Benefits
Works with
When to use
Caution with
What is the melasma sunscreen summary?
- 3 key factors that contribute to melasma include genes, hormone & sun exposure
- Of these 3, we can only control sun exposure
- Learning how to properly use sunscreen is the key to melasma management
- 2 types of sunscreens are recommended, daily & activity
- 2 finger length of SPF provides coverage for the face & neck
- 2 applications are required, namely 2 times a day
- Tinted sunscreens offer better protection against blue & visible light
Why is sunscreen & sun protection vital in melasma management?
Melasma & most forms of pigmentation are stimulated by UV radiation & visible light. All other melasma factors (genes & hormones) can not be controlled by yourself, only solar radiation is within your control.
This is why correct application of sunscreen is pivotal in the management of melasma. If you do not understand how to properly apply sunscreen, the chances of pigment removal is very slim.
What type/s of sunscreens are best for melasma?
A high factor SPF 50+ tinted sunscreen is recommended. You need tinting because it stops HEV or blue light from entering the skin. Blue light makes melasma & post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation worse.
If you want some recommendations-
- Elta MD
- La Roche Posay 50+ Tinted
- Melan130 (expensive)
- UltraViolette sunscreens (expensive)
- Ilia range of sun blocks, tinted.
Sunscreen sticks are awesome, yes to get the recommended 2mg/cm2 you do need to really layer it on, but from a practical standpoint they offer some photoprotection (better than none). This is especially important when treating melasma pigmentation where the rate limiting factor is reapplication 💯
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney | Brisbane 🇦🇺
.
#sunscreen #sunscreentips #spf #melasmasunscreen #melasmatips #melasmatreatment #davinlim #dermatologistsydney

Sunscreen sticks are awesome, yes to get the recommended 2mg/cm2 you do need to really layer it on, but from a practical standpoint they offer some photoprotection (better than none). This is especially important when treating melasma pigmentation where the rate limiting factor is reapplication 💯
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney | Brisbane 🇦🇺
.
#sunscreen #sunscreentips #spf #melasmasunscreen #melasmatips #melasmatreatment #davinlim #dermatologistsydney
Tinted sunscreens are essential for maximal photoprotection especially if -
.
1️⃣You are ethnic. In patients with darker skin, the protein Opsin 3, which regulates the main pigmentation receptor melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), is highly expressed. Visible light, especially in the blue range stimulates pigmentation
.
2️⃣You have pigmentary disorders such as melasma & post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These conditions have their action spectrum in the UVB, UVA & visible light range, hence tinted sunscreens are essential 💯
.
👉SPF value: IF you are using sunscreens in the correct amount (less than 10 percent of the population), an SPF 30 is sufficient (in the context of ethnic skin, prevention of pigmentation). Lighter skin types? SPF 50. My recommendation? SPF 50+ as most under apply
.
👍🏻Easy rule to follow (all skin types): Tinted SPF in your color match, 2 finger lengths, twice daily as a starting point. Start off with applying the correct amount & frequency
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney | Brisbane 🇦🇺
.
#melasma #melasmaclinic #sunscreens #melasmasunscreens #spf #melasmaskincare #melasmatips

Tinted sunscreens are essential for maximal photoprotection especially if -
.
1️⃣You are ethnic. In patients with darker skin, the protein Opsin 3, which regulates the main pigmentation receptor melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), is highly expressed. Visible light, especially in the blue range stimulates pigmentation
.
2️⃣You have pigmentary disorders such as melasma & post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These conditions have their action spectrum in the UVB, UVA & visible light range, hence tinted sunscreens are essential 💯
.
👉SPF value: IF you are using sunscreens in the correct amount (less than 10 percent of the population), an SPF 30 is sufficient (in the context of ethnic skin, prevention of pigmentation). Lighter skin types? SPF 50. My recommendation? SPF 50+ as most under apply
.
👍🏻Easy rule to follow (all skin types): Tinted SPF in your color match, 2 finger lengths, twice daily as a starting point. Start off with applying the correct amount & frequency
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney | Brisbane 🇦🇺
.
#melasma #melasmaclinic #sunscreens #melasmasunscreens #spf #melasmaskincare #melasmatips
Here is our pick of sunscreens, textural feel is of course subjective❤️
.
✌️Tips: buy the sunscreen that you LIKE to use. Use it
.
👉Use: twice daily, regardless of sun exposure, 2 finger lengths, tinted. Without adequate photoprotection the chances of us improving your #melasma markedly diminishes
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney | Brisbane 🇦🇺
.
#melasma #melasmaclinic #melasmaclinicsydney #melasmatips #sunscreen #eltaMD #supergoop #bestsunscreen #spf

