UV protection is only part of the discussion
AAD’s melasma self-care guidance recommends a tinted sunscreen containing iron oxide, in addition to appropriate broad-spectrum SPF protection, because visible light can worsen melasma, especially in darker skin tones.[source]
A moisturizer’s tint or a familiar mineral ingredient should not be assumed to establish the full protection profile. Check the actual sunscreen label and discuss an option that is practical to use consistently.
The best-fitting plan is one a person can maintain
Shade, protective clothing and a suitable hat are part of a broader strategy. Sunscreen remains relevant when a pigment cream is used; a treatment does not replace it.[source]
For product comparisons, ask whether the proposed routine includes a separate sunscreen purchase. A monthly cream price can look complete while leaving out an essential part of the care plan and its ongoing cost.
Keep the accompanying protection attached to results
The cysteamine-versus-hydroquinone study cited in our reviews required tinted sunscreen in both groups. It would be inaccurate to retell those outcomes as if the cream alone had been tested without that surrounding care.[source]
This is a broader reading habit: identify co-treatments and instructions before applying a study to ordinary use. If a clinician has supplied a personal plan, follow that guidance and the current product labels. Our role is to make the components visible, not select a sunscreen or treatment schedule for an individual.
Sources & further reading
Provider pages establish what a brand markets. Clinical and regulatory sources establish the limits of the evidence. Each source has its own last-checked date below.
- AAD: melasma self-careAAD guidance rechecked October 10, 2026. · Checked October 10, 2026
- Lima et al.: 5% cysteamine versus 4% hydroquinone2020 trial; 40 women; not a trial of the current 7% Cyspera Intensive formula · Checked October 8, 2026