Dermatologist's Morning Skincare Routine for Melasma & Hyperpigmentation! | Dr. Sam Ellis

This video contains a partnership with ISDIN. Shop the sunscreens I mention in this video: myshlf.us/p-501582
As a dermatologist, I know melasma, or hyperpigmentation in general, is a really tricky skin condition to treat. And it's something I've been dealing with throughout my pregnancy and while breastfeeding. So in this morning skincare routine, I share the skincare products I've been using to help treat my melasma from ISDIN, NATURIUM, Aveeno, Maelove, and more.
More melasma and hyperpigmentation videos:
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Blue light and your skin: • Do You Need to Worry A...
SHOP:
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF 50+*: myshlf.us/p-501582
ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Emulsion Broad Spectrum SPF 50+*: myshlf.us/p-501584
Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Cleanser*: myshlf.us/p-500388
Maelove the Glow Maker Serum*: myshlf.us/p-500389
Replenix Age Restore Brightening Moisturizer*: myshlf.us/p-500391
Meladerm Pigment Correction*: bit.ly/3bh9BRk
NATURIUM Tranexamic Topical Acid 5% (Use "DRELLIS15" for 15% off!)*: shrsl.com/3kvx4
CONNECT WITH ME:
Instagram: / drsamanthaellis
Website: www.mybeautymd.com/
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Intro
00:48 About Melasma
01:51 Cleanser
03:00 Melasma Treatment
03:44 Vitamin C Serum
04:36 Tranexamic Acid Serum
05:48 Azelaic Acid Prescription
07:08 Meladerm
07:53 Moisturizer
09:12 Sunscreen
12:18 Subscribe!
DISCLAIMER: The information in this video is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician. Some of the links in this description may be affiliate links (marked with *). I'm on the advisory board for NATURIUM. Affiliate links help support my KZbin channel so I can continue to create fun, informational skincare videos for you. Also, some products may have been received as PR. Thanks for watching!

[@rhondamullins6192]

This was a much appreciated video! I love seeing products I haven't heard of before. Thank you!

[@Taylor-cn8zp]

I’d love to see a video explaining the best in office facial procedures. Fraxel, micro needling, clear & brilliant etc

[@donnaschley1723]

Dr. Sam!!! Thank you so much for this melasma routine! Growing up on Long Island & living in California for 10 years, melasma appeared around 20 yrs ago! NOTHING REALLY WORKED! Saw this video purchased the products & already seeing results!!! Didnt realize until skin started clearing up how much melasma was actually on my face!!! I HAD a melasma mustache & beard!!!🤣🤣🤣Thanks again will continue to take your advice!!!!!

[@texassews535]

I learned several things, including about several products. The most important thing I learned was to layer the products sparingly. I haven’t been and I am getting pilling. Thank you for that. Great video.

[@sailorgrlie]

I've been using the Glow Maker for a couple of years and I love it! The Timeless one broke me out horribly, but this one never has.

[@Fortunekuke13]

Thank you for this easy to follow regimen. Can you show your evening routine?

[@kristinprewitt7297]

I've had a lot of luck lately with Faded by Topicals, Neostrata Enlighten vitamin C serum, Neostrata brightening Cleanser, and Heliocare orally. This video is so informational! Thank you so much!

[@barbaraskoczylas9986]

Dr. Elllis, would you mind doing video on evening Malasma routine. Thank you for all your help, you are the best🥰

[@infinitigirl29]

I ordered the ISDIn sunscreen, I can't wait to try it.

[@jenifermac-5150]

Exactly what I wanted to know about! Good video! Thanks!

[@jazlynmcneal]

The tinted ISDIN sunscreen is my jam, the absolute best!!!

[@christinemack2153]

Your content and delivery is the best! Have a great week!

[@gabrielacortez4893]

Please do a night time skincare routine for melasma. Thank you.

[@magpiesneedle2575]

There is a nighttime routine, 10 months ago. Check her video list.

[@gabrielacortez4893]

@@magpiesneedle2575 thank you! I will look for that ☺️

[@mariaespinoza-bn3zc]

I’m 55 y/o and recently started a skincare regimen 🤦🏻‍♀️I also have melasma. All the orders of skincare application include a toner. Do I need one if I’m following the AM melasma routine

[@stephanieosenkowski7751]

I mix the ISDIN tinted and non-tinted versions to get the right shade for me, as alone it is too warm-- or orange for me, but mixing the two works great. Also I have tried the Naturium Tranexamic Acid, but it burned my face; however, I have it added into my prescription from the Agency and have no issues with it.