Here is our pick of sunscreens, textural feel is of course subjective❤️
.
✌️Tips: buy the sunscreen that you LIKE to use. Use it
.
👉Use: twice daily, regardless of sun exposure, 2 finger lengths, tinted. Without adequate photoprotection the chances of us improving your #melasma markedly diminishes
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney | Brisbane 🇦🇺
.
#melasma #melasmaclinic #melasmaclinicsydney #melasmatips #sunscreen #eltaMD #supergoop #bestsunscreen #spf
Tip: It is not the sunscreen brand that is important, it is the amount you use & the frequency of application.
How to apply?
Twice daily minimum. This may not be convenient for some patients, so here are practical alternatives-
AM: SPF with tint under makeup (tinted, this offers a higher concentration of iron oxide for added protection against blue light).
Reapplication options: You have 3 choices.
- Reapplication of sunscreen around midday or early afternoon.
- Tinted sunscreen sticks to areas of pigmentation. A stick formulation is better than nothing .
- Sunscreen spray; less than ideal as sprays do not offer protection in the visible light spectrum.
Why is tinting essential for melasma treatment?
Tinting or tinted sunscreens contain iron oxide. This protects against blue & visible light (also known as high energy visible light or HEV). If your sunscreen is not tinted*, you are getting exposed to visible light, hence your sun protection is incomplete.
*Other options to protect your skin against visible light include large particle titanium dioxide or pigmentary grade physical protection. This means the application turns your skin white. In reality, not many individuals can pull this look off, especially for a daily sunscreen.
For exercise or activity, this method is recommended as the sunscreen has a higher chance of ‘sticking’ as compared to tinted sunscreens.
If the proper amount of sunscreen is used, anything over an SPF of 40 is fine (in the context of melasma). Other than SPF factor (a measure of UVB), UVA ratings & attenuation of visible light is super important in the management of pigmentary disorders such as melasma & post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in skin of colour
.
👉Cosmetic elegance & colour matching: is often the rate limiting factor
.
👉Why tint? Iron oxides protect against visible light, this band of light stimulates pigment
.
👉How to use? Two fingerlengths, twice daily, regardless of exposure💯
.
👉Our pick? Elta MD, acknowledging there are many good brands with a wider range of colour matching
.
Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
The Melasma Clinic
Sydney, Australia🇦🇺
.
#sunscreen #melasmatips #bestsunscreen #spf #drdavinlim #davinlim #sydneydermatologist #themelasmaclinic #elta #eltaMD #eltasunscreens

Prevent: 90% of melasma patients who seek pigment removal have not got past this step, namely adequate photoprotection. SPF 50+ tinted, twice daily regardless of sun exposure🙏🏼🙏🏼
.
👉How to choose? Try before you buy. You need to achieve good color matching as the first step as this ensures compliance. From there, you can fine tune. Recommended brands include #Elta, La Roche, #UltraViolette & many more. Get this right before you spend money on lasers, #cosmelan peels & novel formulations of pigment correctors
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#melasmatips #melasmatreatments #dermatologistsydney #melasmaclinic #bestsunscreen #melasmaskincare #drdavinlim #melasmasunscreen #eltaMD

Very simplified tree of melasma treatment
.
👉Prevent: 90% of melasma patients have not got past this step, namely adequate photoprotection. SPF 50+ tinted, twice daily regardless of sun exposure, address IR exposure
.
👉Protect: As above, add antioxidants
.
👉Suppress: Medical therapy to suppress pigment
.
👉🔫Remove: Novel peels & lasers
.
👉👍🏻Remodel: Hardest concept to get across, suppress pigment by treating the dermis. RF microneedling, thulium lasers, senotherapeutics, collagen stimulation via polynucleotides, CAH, PLLA, PDLLA, reflect & hydrate via skin boosters
.
🏡Sydney Clinic: Last few consults available for 2024, books will reopen in Feb 2025
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#melasma #melasmatips #melasmatreatments #dermatologistsydney #melasmaclinic #melasmaskincare #drdavinlim #melasmasunscreen

