Does Sunscreen Help With Hyperpigmentation? What To Know About SPF and Dark Spots
Have you ever noticed darker spots or patches of skin on your face and wondered what they are? You’re probably looking at hyperpigmentation, and yes, sunscreen can absolutely help protect you from these sometimes undesirable marks.
Sunscreen and hyperpigmentation are closely linked. SPF can help prevent hyperpigmentation from happening in the first place and stop it from expanding or darkening. That’s because hyperpigmentation is sometimes caused by ultraviolet light (UV) from the sun, and repeated exposure can make those marks even darker.
High-quality SPF like COOLA products should be part of any skin routine focused on even skin tone. Consistency is key: applying SPF every day can help manage hyperpigmentation and keep you glowing.
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of the skin that darken due to excess melanin, the same pigment that causes your tan. But unlike a tan, hyperpigmentation is uneven and appears in patches. These can appear anywhere on the face or body, but are most undesirable on the face. Hyperpigmentation may be triggered or worsened by unprotected sun exposure.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
While it might seem “obvious” that darker skin is caused by the sun’s UV rays, that’s not always the case.1 Hyperpigmentation can come from a number of different triggers:
Sun exposure
Exposure to the sun, especially prolonged or unprotected exposure, is a common cause of hyperpigmentation. UV light stimulates melanin production as a natural protectant, which is why many people get a glowing tan after spending time in the sun. However, sometimes areas of the skin don’t fade back to their original tone. In other cases, dark patches may appear on a patch of skin that was repeatedly or severely sunburnt.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Your skin may also respond to irritation by producing melanin. Flare-ups of acne and other irritations can lead to permanently darker patches of the skin. Similarly, some injuries can result in patches of slightly darker skin tone.
Interestingly, studies show that SPF products are still beneficial for PIH and other non-sun-related hyperpigmentation.2 Protecting these areas from excessive sun exposure helps control the skin tone.
Hormonal changes
Multiple hormones can impact your skin tone. Changes in estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy or menopause can lead to melasma, a hormone-related type of hyperpigmentation. Melasma can also be caused by oral contraceptive use or hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Other hormones, including cortisol, can impact the likelihood of developing melasma. So avoiding stress is always a win.
Genetic factors
Some people are more prone to hyperpigmentation because of their genes. If one of your parents or grandparents had areas of hyperpigmentation, there’s a chance you could be susceptible, too. Thankfully, hyperpigmentation is harmless and even avoidable in many cases.
Does sunscreen help with hyperpigmentation?
Absolutely. Sunscreen is your skin's defense when it comes to sun protection and fighting hyperpigmentation. In addition to mitigating the effects of harmful UV rays, sunscreen may also prevent those dark spots from barging in uninvited.
Picture this: you're basking in the warm sun, but your skin is gently guarded by a layer of sunscreen. As long as you’re using broad-spectrum SPF, you’re doing the best for your skin when it comes to warding off hyperpigmentation. The right SPF can even support the results of other skincare treatments.
How sunscreen supports a more even-looking skin tone
Now you know that SPF is the best thing you can do for your skin to prevent hyperpigmentation. But how does it work?
Preventing new hyperpigmentation
You already know that UV exposure triggers melanin production. While a glowing tan might be your goal, you can’t guarantee that without regular SPF application. Your skin may rebel and darken in patches, producing hyperpigmentation.
Daily SPF use helps reduce ongoing stimulation of melanin, so if you do tan, you’ll do it gently, gradually, and safely. Using SPF in this way helps prevent the likelihood of isolated, darker patches of skin.
Supporting existing hyperpigmentation
Does sunscreen help with hyperpigmentation that already exists? Yes, it can do. With regular application, your skin is better protected from UV damage, promoting its natural renewal cycle. As your skin starts to rejuvenate itself, those darker patches may fade over time.
You may also find that topical treatments for melasma and similar conditions are more effective when they’re protected from potential interference from UV exposure.
What to look for in sunscreen for hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation SPF should be broad-spectrum, which means it offers protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Always opt for SPF 30 or higher, and choose SPF 50 if you’re likely to be out in the sun for a long time. SPF 50 is also ideal when the UV index is high.