[@alinachira5658]

Very useful video! Thank you, Dr. Ellis! Could you please make a video about milia around the eyes? Thank you!🌷

[@bluejay9241]

I really want ISDIN to come out with a fragrance-free version of their untinted mineral SPF!!!

[@reneklein6049]

The Maelove Glow Maker is great, but I'm partial to the Timeless Vitamin C with ferulic acid. I have some stubborn melasma, and have even tried the Cyspera with zero luck. Done laser treatments, but the dark spots always come back. Unfortunately, I'm allergic to hydroquinone. I've been using Retin-A since my 20s (not during pregnancy or nursing), and I'm 63. A great product for preventing wrinkles. I never go a day without sunscreen. Thanks, Dr. Sam.

[@mollynavarro4101]

Dr Ellis can you please do a video on growth factors. What is it and is it beneficial? Should I include this into my skincare regimen? ❤️

[@charlottewoodson5621]

Thank you Dr. Sam!!! I started using your morning skincare routine for hyper-pigmentation and my skin is starting to show signs of improvement!!!!! Please demo a night time routine for melasma. Thank you!!!

[@donnaschley1723]

Me too!!!

[@manpreetkaurbaidwan9121]

How much tym it took ?

[@munachanne]

I have six years left and I still haven't left

[@princessona85]

Love these videos. I appreciate seeing how you later the products and which products you use. Do you use the same products at night? Excluding the sunscreen.

[@francesca4569]

Hi Dr Ellis! Very interesting video! I would like to know: should I avoid using AHA in my routine if I already use Tranexamic acid, Azelaic acid and Retinoids? Should I use AHA maybe once a week or less? Thank you so much!

[@ee-linyong6732]

Glad i found your channel. Very informative indeed. Greetings from. Malaysia.

[@blr398]

Love this routine! Makes me wonder what you’re using at night, since some of these I use at night? 🤔 Is this morning routine used daily?

[@RockeyToes]

I love the Transamic acid serum! Effective and so affordable! One product I never hear anything about is the PHA 12% serum, it's such a gentle and effective exfoliator. They've been out of stock for weeks, I hope it isn't being discontinued!

[@michy2630]

Loved this Dr Sam. I have started treating my sun spots a year ago. I told you about the Pico laser, which was great. How often do you do this routine with all these products? I know with HP it needs to be daily but just checking if you do this every morning. Thank you! Have fun with pickleball this summer :))

[@anaaktra1584]

I have been using ISDIN for 10 years and i don’t think I’ll ever change it. It is a wonderful sunscreen 😊

[@deniselawrence8758]

What skin type do you have? I am over 50 with combo.Wanting to try it!

[@jadormycc8819]

How is this sunscreen better than other sunscreen other than the anti aging affect? I recently use it and don’t think it looks good on the skin compare to my other sunblock. Also I apply it to my body and feel like the sunscreen just sit on my skin and transfer to everything I touch.

[@kellyc3897]

Loved this video, Dr. Ellis! Faded by Topicals is another great hyperpigmentation fighting formula that has a ton of actives and can be layered nicely after Vitamin C.

[@Goat.Cheese]

I didnt know Faded could be use with vitamin C! What a gold mine! I'm definitely going to try it

[@kellyc3897]

@@Goat.Cheese Hey Emily, yes, it works really well 😊

[@danielavecchia14]

Thank you. Watching you here in Brazil.

[@michellehsieh9135]

thanks for the video, can you do a video for Melasma night skincare routine? what is your opinion to add the Retinol? Thank you

[@truthseeker7707]

I just loved your routine! Your new subscriber :)

[@CL-tk7nl]

So many layers of different products!

[@jenniferfisher1743]

Would you please do a video talking about what type of in office treatment/procedures that a dermatologist might recommend for malasma? What the potential down time might be and range of cost. I would hate to waist mine and Doc’s time if the procedures are more invasive than I would like or to cost prohibitive. Thanks for your help!

[@slhilliard]

Thanks so much for your content!

[@balto1217]

Thank you so much for doing these! ❤️🇨🇦

[@susanmcf1]

Thank you! I've found that my sun damaged skin has responded well to EltaMD UV Clear sunscreen.

