UVA and UVB radiations, photoaging, and high energy visible light also called blue light are the troublemakers behind hyperpigmentation. That said, if you have sun spots, melasma, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, applying sunscreen to your face daily is a must. However, not all sunscreens are created equal. Using the wrong ones can worsen skin discoloration. Therefore, you need to be particular about the type of sunscreen you choose. Before all else, you want a mineral-based/physical sunscreen. The chemical-based sunscreens do not block or reflect any visible light and have more risk of irritation.
Irritation to the skin leads to inflammation which causes hyperpigmentation. That’s what you want to prevent. Also, the active ingredient in your mineral sunscreen should be zinc oxide. Or, it should have a higher percentage of zinc oxide than titanium dioxide. Still, not all mineral sun sunscreens work the same. With so many of them on the market, here are three recommendations to help take some of the guesswork out.
Biossance Sheer Mineral (SPF 30)
Deeply hydrating, this one is lightweight and feels good on the skin. So, you do not need a moisturizer. It has an impressive ingredient list. Zinc oxide 14%, squalane, and water lily. Together they deliver active ingredients deep into the skin to prevent over-drying. What I like is it does not clog your pores and it blends easily too. Make-up applies beautifully on top of it. It works really well if you have a dark skin tone.
Super Goop Mineral Matte Screen (SPF 40)
This is a popular new brand that’s safe for sensitive skin because it has mineral ingredients and it’s unscented. Formulated with titanium dioxide 0.7% and zinc oxide 17%, this sunscreen blends well without leaving you looking like a ghost. It’s virtually invisible and it hides your pores and fine lines. It wears well as a primer under make-up as it is very lightweight, tinted, and feels great. It takes a little while to rub in, but it’s worth it.
Uriage Bariesun mineral (SPF 50+)
Perfect for the beach too, this water-resistant European sunscreen is suitable if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. It won’t burn around the eyes and, unlike many mineral-based sunscreens, it’s pretty moisturizing. Since it’s formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, you see a bit of a cast with this product. It’s mild to moderate though. Try applying it in thin layers to mitigate this issue. This brand also has an anti-brown spot SPF cream that not only prevents but helps to correct hyperpigmentation.