Allergic Reaction to Sunscreen

Many people out there fall prey to an allergic reaction to sunscreen, which is the most vital product that everyone must possess. Here you'll find out about why this happens, and what chemicals to stay clear from...

No one should be caught outside in the sun without sunscreen first applied on their skin even if they get allergic reaction to sunscreen. Those having darker skin tones can use SPFs (Sun Protection Factor) as low as 15, but those with lighter skin tones, should use sunscreen with a higher SPF, since their skin is more susceptible to absorbing more of the sun's rays. You can look up on SPF sunscreen meaning, to get a better idea. An oil free sunscreen is a good option to go with. When the weather isn't agreeable, like say on a hot, sticky day, the last thing you need is an oily face, dripping with sunscreen. Use one that is easily absorbed by the skin. Trust me, you'll notice how easier it is to even to put on make up, without having to mess it up if sunscreen is oil based.

Sunscreens come under two umbrella terms namely - physical blockers and chemical absorbers. Physical blockers deflect UV radiation and reflect it, spreading that energy into the opening surroundings. Chemical absorbers on the other hand, absorb UV radiation, and merges that energy into the sunscreen molecule structure, increasing the energy state of the molecule itself. This converts harmful UV energy, into wavelengths that aren't threatening to one's skin. Although yes it is important to get your stock of vitamin D from sun exposure, you mustn't make it a habit to stay longer than 15 minutes in the sun without sunscreen. In fact, 15 minutes in the sun would give you enough of vitamin D, to sustain within yourself. Here we'll discuss about how an allergic reaction to sunscreen takes place and why, and ways you can avoid this by being purchase smart when it comes to buying that batch of sunscreen for skin care.

Sunscreen Allergy and Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is an allergy mostly caused when one has an allergic reaction to cosmetics/foreign allergens. When there is allergic reaction due to a combination of sunscreen and exposure to UV radiation, this is known as photo-contact dermatitis. Wherever sunlight hits a person's body, that area is affected by the UV rays emitted by the sun. Areas that are highly prone to a photo-contact dermatitis situation are, the lower neck, face, forearms, upper chest area and the back of the hands. Allergic reactions can show signs on the person's skin, either on the first application of the sunscreen, or even days/years later from constant use. Certain chemicals, fragrances or preservatives present in the structure of the sunscreen, could cause an allergic reaction to those who are highly sensitive to these. Here's how you can identify if you're experiencing an allergic reactions to allergens in the sunscreen.

Blisters, with fluid

Swelling

Itching

Reddened skin

Those Highly at Risk in Getting Allergies

If sunscreen is applied to damage skin, you are likely to witness a reaction.

Due to the increase of cosmetics containing sunscreen, females are more prone to getting allergic reactions to it.

Those who work outdoors in the sun.

Those who have atopic dermatitis.

Those with chronic skin problems that could trigger a reaction.

Babies shouldn't be exposed to the sunlight, due to their immature skin. Apply a natural baby sunscreen only, that has no chemical based ingredients in them.

The best thing to do about allergic reactions to is to use a zinc oxide sunblock coupled with powdered titanium dioxide, which doesn't penetrate the skin layer, but reflects light. These don't cause allergic reactions when used. You can understand this better, by reading through sunblock vs sunscreen. You could also visit a dermatologist and ask him/her which sunscreen would suit you best and what to avoid in terms of chemicals.

Chemicals to Watch Out for

For those of you who are allergic to sunscreen, there are certain chemicals that you need to check the back of the product for when it comes to both cosmetics and sunscreens. These are more likely to give you an allergic reaction to sunscreen, so keep a look out for these sunscreen ingredients.

Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA)

Due to its many side effects, it is hardly ever used in sunscreens, and can stain clothing as well as cause contact dermatitis. Other names this chemical falls under.

Padimate A and O

Products labeled as hypo-allergenic (doesn't contain PABA, but can cause contact dermatitis)

Benzophenones

For over 50 years this has been incorporated in sunscreens and is the number one chemical to have caused an allergic reactions, leading to contact dermatitis. Other names this chemical falls under.

Uvinal M40

Chemicals ending with -benzophenone

Diphenylketone

Eusolex 4360

Oxybenzone

Methanone

Salicylates

Although this is a rare chemical to cause contact dermatitis, it is still a chemical that is likely to cause a reaction in some cases. Benzyl salicylate, was the most commonly used chemical name, when it first came around. Other names this chemical falls under.

Homosalate

Chemicals ending with salicylate

Octyl salicylate

Cinnamates

Commonly used to flavor and add a pleasing scent to toothpastes and perfumes, this chemical is also found in some sunscreens. Other names this chemical falls under.

Chemicals ending with cinnamate

Cinnamic acid

Balsam of Peru

Cinnamon oils

Parsol MCX

Aldehyde

Other chemicals to check the ingredients of a product for are dibenzoylmethanes (eusolex 8020 and avobenzone), and a new ingredient in the market used in sunscreens that can cause contact dermatitis - Octocrylene.

So remember to put on that sunscreen or sunblock, depending on which one agrees with your type of skin. To avoid an allergic reaction to sunscreen, make it a habit to also wear sun protective clothing before you step out of your home. Have a sunshiny day!