Melasma, a common skin condition characterized by dark, discoloured patches, can be particularly challenging to manage during the summer months. Increased sun exposure and heat can exacerbate melasma, making it essential to adopt a diligent skincare routine. In this blog, we'll explore effective strategies for taking care of your skin with melasma in the summer, including the use of hats, doubling up on sunscreen, and incorporating skin-brightening treatments.
Understanding Melasma
Melasma is often triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes, and genetic factors. It appears as brown or gray-brown patches, usually on the face, and can become more pronounced in the summer. Managing melasma requires a multifaceted approach to protect the skin and prevent further pigmentation.
Summer Skincare Tips for Managing Melasma
1. Wear Protective Clothing and Hats
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your skin from the sun is to wear protective clothing. Wide-brimmed hats provide excellent coverage for your face, neck, and shoulders, reducing direct sun exposure. Additionally, wearing sunglasses can protect the delicate skin around your eyes.
2. Double Up on Sunscreen: Chemical and Physical
Using sunscreen is non-negotiable when you have melasma. To ensure maximum protection, it's advisable to double up on sunscreen by using both chemical and physical sunscreens.
Chemical Sunscreen: These sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, which is then released from the skin.
Ex. ZO Skin Health's Daily sheer or Smart tone (both SPF 50)
Physical Sunscreen: Also known as mineral sunscreens, these products contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays.
For optimal protection, apply a layer of chemical sunscreen first, followed by a layer of physical sunscreen. This combination offers a broad-spectrum shield against UVA and UVB rays.
3. Reapply Sunscreen Every Two Hours
No matter how effective your sunscreen is, it needs to be reapplied every two hours, especially if you're outdoors. Sweating, swimming, and even the natural breakdown of sunscreen ingredients reduce its effectiveness over time. Carry a travel-sized sunscreen with you to ensure you can reapply as needed.
4. Use a Retinol Skin Brightener
Retinol is a powerhouse ingredient that can help lighten melasma by promoting cell turnover and fading dark spots. During the summer, you can still use a retinol skin brightener, but it's crucial to apply it in the evening to avoid sun sensitivity. Always remember to start with a lower percentage and increase over time for best results. ZO Skin Health's retinol skin brighteners start at .25% and go up to 1%.
5. Be Mindful of Sun Exposure
Even with the best sunscreen and protective measures, limiting your time in direct sunlight is essential. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Remember that UV rays can penetrate through clouds, so protective measures are necessary even on overcast days.
Preparing for Fall and Winter: A More Aggressive Approach
While summer requires a gentle approach to manage melasma, the fall and winter months are ideal for more aggressive treatments. Cooler weather and reduced sun exposure allow for the use of stronger skincare treatments that can effectively combat melasma.
Consider Professional Treatments
Chemical Peels: These treatments use acids to exfoliate the skin, promoting the shedding of pigmented cells.
Skinpen Microneedling: This procedure stimulates collagen production and can improve the appearance of melasma over time.
Continue Using Brightening Agents
In addition to professional treatments, continue using brightening agents, such as retinol based products and if you are wanting a quicker result- the gold standard of lightening is the ZO Skin Health's Hydroquinone kit. These ingredients can help maintain the progress made during professional treatments and prevent the recurrence of melasma. Hydroquinone also requires a professional guidance from your Prestige Laser studio medical esthetician as there is a specific protocol in place for best results.
Managing melasma during the summer months requires a proactive and consistent approach. By wearing protective clothing, doubling up on sunscreen, reapplying it every two hours, using a retinol skin brightener, and being mindful of sun exposure, you can effectively control melasma. As the seasons change, take advantage of the fall and winter months to incorporate more aggressive treatments for long-term improvement. Remember, the key to managing melasma is diligence and consistency in your skincare routine.
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