing this issue. Melasma increases the photosensitivity of your skin, meaning it becomes more vulnerable to the negative effects of sun exposure than other skin types (1). Adding to that, it requires protection from visible light along with broad-spectrum UV rays to prevent exacerbating the skin pigmentation (2).

Our contributor Dr. Chaudhry, an UK board-certified Dermatologist, shares the benefits of using sunscreen saying, “While sunscreen can't cure melasma, it can certainly help prevent its worsening or recurrence. Regular use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF can minimize the UV-induced pigmentation that exacerbates melasma.”

Melasma is intensely driven by UV radiation, so the more we can do to block their harmful effects on the skin, the better our skin is going to look and the better our anti-pigmentation regime is going to stick with us”, says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sam Ellis. This is extremely important as many people with melasma and hyperpigmentation deal with self-consciousness due to them, and require something that makes them comfortable in their own skin. Furthermore, specialized sunscreens formulated with milder ingredients that are marked as hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin, further reduce the risk of irritation and adverse reactions. Our contributor Dr. Chaudhry says, “There are sunscreens specifically formulated for individuals with melasma. These sunscreens often contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide broad-spectrum protection and help prevent the worsening of melasma triggered by sun exposure.” Besides, they act as a shield to protect your skin from other environmental factors as well.

In this article, we explore the world of sunscreens for such skin conditions, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed buying decision. Let’s hop right in!

12 Best Sunscreens for Melasma

Approved by Heart of Stone actress Alia Bhatt, ISDIN sunscreens are perfect for all skin types. Whether you’re struggling with acne, dry patches, or excess oil production, this sunscreen is infused with zinc oxide which shields the skin from harmful sun rays, and Vitamin E antioxidants that nourish and hydrate the skin. This sunscreen doesn’t leave a white cast which makes it the perfect addition to your AM makeup routine. This sunscreen easily blends into your skin without leaving any residue or making your face look sticky. 

Pros
  • Perfect for daily wear
  • Value for money
  • Treats sunburn
  • Reduces sun spots
Cons
  • None

Quick Tip

Apply ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+ generously 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours for continuous protection.

  • Best for Dry Skin

    Colorescience Total Protection

    Colorescience Total Protection
  • Pamper your skin with the ultimate sunscreen that reverses melasma and prevents the formation of any pigmentation. Colorscience's protection shield formula penetrates deep into your skin cells to shield your epidermis from any damage caused by UVA/UVB rays. The beauty of this sunscreen is that it soothes existing melasma, and protects your skin from pollution, Blue Light, and Infrared radiation. Other benefits of this amazing sunscreen are due to its non-comedogenic formula that is oil-free, gluten-free, and fragrance-free.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Sulfate-free
    • Suitable for all skin types
    • Offers complete coverage
    • None
  • Best Overall

    eltaMD Skincare UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 Facial Sunscreen

    eltaMD Skincare UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 Facial Sunscreen
  • Among the best sunscreens for melasma and hyperpigmentation, this product by eltaMD is a holy grail in your skincare regime. It provides supreme defense against harmful UVA and UVB rays, while also helping to prevent breakouts and combat signs of aging. What makes it a fantastic sunscreen for melasma is that it calms skin irritation by employing the goodness of niacinamide (3). The broad-spectrum protection ensures that your skin stays protected all day long, while the sheer tinted formula provides a natural-looking finish that blends seamlessly into your skin.

    Pros
    • Skin Cancer Foundation recommended
    • Anti-inflammatory
    • Suits all skin types
    • Intensely hydrating
    • Oil-free formula
    • Great for daily use
    • Layers well with other products
    Cons
    • Costly
    • Not water-resistant

    Quick Tip

    Before application, cleanse your face properly and apply a toner and moisturizer. Take a pea-size amount of the cream and massage it all over your face in an upward direction.

  • Best for Antioxidant Protection

    SUN BUM Face 50 Premium Sunscreen Face Lotion

    SUN BUM Face 50 Premium Sunscreen Face Lotion
  • Free from chemical sun filters such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, this sunscreen is ideal for melasma caused during pregnancy. It has an ultra-lightweight and non-greasy formula, which makes it perfect for daily use. The Sun Bum Face 50 Sunscreen Lotion is enriched with the antioxidant goodness of vitamin E that helps prevent premature aging. Plus, it is hypoallergenic and dreamily gentle for sensitive skin types, so you can rest assured that it won’t exacerbate your skin condition! Besides, whether you're spending a day at the beach or just running errands, this product is a must-have for all your outdoor adventures!

