How Can I Treat Melasma In The Summer?

Our faces are more than skin deep. For many, they are a canvas of confidence, expression, and identity. So when dark, patchy areas of pigmentation start appearing across our cheeks, forehead, or upper lip, it can feel overwhelming, disheartening and confusing. Often confused with hyperpigmentation, melasma is a common and chronic skin condition that affects millions of women across the world. While there is no cure for this skin condition, there are treatments and lifestyle changes you can make all year around (yes in the summer too) that can help to minimize your flare ups.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a chronic skin disorder characterized by symmetric, blotchy, brown or grayish-brown patches, typically on the face. It's caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for our skin colour, and is classified as a form of hyperpigmentation. It’s often nicknamed the “mask of pregnancy,” but its impact isn’t limited to expectant mothers.

What Causes Melasma?

Melasma is multifactorial; meaning it has several contributing causes, often overlapping:

• Hormonal fluctuations: Estrogen and progesterone play significant roles. This is why melasma is common during pregnancy, with birth control pills, or hormone replacement therapy.

• Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays stimulate melanocytes (the pigment-producing cells in your skin) to ramp up melanin production.

• Heat and visible light: Beyond UV rays, heat and even blue light from screens can worsen melasma.

• Genetics: A family history increases your risk.

• Skin type: Melasma is more common in people with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types III to VI), who naturally have more active melanocytes.

Who Gets Melasma?

While melasma can affect anyone, it's most frequently seen in:

• Women, especially between the ages of 20 and 40.

• Pregnant individuals, leading to its nickname.

• Those with darker complexions, such as people of Latin, Asian, Middle Eastern, or North African descent.

• People on hormonal treatments or oral contraceptives.

That said, while it's less commonly diagnosed or discussed,men can get melasma too.

What Are Common Melasma Triggers?

Melasma isn’t just stubborn; it’s triggered and worsened by a host of everyday factors, which can make it feel like you’re always fighting an uphill battle:

• Sun exposure: Even a short walk outside without SPF can deepen pigmentation.

• Inadequate sun protection: Using sunscreen irregularly or not reapplying every 2 hours can hinder progress.

• Heat and inflammation: Hot yoga, steamy showers, or even certain aggressive skincare treatments can exacerbate melasma.

• Excessive light: computer screens and even cell phone usage

• Photosensitizing products: Some ingredients (like certain acids or fragrances) may trigger inflammation and worsen pigmentation.

How to Treat Melasma During the Summer Months

Summer can be the most discouraging season for those with melasma as sunlight is stronger and outdoor activity is more frequent, but with the right approach, it is possible to manage melasma effectively—even in the hot summer months.

1. Daily Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

• Use SPF 50 or higher, ideally one with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for physical UV protection.

• Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outside.

• Don’t forget hats and sunglasses—shade is your friend.

2. Topical Treatments

• Vitamin C, which helps with pigment and offers antioxidant protection.

• Brightalive, a non-hydroquinone and non-retinol that is clinically proven to increase luminosity, visibly improve skin clarity and fade the appearance of dark spots

3. Avoid Overheating the Skin

• Limit steam rooms, hot yoga, and intense heat exposure when possible.

• Use cooling sprays or fans post-sun exposure to reduce inflammation.

4. Avoid Irritants & Manage Stress

• Avoid harsh exfoliants or overuse of acids.

• Believe it or not, stress can exacerbate melasma, so finding effective ways to manage it can help

5. Summer Safe Skincare Treatments

• Combination treatments like our Summer Skin Refresher that pair Dermal Infusions with Microneedling can help to breakup pigment, infuse the skin with calming ingredients like beta glucan and licorice derivative and reduce the need for major repair in the fall.

If you’re feeling frustrated, know that you’re not alone. Several team members, including Nurse Barb have melasma and like you have to deal with increased flare ups in the summer months. Melasma is challenging, but it’s not impossible. With consistent care (especially treating melasma in the summer), education, and support, many patients see meaningful improvement. And even on the tough days, remember: your skin doesn’t define your worth—your strength, resilience, and care for yourself do.