Can I still tan my body if I have facial melasma? Can I still tan my legs without it affecting the melasma on my face?

Question

Just wondering if I cover my face with zinc and put a hat on, can I still tan my legs without it affecting the melasma on my face?

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Celebrated.  Generally speaking, we advise our Melasma patients to avoid the sun at all cost.  Even if you are not getting direct sunlight (hat/zinc oxide), indirect sunlight, especially during summer, can cause the condition to worsen.  If you were only getting sun on the other areas of the body, it would not affect your Melasma.  Best of luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Melasma needs a combination approach to get the best improvement and will need a series of treatments. In our practice, we combine Clear + brilliant, peels, microneedling(/RF)/PRP, aerolase, and sometimes erbium laser (coollaser) to get the best results. We also offer great skincare (reveskin retinol, vivatia) and peels you can do at home and complimentary skincare consultations. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

No, as the action spectrum of melasma extends to the visible and IR spectrum. Sunscreens will not protect against that range.Melasma can not be completely cured, however effective treatment are possible. Melasma patients have skin that is very sensitive to UV light. Even the smallest amount can stimulate your pigment cells to produce colour. The mainstay of treatment is strict UV protection- hats, sunglasses and SPF every 4 hours. 
I prefer to use a combination of creams and laser for melasma. My most frequently prescribed topicals include hydroquinone, along with vitamin A creams and botanical extracts. The exact percentages will depend on your skin sensitivity, clinical presentation and your current skin care routine. 
I usually start my patients on a series of lasers (low dose Q switch or Picosure), along with medical therapy. Another laser I use is the Clear and Brilliant in the Permea setting. In some cases I combine glycolic AHAs, TCA low strength single coat peels, and in other cases I use a tablet called Tranexamic acid to help modulate the blood vessels that are associated with melanocytes (pigment cells). Melasma treatments should be tailored to each patient. 
All the best, Dr Davin Lim. Laser, surgical and aesthetic dermatologist. Brisbane, Australia. Cutis International

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

Tanning your body will have no affect on the melasma on your face. Of course, you need to frequently reapply sunblock to your face or it will get tanned.i strongly recommend the Picosure laser for melasma treatment. you should plan 3 sessions, each spaced a month apart. it does not cause redness or peeling. You do need to be patient before you can expect to see a difference.david berman md

Can I still tan my body if I have facial melasma? Can I still tan my legs without it affecting the melasma on my face?

Answers (4)

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