We don’t employ LEDs to treat melasma as there is a fine line between photobiomodulation in the yellow & red spectrum vs flare ups with all spectrums, especially blue. There are far better & safer ways to treat melasma pigmentation
.
👉Tips: Avoid LEDs, they give little to no improvement for pigment. For skin rejuvenation in melasma patients, injectables & suitable energy based devices are infinitely better & far safer💯
.
📺LEDs from screens: have very little energy to flare up pigment, solar radiation has much higher energy, so concentrate on your daily sunscreen. Tinted, 2 finger lengths, twice daily regardless of sun exposure
.
😎Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney🇦🇺
.
#led #ledtherapy #photobiology #melasmatips #melasmatreatment #melasmaclinic #melasmaclinicsydney #sydneydermatologist #omnilux #ledmasks #bluelight

Groundhog day; sunscreens
.
👉Over 90% of melasma patients are not on first base; ie. photoprotection. Without adequate protection from radiation, your chances of solving melasma is close to zero
.
👉Start with: Correct application frequency & amount. Once sorted, worry about formulations- the highest tinted SPF in your compatible skin tone-shade. Our pick? Elta MD, stocks next week @the_melasma_clinic
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney🇦🇺
.
#melasma #melasmatips #melasmatreatments #dermatologistsydney #melasmaclinic #melasmaskincare #eltasunscreens #eltaMD #SPF #elta

If you are serious about treating pigmentation, the very first step is getting your sunscreen application correct
.
👉Tinted sunscreens protect against visible light. Visible light stimulates pigment production in conditions like melasma & post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
.
👉How to apply? 2 finger lengths, twice daily regardless of sun exposure. Spend your time, effort & money on photoprotection prior to finding skin care products, chemical peels or lasers for pigmentation
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist🇦🇺
.
#sunscreens #melasmasunscreen #melasmaclinic #bestsunscreen #spf #tintedsunscreen #skinscience #skinofcolour #bestspf

Though the prospects of the very latest pico lasers & novel chemical peels are attractive, the rate limiting factor in treating #melasma is adequate photoprotection, hence why we reinforce sunscreens with every third post. Without this, the chances of significant improvements for most forms of pigmentation significantly decreases💯
.
🔫Lasers, energy based devices & chemical peels are always adjunct to medical management & sunscreens
.
👉Sunscreen tips: 2 finger lengths, twice daily regardless of sun exposure, tinted. Get in the habit before worrying about brands
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney | Brisbane 🇦🇺
.
#melasma #melasmatips #melasmaclinic #melasmaskincare #sunscreen #melasmaclinicsydney #sydneydermatologist #drdavinlim