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Leaves no white cast
    • Replenishes skin barrier
    • Water-resistant
    • Suits all skin types
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Gentle formula
    Cons
    • Not reef friendly
    • Does not absorb easily
  • Best to Protect Skin from UV Damage

    Neutrogena Clear Face oil-free sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50

    Neutrogena Clear Face oil-free sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
  • This powerful sunscreen by Neutrogena consists of broad-spectrum SPF 50 that shields your skin from UVA and UVB rays, preventing skin damage and premature aging. This face sunscreen caters well to skin types that are acne-prone as it is lightweight and oil-free. Thereby, it is perfect for daily use as it stays put under other skincare/makeup products. Moreover, it is easy to apply and suitable for all skin types.

    Pros
    • Weightless texture
    • Matte finish
    • Oxybenzone-free
    • Fragrance-free
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Water-resistant
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Leaves white cast
    • Too thick
  • Best Non-comedogenic Formula

    DIFFERIN Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

    DIFFERIN Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
  • This sunscreen by Differin is designed to provide your skin with the ultimate protection against harmful UV rays while also keeping it moisturized and shine-free all day long. Made with a breakthrough oil-absorbing technology, this moisturizing product instantly absorbs excess oil from your skin, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed. Plus, the SPF 30 formula effectively shields hyperpigmented and discolored skin from the damaging effects of the sun. This sunscreen for melasma works wonders in preventing premature aging and sunburn.

    Pros
    • Dermatologist-approved
    • Micropearl technology
    • Non-greasy formula
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Oil-free
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Pricey
  • Best for Daily Use

    A'pieu PURE BLOCK Daily Sun Cream SPF 45 PA+++

    A'pieu PURE BLOCK Daily Sun Cream SPF 45 PA+++
  • This hydrating sunscreen by A’pieu is specially formulated to offer you broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. With the powerful SPF45/PA+++ formula of this product, you can be sure that your skin remains safe and protected all day long on applying it. Moreover, it is infused with natural ingredients such as aloe vera and green tea extract, which soothe and nourish hyperpigmented skin while providing it intense moisturizing (4) (5).

    Pros
    • Non-greasy
    • Doesn’t clog pores
    • Great absorption
    • Lightweight
    • Reef-safe
    • Great for all-day use
    Cons
    • Leaves a white cast
    • Strong scent
  • Best for Oily Skin

    Hero FORCE SHIELD Superlight Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

    Hero FORCE SHIELD Superlight Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
  • Formulated with advanced technology, this sunscreen for melasma by Hero Force provides powerful and long-lasting protection against harmful UV rays. Its lightweight and non-greasy formula absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any residue or white cast — perfect for frequent use. It is infused with antioxidants that help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, while also providing hydration and nourishment. Whether you are spending the day outdoors or running errands in the city, this marvelous product has got you covered!

    Pros
    • Dermatologist-approved
    • Vegan
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Non-irritating
    • Reef-safe
    • Paraben-free
    Cons
    • Not water-resistant
    • Overpowering scent
  • Most Hydrating Ingredients

    BIOSSANCE Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

    BIOSSANCE Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
  • Among the best mineral-based sunscreens for melasma, this product by Biossance with SPF 30 PA+++ provides high-level protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. The unique formulation of this sunscreen contains squalane — a plant-derived humectant that boosts hydration and nourishes the skin, leaving it soft and supple. The zinc oxide infused in it helps to reflect the impact of the sun's harmful rays outwards so that it doesn’t touch your skin. The lightweight and sheer texture of this sunscreen makes it perfect to use underneath makeup and other products, allowing for easy application and minimal residue.

    Pros
    • Climate-pledge friendly
    • Cruelty-free
    • Boosts hydration
    • Blendable on all skin tones
    • Fragrance-free
    • Reef safe
    • Travel-friendly
    Cons
    • Very runny
    • Expensive
  • Best for Sensitive Skin

    Julep BEAUTY No Excuses Broad Spectrum Invisible Sunscreen SPF 40

    Julep BEAUTY No Excuses Broad Spectrum Invisible Sunscreen SPF 40
  • Infused with antioxidants, this sunscreen by Julep Beauty helps defend against environmental stressors and free radicals that can damage your skin. With ingredients such as aloe leaf extract and sunflower seed oil, the product soothes, hydrates, and repairs your skin barrier. Its clear formula provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 40 and leaves your skin looking fresh, smooth, and radiant. All in all, you can rest assured that this product will not only protect but also restore the natural glow of your skin.

