Melasma only occurs on the areas of your face that are exposed to the sun. Sun exposure can further darken your melasma.

Melasma is caused by a combination of fluctuating hormone levels and sun exposure. Your skin naturally darkens, or tans, in response to sun exposure. This darkening is caused by the pigment melanin. In women with melasma, there is too much melanin in certain areas of the face.

If you have melasma or have had it in the past, you need to protect your skin from the sun. Even minimal daily exposure can cause your melasma to return or can darken existing spots. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day with an SPF of 30 or greater that contains UVA and UVB protection. UVA rays can have a greater effect on your Melasma than UVB rays and are intense all year long, even on cloudy days. They can even penetrate car windows, so make sure your sunscreen has broad-spectrum protection. Also try to shield your face from the sun with hats or visors.