How do I find a color match if I have skin of color?
In Australia there are several brands of sunscreen with awesome color matches, they include Elta MD, Ultraviolette & Naked Sundays. Each company offers an array of shades (up to 13), ensuring that color matching is almost perfect.
Is sunscreen within my makeup good enough?
If you have melasma & or hyperpigmentation, the answer is no. Most make-ups will be rated as an SPF of 15+. For melasma & pigmentation, you will require a SPF of 30 at minimum, 50+ ideally. A simple solution is to combine a stand-alone sunscreen with your makeup.
What makeup does really well is to protect your skin against HEV or blue-visible light as it contains iron-oxides.
I don’t go outside, do I still need sunscreen?
Unless you live like a vampire, the answer is yes (in the context of melasma, not in general). Why? Because if you can see natural light, it has an impact on your skin. Again this is in the context of melasma (not photoaging or skin cancer mitigation). Pigment cells are highly susceptible to stimulation via UV & visible light.
Everyone ventures outside as part of activities of daily living- hanging clothes, going to the letter box, throwing out the garbage, going to the shops…etc. Even during Covid quarantine, people get ambient exposure.
Form a habit. A habit protects you from incidental UV & visible light exposure. Just do it.
How do I know if I am using enough?
To cut the long story short- one 50 ml tube – bottle should last a normal person less than one month (at the very least). For melasma patients, if this lasts longer than 2-3 weeks you are under applying sunscreen.
Does sunscreen branding matter?
In the scheme of things, no. Just use it. As previously stated you have 2 ways around it.
- Translucent non-tinted SPF 50 in addition to mineral or liquid foundation.
- Tinted sunscreen.
It is the AMOUNT & frequency that matters. Once you have achieved this, you can fine tune the brand.
What is the best melasma sunscreen for water activities?
Ideally a pigmentary grade waterproof titanium dioxide formulation is best. This leaves an opaque white sheen, it is not fashionable, but it works.
Other options include zinc oxide paste & Surf Mud tinted (better). The latter has iron oxide & zinc oxide that is waterproof.
*Tip: if you are using your daily SPF for activities, it is not enough.
We’re not here to sell you sunscreen for pigmentation, we’re here to educate you to improve your chances of success when you commence our pigment removal programs.
Are Korean sunscreens any good?
By large, Koreans produce awesome sunscreens & skincare products. Though they are not TGA approved, sunscreen testing in Korea is stringent, & hence their UVB & UVA protection can come highly recommended.
Beauty of Joseon makes awesome photoprotective products, however they are skewed towards lighter skin shades- think type 1-3 skin. The two flagship products include-
Relief Sun sunscreen, SPF 50+, lightweight organic sunscreen.
Matt Stick applicator that has high UVA coverage, SPF 50+.
*For opaque sunscreens that do not have tinting, you will still require a layer of iron oxide to protect against HEV/visible light. Foundation makeup over sunscreen can be used for additional photoprotection.
Does light from the TV, monitors or phone play a role in melasma?
In practical terms, no. You receive far more radiation in the car or even looking out the window. If you can see natural light, you are getting radiation. Concentrate on protection of UV and high energy visible light received naturally, in contrast to radiation from devices.
Are aerosol sunscreens good for melasma?
They are better than nothing, but not good enough because they do not have tinting (lacks iron oxides). On the flip side, if you use this on top of your makeup (which has iron oxides), then they offer another layer of UVB and UVA protection.
Sunscreen sticks are awesome, yes to get the recommended 2mg/cm2 you do need to really layer it on, but from a practical standpoint they offer some photoprotection (better than none). This is especially important when treating melasma pigmentation where the rate limiting factor is reapplication 💯
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney | Brisbane 🇦🇺
.
#sunscreen #sunscreentips #spf #melasmasunscreen #melasmatips #melasmatreatment #davinlim #dermatologistsydney

Aerosol sunscreens can be useful, especially for the second sunscreen application around midday or before your drive-commune back from work. You are paying significantly more (gram for gram) as more than half of the volume is propellant💯
.
👉Concepts: Iron oxide in your makeup provides protection against HEV (high energy visible) - blue light. Adjunct photoprotection can help against UVB and UVA. For melasma pigment, every bit of protection counts. Without adequate photoprotection your chances of pigment reduction is very low
.
👉Pigment solutions: book an appointment with our clinicians in Sydney or Brisbane for pigment management, we treat all forms of pigmentation, from melasma through to age spots
.
Dr Davin Lim
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#sunscreens #aerosolSPF #sunscreen #melasmatips #drdavinlim #davinlim #dermatologistsydney #melasmaclinic

Get the foundations of your pigment removal journey down pat before worrying about ingredients, lasers or peels
.
💯👉Facts: the efficacy of sunscreen is reduced over time, hence the requirement for reapplication. It can be as simple as an aerosol spray that takes less than 5 seconds to apply to the face/neck. Fine tune your habits, then worry about the finer points of photoprotection
.
❓What is your favorite sunscreen?
.
😎Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
#melasmaclinic #melasma #melasmaskincare #sunscreens #sunscreentips #melasmatips