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Non-greasy
    • Absorbs like a dream
    • No scent
    • Nourishing properties
    • Suitable for sensitive skin
    • Great for daily use
    Cons
    • Costly
    • Small size
  • MyCHELLE DERMACEUTICALS PROTECT Sun Shield Unscented SPF 28

    MyCHELLE DERMACEUTICALS PROTECT Sun Shield Unscented SPF 28
  • This reef-safe sunscreen for melasma by MyChelle Dermaceuticals provides a fantastic defense against harmful UV rays. Its antioxidant properties from vitamin E add an extra layer of protection by fighting free radicals and other external aggressors. And by leveraging the benefits of aloe extracts, this product soothes and pampers your skin, while also boosting hydration. Its unscented formula makes it perfect for those with sensitive skin, ensuring that you can enjoy your time in the sun without any irritation.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Paraben-free
    • No sulfate or phthalate
    • No artificial fragrance or color
    • Great for daily use
    • Travel-friendly
    Cons
    • Pricey
    • Poor packaging
  • Best Water-Resistant

    sonrei SEA Clearly Translucent Gel Sunscreem Broad Spectrum SPF 50

    sonrei SEA Clearly Translucent Gel Sunscreem Broad Spectrum SPF 50
  • Experience the ultimate in sun protection and skin comfort with Sonrei Sea Clearly sunscreen. The gel formula is infused with antioxidant-rich green tea extract and vitamin E to help protect and nourish your skin, while also calming inflammation due to hyperpigmentation and discoloration. This sunscreen is designed to provide all-day protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays, while dreamily absorbing into your skin, making it feel hydrated and comfortable.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • No gluten
    • Paraben-free
    • Non-GMO
    • Water resistant
    Cons
    • Not suitable for oily skin types
    • Leaves an orange tint

    Now that you’ve seen our product recommendations for the best sunscreen for melasma, let us see the following buying guide and steps to use to shop wisely and make the best of the product.

    How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Melasma?

    Here are some factors to help you choose the best sunscreen for melasma:

    Pro Tip

    Opt for SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide/titanium dioxide. Reapply every 2 hours and wear protective accessories for flawless, sun-safe skin.

    Ingredients: Ingredients, such as strong fragrances, denatured alcohol, and preservatives in sunscreen can irritate or aggravate the discolored patches on your skin. Also, it is important to look for sunscreens that are free of chemical exfoliants, petroleum, mineral oil, etc. as such products are specifically formulated to minimize clogging of pores and reduce the likelihood of breakouts.

    Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the best sunscreen ingredients for melasma as they are gentle and less likely to trigger acne or skin inflammations caused by hormonal changes. While chemical sun filters, such as avobenzone and octinoxate also play an essential role in shielding your skin, it is best to avoid using them during pregnancy and postpartum to ensure the safety of the baby (6). Adding to that, it's vital to have blue-light protection to not aggravate your melasma symptoms further.

    Lightweight Formula: Sensitized skin calls for a lightweight sunscreen formula that won't feel heavy or greasy. Avoid products that contain heavy oils, waxes, or ultra-rich emollients that can clog pores and cause breakouts. Instead, opt for lightweight formulas that absorb seamlessly and won't leave a white cast on the skin.

    Physical Blockers: These sunscreens, resembling a white paint-like substance, work to physically block the sun’s rays from damaging your skin. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are the main active ingredients in physical blockers. 

    Chemical Blockers: These sunscreens contain nanoparticles that absorb harmful UV rays and release the energy as heat. These typically include aminobenzoic acid, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, and oxybenzone.

    Patch test: Before applying sunscreen to your entire face, do a patch test on a small area of your skin. This will help you determine if the product causes any irritation or breakouts. If you notice any redness or irritation, discontinue use immediately.

    By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be able to find the perfect sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays without causing acne breakouts.

