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I have melasma, a fairly common skin condition which mainly affecting women and sees brown pigment patches develop on the face. Although the cause isn't fully known, hormonal drugs such as the contraceptive pill, sun exposure and even some cosmetics can exacerbate the condition. I've had melsama since my early twenties but it's become darker and larger in my thirties. There are treatments that address the appearance of melsma and pigmentation (more about that soon) but having it has made me a stickler for decent facial sun protection. Here's a roundup of my current favourites:
1) SkinCeuticals: Sheer Mineral UV Defense SPF 50 £36.75
This is my current go to facial SPF. It's all mineral, broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. This is a lightweight liquid that absorbs really easily and doesn't leave a shiny slick on the face (really important if you are using before make up - your foundation won't slide right off). I use quite a thick layer and it does leave a slightly white cast on my skin but my foundation soon covers it up. I use a heavy foundation to cover up my pigmentation so the white doesn't show through.
2) AlumierMD: Clear shield broad spectrum SPF 42 £TBC
I was given this product to trial by Alumier to review if as a potential product to sell in a clinic I work for. I hav
e mixed feedback, it's quite a thick viscous product but it does absorb quickly. It has a slight luminescence so my skin does look smoother when wearing it. However, it' does leave a slightly oily, shiny residue on the skin which means my foundation has less staying power. If you have good skin and like a dewy luminous look with lighter coverage then it's ideal for you.
3) Clinique: Super City Block SPF 40 £18.50
An old stalwart and personal favourite, a luscious texture which absorbs fast, leaves a really smooth base of make up and seems to help make up longevity. I love this and I find the slight tint gives a great base layer for foundation (and would be light coverage for those who don’t like foundation) BUT I do have friends who find it sensitises their skin.
4 ) Zelens: Daily Defence Sunscreen SPF 30 £55.00
A factor 30 so will use this if i'm not outside too much, just hopping to work and back. Gorgeous texture and scent, it feels like a treatment cream rather than a sunscreen. Also has antioxidant vitamin c to help free radicals and brighten skin (but is ok for vitamin C sensitive skin)
5) Kiehl’s: Super Multi-Corrective Cream SPF 30 £49.50
A multi tasker, this sunscreen, although only a factor 30, feels more like a skincare care treatment. Used after moisturiser it feels as though it tightens the skin giving a noticeable pre-make lift. Again, one for days when you aren’t outside much as it’s only a factor 30.