[@ShannOliver]

LOVE this sunscreen

[@skinloverbyvane]

Great routine 👌🏼 Isdin is a great Spanish brand and is really popular in many Latin countries my favorite is spot prevent super high UVA and great for people that suffer Melasma

[@cf3779]

please include a night time facial routine with someone on nightly melasma cream treatment

[@michy2630]

I forgot to add that I only use Fade Bright from Platinum skin care, I use their Vit C too. I like these products a lot. I like that you used several products. I need a few more to tackle my sun spots

[@umb819]

Best video I watched will follow it

[@hediyeh7853]

I love your skincare videos❤️ I also have a question Can a 17 year old girl use hydrating eyecream in order to prevent wrinkles and to just moistrize the skin around her eyes? Or is it too early for her? If she can , can you please recommend a good hydrating eyecream suitable for her age , that won't cause her milia cus she has oily and acne prone skin. I would also be happy to know your opinion on simple , Neutrogena and isana hydrating eyecreames 🙏🌻

[@Truffoire]

Thank you for this. Can make a video sharing peptide serums at different price points so that we can all include it in our routines? Thanks in advance

[@wrv6927]

Hi doc, thank you for your videos. I would like to ask, have you heard about FADE? It is a serum that has tranexamic acid, melatonin, niacinamide and licorice root; my question is, could this be used in the morning like the Naturium serum you are using in this video? Thank you so much.

[@kittmarie8285]

Thank you so much! That was great information. 😆

[@lisandrapagan5494]

Am starting this routine and hope it works....to be continued😊😊

[@ellafarricielli1591]

Isdin sunscreen is great! I love Skinceuticals discoloration defense which has many ingredients you mentioned and Metacell renewal B3 with niacinamide, which I use as a moisturizer. My pretty severe melisma is definitely getting better. Plus VI peel when I have time.

[@frankie9953]

Skincuticals dd is a waste in my opinion. You can get other products with the same ingredients for way less. 3% tranexamic acid 1% kojic acid, 5% niacinamide

[@SaidaBragagnolo]

Have you heard about Cosmelan Peel? this is waaay better than VI peel.

[@jessicabee4032]

Can you do your night routine for melasma? Since it’s a lot of serums for day time what’s the night routine please ❤️

[@jovycamero5593]

That great Doc. I will try it

[@alyssachapoy8680]

I just found your channel and I love it! I have Melasma and I have a ton of serums and just put them all on 😂

[@MartiA0818]

Love your videos! I have a list of your recommendations and it keeps getting longer 😆😬 definitely want to try the summer Fridays tinted sunscreen, saw that on instagram, and the sunscreen in this video!! I love everything I’ve bought that you recommended 👌🏼

[@stacystrickland657]

I don't have melasma, but I also use isdin sunscreen for previous sun damage from my youth & current. It's the best!! I use their sulfate-free hand wash / body wash. I love aveeno calm & restore face wash & their serum. The only complaint I have is the dropper is absolutely horrible!!!! I love the fact that it's unscented! My skin doesn't react to a very light scent & neither does my nose.

[@titalondonmrsbillskitchen1672]

Valuable advice Thnks so much!

[@wrv6927]

Thank you for this video. I would like to know what are your thoughts about Faded?

[@companyconfidential6624]

Just sitting here admiring your jaw line and buccal areas. Great tutorial.

[@galato4234]

Thank you for this routine. Do you think that Skinceuticals Fusion containing 5% zinc and 5% titanium is enough blockers to protect us from the sun? Please tell us if we need to be aware of the percentage of zinc. Thank you.

[@tracybaker1062]

What brand and color nail polish are you wearing in this video? Very informative video.

[@-Raquel-]

Thanks a lot for the video. Super interesting. I use 50 SFP spray. Is that as effective as the fluid you used on the video? I have that doubt😃🍉. Thanks again! 💕

[@gamini2525]

Thank you for all the information. Can sensitive skin people use these products?

[@anthonymerc220]

Hello can you do a video specifically for sunscreen which is best for Milia prone skin?

[@cecilewalser613]

Thanks for your video! What do you recommend for hyperpigmentation of the hands?

[@jenhenry123]

Will you please do a similar video but for those of us on a budget?

[@banchiymenubelay]

Thank you so much !!

[@Beth-wx4ct]

Thank you!

[@hollyc3838]

Have you tried Maelove's Fade Away to treat melasma? I would love to see a video on this. Thanks.

[@franameri6590]

Great video, Dr. Ellis. However, many of your products are quite expensive, especially using long term. Do you have any alternative products that are more affordable but still efficacious? Thanks so much!!

[@DrSamEllis]

I’d follow along on my Instagram since I’m always giving product recs there!

