Applying sunscreen is imperative to protect your skin year-round, but especially in the summer months. However, there are instances where sunscreen can cause a rash or an allergic reaction. Dr. Jeff Yu, our chair of dermatology, answers these 5 questions about sunscreen and summertime rashes.
What is a sunscreen rash and why would someone’s skin have a reaction to sunscreen?
Sunscreen use is extremely important in the summertime, but not everyone’s skin can tolerate all sunscreens. Some people may be allergic to certain ingredients, especially fragrances and preservatives used in many products. Also, older sunscreens contain oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) which can cause rashes when exposed to the sun.
What should you do if you develop a rash from your sunscreen?
If you develop a rash, stop using the sunscreen immediately, avoid the sun or cover up and contact a dermatologist for an evaluation. Treatments include avoiding sunlight, topical steroids, oral antihistamines or in severe cases, oral steroids. You should seek medical attention if the rash is widespread, long-lasting, not resolving on its own or with oral antihistamines or over-the-counter topical treatments.
What should you do the next time you go out in the sun after having a reaction to sunscreen?
There are sunscreens with ingredients that are the least likely to cause reactions. Look for physical or mineral products containing titanium and zinc. You can also look for labels that say the sunscreen is for sensitive skin or fragrance-free. Try those sunscreens the next time you go out into the sun but apply the product to just one arm to see if there is any reaction, while making sure you don’t get sunburn on the unprotected arm.
What other options are there aside from sunscreen?
Cover up with clothing that has an ultraviolent protection factor or UPF. There are many brands and options available like sun shirts and sun hats.
What other rashes are common during the summer months and how do you treat them?
Heat can cause eczema to flare up and rosacea can worsen with heat and sunlight. People can also experience miliaria, also known as prickly heat or heat rash. There are more rare sun reactions like solar urticaria which is an allergy to sun or UV light, polymorphous light eruption, a sun allergy likely to occur in spring, and juvenile spring eruption, which is a sun-induced condition that typically happens around the ears of younger males. Not only that, certain autoimmune conditions, like lupus, can flare in the intense light.
Treatment differs for all the different sun rashes, but the most important thing is to get an actual diagnosis by a dermatologist before proceeding with treatment. Diagnostic tools include patch testing, photo testing, skin biopsy or bloodwork.