Melasma doesn't take vacations.

Summer is here—and that means it’s prime time for hyperpigmentation struggles. If you’re prone to dark spots, this is the season to double down on prevention.
Here’s your hyperpigmentation survival guide:

Sunscreen. Every single day.

No exceptions, even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors near windows.
I highly recommend mineral sunscreens (also known as physical sunscreens) that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays, rather than absorbing them like chemical sunscreens do. They’re also less likely to cause irritation or heat-related flare-ups—especially important for those with melasma or sensitive skin.

Bonus: Tinted mineral sunscreens offer added protection against visible light, which can also trigger pigmentation in deeper skin tones.

Pro tip: Keep a powder or stick sunscreen in your bag for easy reapplication throughout the day.

Sun protection beyond sunscreen.

A wide-brimmed hat is a non-negotiable if you’re prone to pigment. Baseball caps don’t protect your cheeks or jawline—common areas for melasma and sun-induced spots.

If you’re investing in lasers, peels, or expensive skincare and skipping the hat? You're undoing your hard work. Shop my favorite hats here.

Stay cool.

Melasma isn’t just triggered by sunlight—heat alone can cause flare-ups. Even if you’re in the shade or indoors, elevated skin temperature can stimulate melanocytes (your pigment-producing cells).

Stay cool at the beach or pool with a neck fan or even a hat with built-in fans. Avoid steam rooms, saunas, and hot yoga if you’re in a flare.

Vitamin C: THD Ascorbate is a game changer.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects skin from oxidative stress, helps brighten uneven tone, and supports collagen production. Use daily in the morning to protect against pigment.

Not all Vitamin C is created equal—THD Ascorbate (Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate) is an oil-soluble, stabilized form that:

• Penetrates deeper into the skin

• Is less irritating than traditional L-ascorbic acid

• Has a longer shelf life

• Pairs well with SPF for enhanced photoprotection

My favorites:
• Dear Lucy Marine Antioxidant Serum
• Revision C+ Correcting Complex 30%

🛒 Shop all my THD-Ascorbate Vitamin C picks here.

Retinol: your nighttime pigment corrector.

Retinol promotes cell turnover, which helps lift pigment and reduce uneven texture. It also enhances the performance of your other products by improving ingredient penetration.

Bonus: Long-term use supports collagen production and helps with fine lines and pores.

Start slow, 2–3 nights per week, and increase as tolerated. Always pair with SPF in the morning. You can read more about retinols here and shop all our favorite retinols here.

Already dealing with pigment or melasma?

Correct with targeted treatments.

• ISDIN MelaClear Advanced: A powerhouse pigment corrector with tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and niacin. It targets melanin production, inflammation, and oxidative stress—the trifecta behind most dark spots. Gentle yet effective, and safe for summer use.
• Prescription hydroquinone: A gold standard for pigment (short-term use only and under guidance).

In-office treatments that help.

• Microneedling – Stimulates collagen and breaks up pigment; safe even in warmer months.
• Chemical peels – Great for melasma and PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation).
• IPL or Resurfacing lasers – Can be effective but must be timed carefully around sun exposure and skin type.

Consistency = results.

No matter what treatments or products you use, the foundation stays the same:
☀️ SPF (mineral) + Vitamin C (THD Ascorbate) + Retinol + Sun protection

Hyperpigmentation is a marathon, not a sprint—but with the right tools and habits, progress is 100% possible.

Laura Beacham, MMSc, PA-C

Laura is a dedicated Physician Assistant at Dermatology Associates of GA, where she brings expertise across the Medical, Cosmetic, and Pediatric dermatology fields. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Laura's educational journey led her to Atlanta, where she earned her Masters in Medical Science from Emory University School of Medicine's PA Program, one of the top five in the nation. With a commitment to personalized patient care, Laura utilizes an extensive range of treatments including medical grade and prescription topical and systemic medications, neuromodulators, soft tissue fillers, biostimulators, and numerous laser therapies. In addition to her clinical responsibilities, Laura plays an active role in medical education as an Adjunct Clinical Lecturer and Preceptor at Emory School of Medicine. She is also credited with developing the Dermatology modules for the residency program of COPE Health Solutions.