[@lucyhuron8771]

Is it safe to mix an SPF tinted moisturizer into my sunscreen to make my own tinted sunscreen?

[@bindup.g4831]

Thank you very much for this video. I have a question, if my pigmentation is around my eyes how do I go ahead with the skin care regime? Can I apply these products that you have described around my eyes?

[@dianemarshall7482]

Great video. Thank you. Should Meladerm be used only on hyperpigmented area, or is it safe to use all over as a brightening treatment?

[@adriennecoleman5249]

I have the same question

[@ankumagotra4445]

Thank you for explaining about hydroquinone, because I was wondering why did my dermatologist only prescribe Azellaic Acid for hyperpigmentation.

[@katiacb]

Hey, Dr. Sam. What about the vit C bottle? Isn't best to only get the sealed pumps to protect the unstable L-Ascorbic?

[@udonloews1301]

Dr. Ellis provides great info. !👍

[@kendallstark4302]

I never tire of these routine videos! Morning or night, love 'em. I'm going back to the States tomorrow and I'll definitely be buying that Aveeno oat cleanser! As for brightening products, I adore the SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF. I don't have a ton of dark spots, but since incorporating that serum my post-acne marks are less noticeable 💖

[@DrSamEllis]

Love that serum too!!

[@cbond2229]

I have also been hearing about good things about tumeric oil as a non-prescription product for dark spots. Any comments or suggestions? I just stopped using hydroquinone and just want a simple one "serum/cream" item to use every night. What is your "must have item" besides sunscreen. I already use a koji cleanser, tinted sunscreen, heliocare, and other sunscreens.

[@luciagonzalez7398]

Hi , love your routine , but ? . The Meladerm can be used right after I layer the azelaic acid or just at night ?

[@juliapinchez5310]

Thank you!!!!! What about at night time.

[@fozziebear213]

Thank you for all your great videos. I also enjoy using Isdin sunscreen and Maelove. I’ll have to check out the others. I was told to put creams on with a swiping or swiping upward motion and a circular motion is for cleansing. Does that matter? I see you put lotions on in a circular motion. Thanks!

[@DrSamEllis]

Doesn’t matter! You can apply however you like!

[@ShannOliver]

So, I started doing this routine when this video came out (well, it took about 4 days for Naturium delivery etc, but close). I’ve been using the Skinceuticals VitC, Naturium, and Meladerm (followed by Elta shield sunscreen) religiously for about two months every morning. My melasma is almost completely gone. It was actually a great reminder that skincare takes patience, because for several weeks there was zero change. Then one day it began to exponentially improve. Thank you!!!! I wonder if I should continue Naturium/Meladerm now that it’s gone…?

[@bogainvillea3617]

Shall we use vit c and azelaic acid and tranexemic oint one by one in the same time?or apply with separate?

[@ruchaneeverano6338]

7

[@franciatop7763]

Hi Dr. Sam🖐 I've been using Lancome beauty products and I feel it didn't works on my melasma.. well I will try your products that you're promoting. How much is the full one set ?😊

[@lovely3873]

Hi, thanks for sharing your morning skin care routine. If you wont mind, please share also your nightime routine. And what kind of naturium product do you use?

[@theresac8454]

Aw🥰♥️! Thanks a lot !!! I just subscribed! February 25,2023🥰

[@robertmark2097]

search Doctor Iyhere on KZbin, he has the herbal cure for black Spots............... .....

[@fatimaganchi2814]

Good information thank you. Music is annoying considering the amount of valuable information in the video.

[@millytorres9777]

Thank you ! Great 👍

[@paolavega1803]

Which dosage of Tetranexamic acid can we use to treat patients with melasma that is safe in the general practice clinic? For how long can people apply safely Hidroquinone?

[@VadyeQ7]

Thank you doc! :) all amazing products. Replenix Moisturizer looks so good def gonna try it. I tried the aveeno cleanser and maelove vitamin c serum, I loved the cleanser and serum is decent (as with all water based L-Ascorbic acid vitamin c serums, they smell bad, sting a bit and go bad pretty quickly) but results were good. Products in my routine at the moment: Cetaphil gentle cleanser (Affordable, Effective) Prescription tretinoin cream Drunk Elephant TLC framboos serum (chemical exfoliant, best I've tried imo) Cerave Moisturising lotion (Affordable, Light yet hydrating, full of ceramides) Ardent Berry Molecular active vitamin c serum (its from a small brand, really expensive but lasts a long time, results are amazing, made such a difference with my melasma. its water-free which makes it a bit oily but stable) Clinique CityBlock SPF 50 (Mix of Chemical and mineral sunscreens, has a peachy tint, layers well, doesn't burn my eyes)

[@bonesgooo2249]

How long does the Azelaic Acid takes. I have been using the 15% twice a day and don’t see any improvement on my face. In addition I use Retain A at night and of course my Vitamin C by Timeless which is 20% vitamins + E Ferulic Acid Serum. I also use the 10% Niacinamide by Inkey List. I am waiting for a break through to have even tone skin. Finally, I never forget to use my sunscreen although I am still waiting to find one I love.

