When going out in the sun, we’re often advised to wear sunscreen. Sun protection is essential for the prevention of skin cancers, sunburn, and premature aging. Chemical sunscreens, however, can have side effects and pose risks because of certain medicines used in them, like tetracyclines, sulfa drugs, phenothiazines, etc. Continue reading for the side effects of sunscreen.
How to Use Sunscreen
- Apply the sunscreen across the skin that is exposed.
- This you have to do 30 minutes before you go out in the sun.
- The sunscreen should be reapplied after swimming, sweating, etc.
- While inside, reapply the sunscreen every 4 hours.
Side Effects Of Sunscreen
Most of us lather on the sunscreen when we assume even the least bit of exposure to the sun. We are often advised to do just that because skin cancer from UV exposure is at risk of not doing this. Newer research, however, seems to indicate that sunscreen may cause more harm than good. Here are some side effects of sunscreen.
1. Irritation In Eyes
Sunscreen can cause pain and discomfort in your eye. This can also result in burning and temporary light sensitivity. Some claim that chemical sunscreens can cause blindness too. Rinse the sunscreen thoroughly with cold water or see the doctor if it gets into the eyes.
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2. Risk Of Breast Cancer
Sunscreen consists of ingredients that may affect breast cancer cells estrogenically. Some sunscreens can impact blood estrogens. Do not use chemical sunscreens on your kids because their skin appears to absorb chemicals quickly.
3. It Can Make Acne Worse
Some chemicals in the sunscreen product can make your problem even worse when you have acne-prone skin. You may use non-comedogenic and non-oily sunscreens to get rid of this side effect of the sunscreen. A sunscreen appropriate for your skin type is suggested. Never use body sunscreens on your face because they are too heavy.
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4. Allergic Reactions
Many of the chemicals in sunscreen can cause skin irritation such as redness, swelling, irritation. Some may have severe allergic reactions and extreme itching. This allergic reaction can come from chemicals such as fragrances or preservatives used in sunscreens. The PABA is best used with a high rate of allergy reactions in many commercial sunscreens. Therefore, many common sunscreens of famous brands are removed.
With ‘hypoallergenic’ mark you can even buy sunscreens. The PABA-free sunscreens are often labeled, but other chemicals may lead to an allergic problem. You should get a Patch Check from a dermatologist if you are unsure of the Allergic Reaction that can result from a sunscreen product. You may use zinc-oxide sunscreens because they are less allergic.
5. Promotes Skin Tumors And Lesions
Palmitate retinyl or palmitate vitamin A is a material that is used in most skincare products because it is an antioxidant that decreases aging. Research shows however that the topical formulation for rats treated with vitamin A shows that skin tumors and lesions grow faster.
6. Pain in Hairy Areas
There are various sunscreens to choose from. These also come in other types such as gels, lotions, sprays, ointments, creams, and wax sticks. Choosing the form of sunscreen would be your personal preference. Hairy areas such as the scalp or male chest are better covered by gel. Some sunscreens can cause the skin to tighten or dry, and may cause discomfort in hairy areas.
7. Damages Cells
Oxybenzone is a common chemical used in commercial sunscreens, as it absorbs UV light. However, hormone dysfunction and potential cell damage may also occur. Cell growth tends to be impaired, interfering in DNA synthesis. That could potentially cause genetic mutations. Studies in older women have linked oxybenzone to endometriosis. Women with higher oxybenzone levels had lower birth weight daughters during pregnancy.
8. Damage Hormones
Studies have shown that the role of hormones is impaired by oxybenzone, triclosan, parabens, and phthalates. The ingredients are commonly used in commercial sunscreens. Studies have shown that the rates in their systems of these chemicals have decreased rapidly when teens turn to safer products without these substances, and it is worth changing to chemicals that are safe.
How To Choose The Right Sunscreen
Try to find sunscreens that don’t contain the active ingredients listed above. Instead, seek to find others that use the minerals titanium and zinc. Such ingredients aim to have a physical barrier between the UV rays and your skin, rather than a chemical barrier. The good news is that unlike the chemical compounds described earlier, these ingredients don’t penetrate the skin. There are also plenty of natural sunscreens available that use ingredients such as coconut oil, shea butter, and carrot oil with a special SPF value of their own. Only make sure the product you are buying has a minimum SPF of 30.
Tips To Avoid The Side Effects Of Sunscreen
- Wash off and avoid using the sunscreen, if redness or discomfort is caused.
Speak to your doctor about using a new sunscreen, or seek advice from the pharmacist. - Reapply sunscreen after 2 hours, if you have long periods of time outdoors.
- When using the sunscreen lip balm type, apply only to the region of the lip.
- Choose your children’s Sunscreen with great wisdom.
- Stop sunscreen for children under 6 months of age.
- If you have oily skin, pick oils free and non-comedogenic sunscreen.
The best way to get rid of these issues is with the use of chemical-free natural products. You can choose from Sunscreens based on titanium oxide or zinc oxide to prevent allergic or estrogenic reactions at bay.
If your skin starts turning pink then your skin starts experiencing sun damage, so seek some shade on an organic sunscreen that doesn’t contain harmful substances as soon as possible or lather. Staying in the shade and wearing hats and long clothes are the best defense against the sun.
Also Read: 12 Skin Care Tips For 30+ Women
