Sunscreen and Hyperpigmentation
The key to successful treatment of melasma reaches beyond lightening agents to include strict compliance with adequate sun protection. Without that, your treatment will fail.

Sun Exposure
Q: When do I need to protect myself from sun exposure?
A: The answer in short - always. Sun protection is important all year round, and not just when you are outdoors. The sun's damaging ultra violet (UV) rays can reach through the windshield of your car or through your office window to exert negative influences on hyperpigmentation. The suns UV rays can also reach you on cloudy and hazy days.

UV Rays
Q: What are ultraviolet rays?
A: There are two major types of UV rays: ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB). UVA is the most abundant source of solar radiation. UVA rays are considered long-wave solar rays and although they are less likely to produce sunburn, they are believed to be the main cause of wrinkling and photoaging.

UVB rays are considered short-wave solar rays and although they are less abundant than UVA, they are more potent and considered the primary cause of basal and squamous cell carcinoma (Skin Cancer Foundation).

Q: What can I do to protect myself?
A: If you can't avoid outdoor activities between the hours of 10am and 4pm, be sure to wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt and long pants.

Always wear a broad-spectrum (protects against UVA and UVB rays) sunscreen with an SPF 30. Reapply sunscreen every 1 ½ to 2 hours or as directed by the sunscreen manufacturer. Do not use sunscreen past the expiration date.

Q: Does it matter what kind of sunscreen I use?
A: According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, an SPF 30 may be advisable for sun sensitive individuals. Patients with melasma could fall within this classification. Broad-spectrum protection refers to a sunscreen product that protects against UVA as well as UVB. If products contain avobenzone, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide, they should be effective against the entire UVA spectrum (Skin Cancer Foundation).

Q: How often should I reapply my sunscreen?
A: You should follow the manufacturer's directions regarding reapplication, however, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) as a general rule sunscreen should be reapplied every 1 ½ to 2 hours (CDC).

Q: Can the sunscreen in my cosmetic products offer enough protection?
A: Some cosmetic products contain the same protective chemicals used by sunscreens on the market. You must be aware that not all products meet the requirements of SPF 15 and may not offer enough protection on their own.

EpiQuin Micro should be tested for skin sensitivity prior to use. Excessive inflammatory responses are contraindications to further use, while minor redness is not. Hydroquinone may produce unwanted effects if not used as directed. The safety of topical hydroquinone use during pregnancy has not been established.

View full prescribing information. (PDF)

The product information provided in this site is intended only for residents of the United States.