[@ceciliacooper1462]

Thank you Dr. Ellis! Great video. I’m a sufferer of the Melasma mustache 😩 I apply an additional tinted sunscreen on that area and it has helped. Would love to see your PM Melasma routine. Are glycolic or Lactic Acid incorporated? Thanks again for all the information!

[@DrSamEllis]

Ah the mustache! So stubborn and frustrating. Many of these can be used twice a day (the tranexamic acid and azelaic acid, for example). In the evening I absolutely will incorporate a topical retinoid (tretinoin for me) and when not breastfeeding, I also use hydroquinone.

[@sandraclaramount7081]

My skin is dotted with tiny white stains, mor on arma and legs. I live in tropical sunny City in Central América. Frequent pool or beach. Thank you for your help. 🌈🌷

[@lizbeth.c6734]

Is there more afforable options for the expensive products

[@manelsc2715]

Hi. Do I have to use Nuturium and Meladerm or can I use either one of them? Thank u!

[@SweeetClarissa]

Hi Dr! Thank you for this video. I’ve been an aesthetician for 20 years and been using Isdin SPF for 6 years, and I add another layer of tinted spf on top during summer time. Xoxo

[@stefinitelysomething]

Tinted on top of not tinted?

[@MulitSeeker]

Went to an estitcan who told after using some type of machine said my skin was congested of course it is because I have melasma. I guess I'll try some these products.

[@staceybextel4564]

Dr Ellis. I really loved this video and like that many of the recommendations are affordable. What is the powerhouse product of this video? If you can only add one product to your routine which product would you recommend trying first? Ps already use a sunscreen of course 😁

[@DrSamEllis]

Ooh I think the Meladerm! (If we’re talking non-prescription treatments)

[@staceybextel4564]

@@DrSamEllis thanks !!!!

[@giovannagarcia3464]

Thanks for the rects! Dr. Ellis can I use the Maelove the Glow Maker Serum during pregnancy?

[@DrSamEllis]

Totally :)

[@ivelissemartinez-rivera3714]

loved the video! can I combine the routine with oral tranexamic acid?

[@elizabethwilk9615]

My problem is rosecea in the summer and hyperpigmentation so some of the products I use for one or the other make the situation worse 🙄

[@solenavarro7780]

Hi, thank you for your advise. It is soo important to have experts advicing on every field in life!. I have very textured (I have dark overgrouths on my face, scalp and around my body) dark, hyperpigmented, course, big pored skin (I'm Spanish, 55 and never protected against sun) but though I have dry skin, I always get millia - I used to suffer a lot of acne when young. I thought that melasma treatment might help, but find that you use far to many layers... Each of my pores will have a brunch with sooo many lovely creams... I need a daily, super light moisturiser lotion and sunscreen... And a night moisturiser lotion too.. Very light and fluid... What would you recommend?. I was also just about to start with a niacinamide serum in the morning and a vitamin c in the evening (so that they don't interfere with each otrer). Would that be a good plan?. Thank you for your support. I use light scrub in the shower and find it very smoothing and not abrasive at all!. But I don't rub very harshly... Just to help smoothen all the bummps on my skin... I leave you now. You do such a great job!. Bless you!.

[@ravreet6997]

Suffering melasma for more than a decade.. and now in peAce with it

[@cassiecandle5950]

Are alpha Arbutin, Kojic acid and licorice root and tyrosinase inhibitors safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

[@SG-wq4rm]

Question for you.... If I put sunblock on my face and then I try to cover it with corrector & concealer, do you think my skin is still protected? I do wear big brim hat as well

[@riaxhigne7645]

What is good product to brighten up my melasma? Can u recommend me any products that available over the counter. I hope not expensive😊thank u so much. Im here in Belgium.

[@Priya05351]

Dr, Plz do Night care for hyperpigmentation

[@ushamohan3946]

Does the isdin sunscreen you used give a dewy finish

[@dianemarshall7482]

When in the routine would you use Meladerm?