    It is essential to remember that protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is crucial to maintaining healthy skin. By choosing the best sunscreen for melasma that is preferably mineral-based, hypoallergenic, and formulated for broad-spectrum UV and VL protection can keep you away from the sun's damaging effects without aggravating your skin condition. Always remember to consult with your dermatologist before trying out new skincare products to ensure that it is the right fit for your skin type. Besides, our editor strongly recommends the eltaMD SKINCARE UV Clear BROAD-SPECTRUM SPF 46 FACIAL SUNSCREEN for people dealing with melasma. It is anti-inflammatory, oil-free, and suitable for all skin types. We hope you go through our buying guide thoroughly to make the best choice for your skin. Happy shopping!

    Contributor: Dr. Chaudhry, UK board-certified Dermatologist, Scandinavian Biolabs

    FAQ's

    What’s the best sunscreen for melasma?
    Eltamd Skincare UV Clear Broad-Spectrum Spf 46 Facial Sunscreen and Sun Bum Face 50 Premium Sunscreen Face Lotion are some of the best sunscreens for melasma.
    How beneficial is sunscreen for melasma?
    Sunscreens are not only great but also more essential for melasma-affected skin than any other skin type. This is because melasma and hyperpigmentation makes your skin more vulnerable to the negative impact of UV and VL, which calls for extra skin protection.
    Which type of sunscreen is best to get rid of hyperpigmentation?
    Tinted sunscreens have been demonstrated to lessen hyperpigmentation, both on the skin's surface and under a microscope. Along with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, iron oxide appears to be a particularly useful ingredient for that.
    Is sunscreen bad for your melasma?
    Certain formulas made with harsh chemical sun filters such as oxybenzone, and other ingredients such as denatured alcohol, strong fragrances, astringents, and abrasive exfoliants can worsen the melasma or trigger an allergic reaction.
    Can sunscreen cure melasma permanently?
    A great deal of melasma cases tend to fade away with time, especially if you use a good sunscreen to prevent UV and VL damage. But there isn't a guaranteed cure for melasma that will make it go away on its own.
    Is zinc oxide sunscreen good for melasma?
    Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the best sunscreen ingredients for melasma as they reflect UV rays rather than absorbing them like chemical counterparts do.
    Which type of sunscreen is best for melasma?
    Zinc oxide sunscreens are best for melasma.
    Can sunscreen reduce melasma and hyperpigmentation?
    Yes. Since sun’s rays are a trigger for melasma and hyperpigmentation, wearing sunscreen can help prevent the conditions from flaring up and getting worse.
    Can I use sunscreen with other treatments for melasma?
    Yes, dermatologists recommend using UV + VL broad-spectrum sunscreens with other treatments for melasma.
    What is the best sunscreen for different skin types?
    The eltaMD SKINCARE UV Clear BROAD-SPECTRUM SPF 46 FACIAL SUNSCREEN is best for different skin types and tones, even darker skin tones.
    What are some common ingredients found in sunscreen?
    Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are the primary ingredients found in sunscreens. Besides, chemical sunscreens have carbon-containing molecules that absorb light, including oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone.
    Can sunscreen cause hyperpigmentation and melasma?
    No. On the contrary, sunscreens reduce hyperpigmentation and melasma by preventing harmful UV rays from affecting our skin and damaging it.
    Can I use sunscreen during pregnancy?
    Yes, you can use sunscreen during pregnancy after consulting with your dermatologist.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Melasma is a skin condition that causes brown patches on the face. According to Anoushka, using sunscreen is pivotal for people dealing with melasma to shield the skin from UV damage. She has thoroughly checked the efficacy of these products and found A'pieu Pure Block Daily Sun Cream SPF 45 PA+++ to be one of the best suitable choices for everyday use. It is packed with aloe vera and green tea extract that calms the skin, and its lightweight formula feels soft and smooth on the skin. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    1. The Role of Sunscreen in Melasma and Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation

    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6986132/ 

    2. Near-visible light and UV photoprotection in the treatment of melasma: a double-blind randomized trial

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24313385/ 

    3. The potential of a niacinamide dominated cosmeceutical formulation on fibroblast activity and wound healing in vitro

    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7950568/ 

    4. Dermocosmetics for dry skin: a new role for botanical extracts

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21709432/ 

    5. Efficacy and Safety of Oral Green Tea Preparations in Skin Ailments: A Systematic Review of Clinical Studies

    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9370301/ 

    6. Assessing public interest in sunscreen safety during pregnancy and lactation

    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9119635/

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More