Simplified over the counter pigment correctors💯
.
👉A low level, simple, cost effective pigment guide is as follows
.
🌞AM: Vitamin C 10-20% serum, SPF 50+, mineral makeup with iron oxide. Reapplication of sunscreen is advised, but not always practically possible (hence why I advocate aerosol sunscreens, despite the fact that more than half the can is propellant)
.
🌗PM: Azelaic acid 10-20% nightly, AHA serum 12-18% every 7 to 10 days
.
🍊Vitamin C acts an an antioxidant in the morning plus it inhibits pigment production, azelaic acid is a low activity pigment enzyme inhibitor, pulsed AHA serum acts as an exfoliant to lighten & brighten
.
Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #davinlim #melasmatreatment #pigmentskincare #melasma #dermatologistsydney #sydneydermatologist #pigmenttips #azelaicacid

What about sunscreen sticks?
Sticks are another awesome way to protect yourself from UV & visible light. Sticks are great for reapplication in melasma prone patients * to address specific areas of pigmentation such as the cheekbones & upper lip. A tinted stick is best.
MDSolarsciences Solar Stick is a great mineral stick with SPF 40 that is tinted.
- Water resistant up to 80 minutes
- Safe for sensitive skin
Another stick application that we endorse is Elta MD sunscreen stick.
*I am referring to treatment of melasma pigment only, most people don’t ‘stick apply the entire face, that’s not practical & it takes too much time
Are sunscreens that contain vitamin C, E & ferulic acid any good?
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C), tocopherol (vitamin E) & ferulic acid are powerful antioxidants. These compounds protect against free radical damage. Additionally vitamin C can reduce pigment production, especially in melasma patients.
Though these formulations are novel, their absolute concentration is much less than stand alone formulations such as CE Ferulic Acid. Our take? First layer on a combination serum (CE Ferulic), followed by sunscreen.
What is polypodium extract & how does it work?
Polypodium extract is a powerful antioxidant with some photoprotective action. It can be ingested orally (tablets) or as an additive in sunscreen – Heliocare brand with Fernblock.
We prefer patients to consider oral supplementation of polypodium extract (ideally 480 to 550 mg twice a day), in conjunction with their sunscreen of choice. Oral polypodium has more evidence behind it, as compared to topical found in sunscreens.
You are far better off concentrating on sunscreen application frequency & amount compared to shopping around for novel ingredients.
What about niacinamide in sunscreens?
Novel. Much like vitamin C & E, vitamin B3 can be found in sunscreens. Niacinamide can reduce skin irritation as it is an anti-inflammatory. It is a mild antioxidant & has, in theory, photoprotective roles.
Oral supplementation is more effective, again it is the amount of sunscreen & application frequency that is most important in melasma patients.
*Oral dose of 500 mg vitamin B3 twice daily may reduce the risk of certain skin cancers by as much as 23%
What about vitamin D levels & sunscreen?
Pop a vitamin D supplement if your levels are down. We take vitamin C, E, & even apply vitamin A (retinol & retinoids), so what is the big deal with vitamin D supplementation? Low vitamin D levels is just a lame excuse not to use sunscreen.
Will my melasma respond if I am compliant with sunscreens?
Your odds go up to 80-85% with a combination of absolute photoprotection, pigment correctors, as well lasers. 15 to 20% of melasma is resistant to treatment, despite optimal compliance. A higher rate of melasma resistance is seen in-
- Darker skin patients
- Low contrast melasma
- Dermal melasma
- Melasma of the upper lip
- Melasma in males
What does a typical melasma treatment program look like?
AM: Vitamin C (as tolerated), SPF
Afternoon: Reapply SPF
PM: Pigment corrector
Every two weeks: Pico lasers (4-8 sessions)
What other skin care actives can help correct melasma?
The usual pigment correctors apply. Once you have understood & practiced proper sunscreen application, you can graduate to pigment inhibitors. They include-
- HQ in rotation therapy.
- Ascorbic acid +/- ferulic acid 10-20% vitamin C
- Vitamin E (with C & ferulic), mainly as an antioxidant
- Arbutin (Alpha over beta)
- Kojic acid in low concentrations
- Azelaic acid 20% lotion
- Licorice root extracts
- Cystemaine 5 to 7% short contact
- Exfoliants are useful – lactic, glycolic, citric & salicylic acids
- Niacinamide for melasma patients with sensitive skin
- Retinol or retinoids
- MelaB3– weak, but readily available
The ideal combination depends on the phase of melasma treatment you are on. Our clinicians at The Melasma Clinic will guide you.
Does a lesser SPF sourced overseas sunscreen offer as much protection as Australian sunscreens?
It depends on the sunscreen & the way it is tested. All sunscreens should be tested at 2 mg/cm2 to ascertain the SPF rating (value assigned to sunburn time). For melasma it is more complex than that, namely we need to take into account UVA & visible light values. Refer to the question on UVA measurement below.
How is UVA protection measured & is it important?
In the context of protecting against sunburn, UVA has a lesser importance than UVB, in the context of sorting out your melasma, UVA blocking is critical.
Measuring UVA protection in sunscreen involves several methods and standards. The most common ones are:
Critical Wavelength Method: This test measures the wavelength at which the sunscreen transmits 90% of the UV radiation. A critical wavelength of 370 nm or higher indicates broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection.
Boots Star Rating System: Measures UVA protection relative to UVB protection. It assigns a rating from 0 to 5 stars based on the ratio of UVA to UVB protection.
UVA Protection Factor. This method uses in vitro techniques to assess the absorbance of UVA radiation by the sunscreen. The UVAPF value indicates the level of UVA protection.
FDA (U.S.): Requires sunscreens labeled as “broad-spectrum” to have a critical wavelength of at least 370 nm and a certain ratio of UVA to UVB protection.
Australia/New Zealand: Uses a combination of PPD and critical wavelength methods to assess UVA protection.
By using these methods, manufacturers can accurately determine and label the UVA protection level of their sunscreens.
We don’t employ LEDs to treat melasma as there is a fine line between photobiomodulation in the yellow & red spectrum vs flare ups with all spectrums, especially blue. There are far better & safer ways to treat melasma pigmentation
.
👉Tips: Avoid LEDs, they give little to no improvement for pigment. For skin rejuvenation in melasma patients, injectables & suitable energy based devices are infinitely better & far safer💯
.
📺LEDs from screens: have very little energy to flare up pigment, solar radiation has much higher energy, so concentrate on your daily sunscreen. Tinted, 2 finger lengths, twice daily regardless of sun exposure
.
😎Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney🇦🇺
.
#led #ledtherapy #photobiology #melasmatips #melasmatreatment #melasmaclinic #melasmaclinicsydney #sydneydermatologist #omnilux #ledmasks #bluelight

