So You Think You’re Allergic to Sunscreen?
It has happened countless of times. In going over a new client’s in-take form, I will notice they are not using any sun protection. Before I even ask, I already know the answer:
“I see you don’t wear any sunscreen, how come?”
“I’m allergic and my skin doesn’t react well with sunscreens. I just cannot wear them.”
However, I don’t worry for long because all it takes is a little education before I have them back on track with their sun protection.
I’m not denying that people have reactions to certain sunscreens on the market, but the key is not to shy away from an SPF altogether. It’s simply a matter of ruling out the culprit and finding the right product for you!
What causes allergic reactions in sun products?
Well, there are a few ingredients to consider:
- PABA (or Para-amino benzoic acid) is one of the main culprits. Make sure when purchasing your SPF, that it is PABA free.
- If you are allergic to aspirin, be sure to stay away from Octyl salicylate, phenyl salicylate, and Salicylic Acid (an ingredient often used frequently for treating acne and clogged pores.)
- Methoxycinnimate and benzophenone were both very popular ingredients for broad spectrum protection a few years back. Even though they seem to work pretty well with most skin types, they have been known to cause some allergic reactions.
- The two LEAST allergy-prone ingredients (and some of the most effective organic UVA blocks) are Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. You’ll find these ingredients in many of your mineral powdered sunblocks.
What if you’re active outdoors (a runner for example) and want to avoid getting sunscreen in your eyes so it doensn’t burn?
- Although applying sunscreen around the eyes is important (because it’s the thinnest skin on the face and the most susceptible to sun damage), be careful to not get it directly on the eye lids or eyelashes. The eyelashes can act as a vehicle into your eyes, and can make your SPF and eyecreams to itch and burn.
- A phenomenal sunblock that is specifically designed for the protection of outdoor activities is Natura Bisse’s Sun Defense Sport SPF 30+
- Do not apply sunscreens on hot skin. In other words, don’t wait until you’re outside to apply your sun protection. Elevated skin temperature increases the chances of a product irritating the skin.
- Apply your sunscreen 30 minutes before going out. This will allow the product to absorb better into the skin and will decrease the chances of it running into your eyes.
And for you oily people with clogged skin, there are a lot of alternatives for lighter/oil-free products (including the mineral powder sunscreens listed below.) Except for the minerals, you should know, that oil free consistencies are not typically water resistant, and require you to reapply more often.
For allergic/sensitive skin types, mineral powder sunblocks are also a wonderful alternative.
Try the following:
Remember, sun protection is not just about preventing sun damage or hyperpigmentation, but most importantly about preserving our skin’s health!
Let’s talk about your sunscreen concerns! Post a comment to let us know.
Until next time,
The Derma Divas.
September 2nd, 2008 at 5:16 pm
I went to my derm after many terrible breakouts while using so called mild/sensitive skin/ for face sunscreen (Neutrogena ultra sheer). I could not clear up my skin and could not stop using sunscreen so I went to the doctor. She prescribed benzaclin to clear my pores and colorescience mineral sunscreen. Well, I first used the benzaclin to clear my skin for a week with no colorescience. My skin cleared quickly. Then I began to use the colorescience mineral sunscreen and within two days my face started to break out again. I have read that this products two ingredients are highly unlikely to cause an allergic reaction but I think I have one. What to do???
September 5th, 2008 at 9:21 am
Hi Debbie!
We are so sorry you’re having so much trouble finding a sunscreen! Without having you in front of us to analyze your skin, it’s hard to say what’s going on.
It is SO frustrating and unfortunately sometimes in skin care given certain situations, you have to be a skin sleuth to figure out what’s going on.
Because there are so many things to consider as far as your skin type is concerned (more than oily vs. dry, etc.), we would highly recommend getting the book: “The Skin Type Solution”.
Here is the link: http://www.amazon.com/Skin-Type-Solution-Revolutionary-Guide/dp/B001CB2A1S/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1220634552&sr=1-1
Not only will you have a MUCH better idea of your skin, but Dr. Baumann gives actual lists of ingredients in sunscreens and in other products you should be avoiding.
This is the next best thing to having us actually look at your skin.
Please let us know how it works for you and if it resolves your sunscreen dilemma!
To your skin’s health!
The Derma Divas