Why Melasma Often Flares Up After a Day in the Sun

Have you noticed your melasma worsens after being outside, even if it’s just for a few minutes? That’s not a coincidence. Sun exposure is one of the most powerful triggers for this condition. 

At Skin Center of South Miami, Dr. Franz Kerdel and our team frequently work with people who experience melasma flare-ups from sunlight. Understanding why this happens is the first step to managing it.

Why Sun Exposure Makes Melasma Worse

Melasma is a pigmentary condition that causes brown or gray-brown patches, most often on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Ultraviolet (UV) light stimulates the melanocytes in your skin, which are the cells responsible for producing pigment. When these cells are already overactive, as in melasma, even brief sun exposure can cause pigment to increase.

Recent research suggests visible light, particularly blue light, can also contribute to flare-ups. Heat and inflammation may worsen the condition, too, which is why even indirect sun exposure or being outside on a hot day can impact your skin. 

Living in South Miami or Pinecrest, where sunshine is the norm, naturally makes it more challenging to avoid these triggers.

What You Can Do About It

If you’re prone to melasma, daily prevention is essential, even on overcast days or when you’re indoors near windows. The goal is to minimize your skin’s exposure to both ultraviolet and visible light.

Here are a few steps that can help reduce recurrence:

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every morning. Choose a mineral-based option with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Sunscreens with iron oxides may help protect against visible light, as well.
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours if you’re outdoors, and immediately after sweating or swimming.
• Wear wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses whenever you’re outside.
• Avoid peak sun hours (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) or stay in the shade when possible.
• Limit heat exposure, such as saunas, hot yoga, or prolonged time outdoors in high temperatures, as heat may also worsen melasma for some people.

Take Control of Your Melasma With Expert Dermatologic Care

With the right care, you can get your skin back on track. Skin Center of South Miami also offers treatments like topical lightening agents, chemical peels, and laser therapy to address existing melasma and hyperpigmentation. 

Call 305-740-6181 to schedule a visit and talk with a board-certified dermatologist who knows how to treat melasma in South Florida’s sunny climate.