Pick the right sunscreen, not just a high number
SPF measures protection against UVB only. Melasma is driven by UVA and visible light as well, so the label matters more than the number. Look for "broad spectrum" plus a PA rating of PA+++ or higher, and for melasma specifically, a tint. Tinted sunscreens contain iron oxides, which are currently the only widely available ingredient that blocks the visible blue light that stimulates pigment in brown skin. A clear SPF 50 gel will underperform a tinted SPF 30 cream for melasma.
Mineral filters — zinc oxide and titanium dioxide — are the usual pregnancy-safe choice and sit on the surface rather than absorbing into skin. They are also less likely to sting sensitised pregnancy skin.
Use enough, and use it again
- Quantity — two finger-lengths of product covers the face, ears and neck. Most people apply a quarter of what the SPF rating was tested with.
- Timing — apply as the last step of your morning routine, before makeup, every single day, monsoon included.
- Reapplication — every three hours if you are outdoors or near windows. A tinted compact or powder sunscreen makes this realistic over makeup.
- Edges — the upper lip, the jawline and the front of the neck are the most commonly missed areas and among the most commonly affected.
Protect beyond the bottle
Sunscreen is one layer of several. A wide-brimmed hat with a brim of at least seven centimetres, or a plain umbrella, cuts facial UV dramatically and needs no reapplication. Standard car and auto windows block most UVB but let UVA through, so the side of your face nearest the window darkens faster on a long commute — sit on the shaded side where you can, or use a removable UV film.
Indoor heat matters too. Standing over a tawa or a pressure cooker raises facial skin temperature enough to trigger pigment production independent of light. Use the rear burner, keep the exhaust running, and step back while steam releases.
What to avoid while you are protecting
Every bit of inflammation you add undoes sun care. Skip scrubs, DIY lemon or besan-and-haldi packs left on until they dry and crack, upper-lip waxing during an active flare, and any brightening product that stings. Inflamed skin pigments more, not less.
How long before you see a difference
Consistent sun care usually stops melasma from deepening within four to six weeks, and existing patches begin to lighten over three to six months as the skin turns over. The patches that fade first are the shallow, sharply defined ones. Start now rather than after delivery — preventing new pigment is far easier than removing it.