Sunscreen for hyperpigmentation should be comfortable for daily use. Overly greasy sunscreen options aren’t ideal for wearing under makeup or mixing with other skincare products. Look for sunscreen that’s light yet effective.
You might consider both mineral and chemical sunscreen products. Many chemical sunscreen products are extremely lightweight and ideal for combining with multi-step skincare routines. COOLA’s fragrance-free SPF 50 face sunscreen is designed specifically to provide your face with extra protection, and it is ideal for wearing under makeup.
If you’re concerned about hyperpigmentation from acne-related PIH, consider an oil-free SPF like COOLA’s Clear Skin Moisturizer. This sheer, silky SPF 30 moisturizer is clinically proven to offer breakout-free protection, mitigating the risks of PIH.
For those who love their lightweight skincare routines, the COOLA Anti-Aging Sun Silk Drops could be the SPF product of choice. These drops are so easy to apply and offer SPF 30 protection alongside skincare-forward ingredients.
Sunscreen and hyperpigmentation in a complete skincare routine
Anyone concerned about hyperpigmentation needs to implement SPF as part of their daily routine. If you already have topical treatments to help fade darker patches, you could be stopping them from working properly by repeatedly exposing the same areas to the sun.
Choose a skin-friendly, comfortable SPF to keep your skin protected and promote a more even tone.
Let SPF become a daily step, all year round. It’s not just for summer! The best SPF for hyperpigmentation works alongside existing skincare routines. Gentle cleansing and moisturizing should partner with your SPF products for all-around, holistic skincare.
Don’t worry about getting absolutely every step of your skincare regimen perfect. You might use more toner on some days or skip exfoliating every so often. Consistency is so much more important than perfection. As long as you’re managing to apply some sunscreen daily, you’re showing up for yourself and your skin’s health.
Frequently asked questions about sunscreen and hyperpigmentation
Does sunscreen fade hyperpigmentation or just prevent it?
Sunscreen primarily helps prevent hyperpigmentation from worsening or returning. While it doesn’t actively exfoliate or brighten skin, daily SPF supports the skin’s natural renewal process, helping maintain the visible results of tone-focused skincare routines.
How long does it take to see improvement in hyperpigmentation with sunscreen?
Preventing new discoloration starts immediately with consistent SPF use to minimize the impact of UV rays. Visible improvement in existing hyperpigmentation typically takes several weeks to months, depending on your skin type, level of sun exposure, and routine consistency.
Is SPF 30 enough for hyperpigmentation, or is SPF 50 better?
Both SPF 30 and SPF 50 offer broad-spectrum protection when applied correctly. SPF 50 may be preferred for prolonged outdoor exposure or highly sun-sensitive skin, while SPF 30 can work well for daily wear. Always remember to reapply as needed.
Can sunscreen make hyperpigmentation worse?
When properly formulated and used as directed, sunscreen does not worsen hyperpigmentation. In fact, skipping SPF or inconsistent use is far more likely to contribute to uneven-looking skin tone.
Should you wear sunscreen indoors if you have hyperpigmentation?
Yes, wear sunscreen indoors, as UV light can make its way into most buildings. If you’re exposed to daylight through windows or spend time near screens and natural light, daily SPF can help support skin prone to discoloration—especially as part of a consistent routine.
Why daily SPF is essential for managing hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation of all types can be influenced by sun exposure over time. That’s why sunscreen should be a foundational aspect of your skincare regimen, not an optional addition. The best sunscreen for hyperpigmentation is one you can wear all day.
COOLA SPF skincare is designed for daily use, comfort, and long-term skin support. Explore the range and discover simple ways to manage or prevent hyperpigmentation and protect your skin. Remember, consistency is more important than quantity! Make SPF a part of your regular routine for a glowing, even skin tone.
Sources:
- Harvard Health Publishing; Jennifer Fisher, MMSc, PA-C; Demystifying hyperpigmentation: Causes, types, and effective treatments. March 2024.https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/demystifying-hyperpigmentation-causes-types-and-effective-treatments
- PubMed Central; Indian Journal of Dermatology; S. Fatima et al; The Role of Sunscreen in Melasma and Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation; January 2020. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6986132/
Shop Our Featured Products