We don’t employ LEDs to treat melasma as there is a fine line between photobiomodulation in the yellow & red spectrum vs flare ups with all spectrums, especially blue. There are far better & safer ways to treat melasma pigmentation
.
👉Tips: Avoid LEDs, they give little to no improvement for pigment. For skin rejuvenation in melasma patients, injectables & suitable energy based devices are infinitely better & far safer💯
.
📺LEDs from screens: have very little energy to flare up pigment, solar radiation has much higher energy, so concentrate on your daily sunscreen. Tinted, 2 finger lengths, twice daily regardless of sun exposure
.
😎Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney🇦🇺
.
#led #ledtherapy #photobiology #melasmatips #melasmatreatment #melasmaclinic #melasmaclinicsydney #sydneydermatologist #omnilux #ledmasks #bluelight
Blue light sources including monitors & phones have too little fluence (power) to simulate pigment cells in patients with melasma💯
.
👉What about LED masks? That’s a different story, LEDs can potentially flare up pigment, especially blue light in darker skin types & or conditions such as #melasma & post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Though red & yellow light can potentially modulate pigment cell activity via photobiomodulation, there’s a very fine line between therapeutic effects & flare ups (there are many better ways to safely address pigment)
.
👉Summary: the greatest traction you will achieve is to attenuate blue light sources with simple tinted sunscreen (with iron oxide), 2 finger lengths, twice daily, regardless of sun exposure
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney | Brisbane 🇦🇺
.
#melasmaclinic #tmc #sunscreens #bluelight #melasmatreatment #melasmatreatmentsydney #pigmenttreatment #ledmasks #pigmentationclinic #drdavinlim #sunscreentips

