SPF is a daily non-negotiable for us all, but my reason for slathering two fingers worth of protective sunscreen on my face is very much a personal one. Being of South Asian descent, I have a predisposition to hyperpigmentation due to the higher levels of melanin in my skin. It means that growing up, I was hyper aware of the confluence of deep and light patches on my skin, especially around my chin and upper lip. Then came the acne, which left me riddled with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation all over my cheeks. As a beauty junkie, I'd read enough articles early on to know that sunscreen would help to manage and prevent my spots and uneven skin tone from worsening. So, I've been diligent ever since. Luckily, the best sunscreens on the market mean you can now get targeted forms of protection for an extra layer of defence. Look to Keke Palmer's go-to for the proof: La Roche-Posay MelaB3 Anti-Dark Spots Corrective Moisturiser SPF30 Cream, which is now on sale for £25.60.
Speaking in Vogue's new In My Bag video, the actress and singer was caught clutching her La Roche Posay tube saying, 'Now I'm gonna start with one of my favourites. I always keep this on handy. My Mela B3 La Roche Posay SPF. You can't be caught dead without it. Hyperpigmentation, skincare, making sure that you're well, this is going to keep you right. So I've always had this on me.'
I can see why she's smitten. Part of La Roche-Posay's MelaB3 range, the sun protector comes equipped with the brand's multi-patented Melasyl™ active ingredient, which combats hyperpigmentation by intercepting excess melanin at various stage of its production before it leaves marks on the skin. So whether it is dark spots, post-acne marks, discolouration, sun spots or melasma, irregularities appear reduced. Proven to fight dark marks and pigmentation, the presence of 5% pure niacinamide helps bolster the efficacy of the formula further.
My honest thoughts on the La Roche-Posay MelaB3 SPF30 Moisturiser for Dark Spots
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'I am an SPF loyalist, once I find the one I rarely get an urge to switch things up and add something new to my routine. That said, I didn't have much of an issue slotting this one in. It is ultra-lightweight (to a point you may question its level of protection) and uber-comforting thanks to its non-sticky velvety texture. It also packs a healthy glow factor, which when combined with its texture, makes for a great make-up base. As for a difference in pigmentation, my acne scars definitely appear less aggressive and my overall skin tone is more even and balanced. It's a win, win for me.'
Shop: The La Roche-Posay MelaB3 SPF30 Moisturiser for Dark Spots
www.lookfantastic.com
What the brand says: 'MelaB3 SPF30 is the new corrective and protective care to target hyperpigmentation and correct the look of dark spots, powered by multi-patented Melasyl™ and 5% Niacinamide. Formulated with our new patented molecule Melasyl™ and Pure Niacinamide, our new range helps correct the look of even the most persistent dark spots. This cream is formulated with a SPF 30 protection to help prevent new dark spots from appearing.'
What we know: Loaded with multi-patented Melasyl™ and 5% pure niacinamide, this SPF30 moisturiser helps to target pigmentation, whether it's post-acne marks, sun spots or melasma, by intercepting excess melanin before it can get a scar.
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'I am an SPF loyalist, once I find the one I rarely get an urge to switch things up and add something new to my routine. That said, I didn't have much of an issue slotting this one in. It is ultra-lightweight (to a point you may question its level of protections) and uber-comforting thanks to its non-sticky velvety texture. It also packs a healthy glow factor, which when combined with its texture, makes for a great make-up base. As for a difference in pigmentation, my acne scars definitely appear less aggressive and my overall skin tone is more even and balanced. It's a win, win for me.'
Pros
- Lightweight, comforting texture
- Targetted formula
Cons
- Will need a period of patch testing due to the inclusion of actives
Sameeha Shaikh is Grazia's beauty writer, covering all categories to bring you insights on the latest trends, industry news and the products you need to know about, viral or not (most probably viral).