Melasma – Why UVA Blockers Are Key

Dr. Irwin
April 16, 2009

 

Melasma:  why you need UVA sunblockers.

One key to improving melasma is your sunscreen. When I say this, most of my patients eyes glaze over and I think they only hear …….blah, blah, sunscreen, blah, blah sunscreen. Like what teenagers hear when we talk to them.

But REALLY!  You need to pay attention to this! Because, melasma is activated by UVA mostly.  You can slather on sunscreen but if it doesn’t have a good UVA blocker, it won’t do you much good.

Look for sunscreens with at least 7% or more zinc or titanium dioxide or 3% Mexoryl. And try layering them with a powder sunscreen for even better coverage during sunnier months or trips. UVA is at its peak on June 21, the summer solstice.

Try DermaQuest Skin Therapy Zinclear SPF 30 for 18% zinc oxide  (expensive at $51.50, but a great product; does not white you out).

Try the Anthelios sunscreen with mexoryl, or Fallene CoTZ with 10% titanium and 3% zinc, layered with the Colorescience zinc/titantium powder sunscreen. 

Coming soon!  Q & A with Dr. Irwin and updates to SkinTour!

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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