Blue light sources including monitors & phones have too little fluence (power) to simulate pigment cells in patients with melasma💯
.
👉What about LED masks? That’s a different story, LEDs can potentially flare up pigment, especially blue light in darker skin types & or conditions such as #melasma & post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Though red & yellow light can potentially modulate pigment cell activity via photobiomodulation, there’s a very fine line between therapeutic effects & flare ups (there are many better ways to safely address pigment)
.
👉Summary: the greatest traction you will achieve is to attenuate blue light sources with simple tinted sunscreen (with iron oxide), 2 finger lengths, twice daily, regardless of sun exposure
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Sydney | Brisbane 🇦🇺
.
#melasmaclinic #tmc #sunscreens #bluelight #melasmatreatment #melasmatreatmentsydney #pigmenttreatment #ledmasks #pigmentationclinic #drdavinlim #sunscreentips
Hidden sources of radiation for melasma, infrared or thermal radiation is well within the action spectrum, hence attenuation between 750-1,000 + required 💯
.
👉Cooks (lots of infrared radiation)
.
👉Saunas, lots of heat
.
👉😎Best protection: green lens shields, protects IR. It’s a very small investment. You look ridiculous but it works
.
👎🏼Mediocre to minimal protection: polypodium extract🍃
.
🙏🏼If you are undergoing our melasma treatments & if we have identified significant radiation sources, you will be instructed as to how to attenuate these wavelengths. It is important for results. It’s not the laser, it’s not the settings, it’s not the ingredients, it’s understanding the RATE LIMITING FACTORS of exogenous radiation. 99.99% of melasma papers & talks don’t discuss. That’s why our hit rate is extraordinary, it’s understanding photobiology ☄️
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
Ref: Laser Safety Face Shield 435 IR Nd:YAG (1064nm)
https://lasersafetyindustries.com/products/laser-face-shield-190-375-nm-820-1080-nm
.
#photobiology #melasmaclinicsydney #melasmatreatment #melasmatips #melasmaremedy #themelasmaclinic #drdavinlim

Hidden sources of radiation for melasma, infrared or thermal radiation is well within the action spectrum, hence attenuation between 750-1,000 + required 💯
.
👉Cooks (lots of infrared radiation)
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👉Saunas, lots of heat
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👉😎Best protection: green lens shields, protects IR. It’s a very small investment. You look ridiculous but it works
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👎🏼Mediocre to minimal protection: polypodium extract🍃
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🙏🏼If you are undergoing our melasma treatments & if we have identified significant radiation sources, you will be instructed as to how to attenuate these wavelengths. It is important for results. It’s not the laser, it’s not the settings, it’s not the ingredients, it’s understanding the RATE LIMITING FACTORS of exogenous radiation. 99.99% of melasma papers & talks don’t discuss. That’s why our hit rate is extraordinary, it’s understanding photobiology ☄️
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The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
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Ref: Laser Safety Face Shield 435 IR Nd:YAG (1064nm)
https://lasersafetyindustries.com/products/laser-face-shield-190-375-nm-820-1080-nm
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#photobiology #melasmaclinicsydney #melasmatreatment #melasmatips #melasmaremedy #themelasmaclinic #drdavinlim
What about VL or blue light protection, how is it measured?
Measuring the protection provided by iron oxides in sunscreen against visible light involves evaluating the sunscreen’s ability to block or absorb visible light wavelengths (400–700 nm).
As of 2025, there are no International guidelines regarding labeling of inactive compounds in sunscreen; this includes iron oxide in sunscreen. A practical approach is to use the darkest tint on your skin so you don’t look weird.
Here is the check list for sunscreen application.
Action it, revisit it in 2 weeks, & fine tune it.
- Apply correct amount – 2 finger lengths for face & neck
- Frequency is twice daily regardless of sun-exposure
- Use tinted sunscreen as a daily
- Use total block out (white residue) for activity
- Never miss an application
Once you have achieved this, you can then fine tune your choices to add antioxidants, high UVA1 protection & better blue light protection (higher iron oxides) as well as IR protection.
What is a simple melasma treatment protocol that involves sunscreen?
OK, now that you got your sunscreen application PERFECT, you can move to ‘pigment correctors.’ A simple guide is-
AM: Sunscreen
Midday: Reapplication
PM: Azelaic acid 10-20% nightly
That is as simple as it gets. Take a photo BEFORE this program, follow it, then retake a photo 8 weeks after. If you are doing it right, there is a 50% chance your melasma pigment will be better. For more results, visit us (pending availability of appointments).
What are the implications of TGA & sunscreens in Australia?
Individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types I and II have lower natural defenses against UVB, hence requiring higher levels of sun protection. These lighter skin types are at increased risk for sunburn, DNA damage and skin cancer.
In contrast, darker skin types (Fitzpatrick III to VI) have better natural protection against UVB but are more prone to hyperpigmentation caused by VL and UVA1. In the context of solving pigmentation, concentrate less on the UVB rating & more on UVA & VL protection.
The Australasian College of Dermatologists recommends using sunscreen with an SPF 50 or higher. For optimal coverage, sunscreen should be applied at a thickness of 2 mg/cm², which corresponds to approximately 35 ml for full-body application.
SPF ratings primarily measure protection against UVB and to a lesser extent UVA2. However, they do not account for UVA1 or VL protection.
Nanosized and micronized formulations of these inorganic filters are more cosmetically appealing but offer less protection against UVA and VL. In contrast, larger opaque pigments offer better protection against VL-induced photodermatoses. They are less prone to light-induced reactions, making them non-toxic and non-allergenic (49). However, they can leave a chalky appearance, which can be a concern for skin of color individuals
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates primary sunscreens and some secondary products like SPF15+ skincare cosmetics or moisturizers. Only safety-assessed ingredients are approved for use in sunscreens.
Emerging trends show an increase in the availability of overseas sunscreens through online sales, which can impact consumer choices. However, it is crucial to note that while these overseas-branded sunscreens may offer cosmetic elegance and high SPF ratings, they are not approved by the TGA as their effectiveness has not been tested.
In my personal opinion, whilst we do require a governing body, the TGA is focused on sunscreens for lighter skin types. TGA, like Medicare, is a racist organization, focused on treating skin conditions of lighter skin types, with much less emphasis on treatment of darker skin individuals.
What do the studies show?
There have been several studies highlighting the importance of sunscreen in the management of melasma:
- A randomized study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2001)investigated the effects of using broad-spectrum sunscreen in patients with melasma. The study found that consistent sunscreen use significantly reduced melasma severity and prevented further pigmentation.
- In a study by Goh et al. (1996) in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen combined with hydroquinone treatment showed a marked improvement in melasma. The group using sunscreen alone also saw significant benefits, suggesting that sunscreen plays a critical role in both the prevention and treatment of melasma.
- A 2013 study published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology explored the effects of sunscreen application alone. The results demonstrated that patients who used broad-spectrum sunscreen daily had less pigmentation and a reduced risk of melasma recurrence.
- A study in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (2014) emphasized that daily application of high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential for maintaining treatment results in melasma patients. It suggested that patients who did not consistently use sunscreen experienced higher rates of recurrence.
These studies collectively underscore the critical role of daily sunscreen application in managing melasma, both in preventing its onset and reducing the risk of recurrence after treatment.
A SummaryDavin’s viewpoint on Melasma Sunscreens
Dr Davin Lim | Dermatologist
The Melasma Clinic, Sydney | Australia
The greatest amount of time spent in the management of melasma & pigmentation is to understand the level of photoprotection of the individual. This takes into account your skin type, & every single aspect of your exposure to radiation ranging from UVB, UVA, visible light & IR or infrared light.
I can not stress the importance of radiation protection & hence why this webpage & guide is written. The biggest mistakes we see is that patients spend money on Cosmelan peels, pico lasers & expensive skin care, only to neglect the primary factor that instigates melasma pigmentation- UV radiation.
Facts. Greater than 90% of melasma patients understand the importance & role of sun protection, however only 5% of patients are doing it correctly. Do not spend your time & money on creams & lasers without understanding & practicing photoprotection.
Here is some quick math- for an indicated SPF (nothing to do with UVA & visible light protection, but it’s used as an example of the amount of sunscreen used), the amount of sunscreen is 2 mg per centimeter squared for the head and neck per application.
If you apply 4 mg per day, a 50 mg tube will last you 12 days. Chances are, your sunscreen use is 4-10 times less than that.
Time invested in sunscreen: it’s not hard, it doesn’t take much time. You brush your teeth twice daily, it takes you 1-2 minutes to do so. It takes you half as long to apply sunscreen. It’s a habit, start it & your melasma journey will be so much better.