Sunscreen is a skincare product that protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays in the sun. UVA and UVB rays on the skin can cause wrinkles, dark spots, and sunburn. However, in some cases, using sunscreen can trigger allergic reactions. What causes sunscreen allergies, and how can they be prevented? Check out the following review.

What causes sunscreen allergy?

Sunscreen allergy is a rare condition. Sunscreen allergies are typically contact dermatitis, characterized by an itchy, peeling, or red skin rash caused by direct contact with certain substances.

Sunscreen allergies are less common than cosmetic allergies, but they can affect anyone who uses sunscreen. This reaction may occur on any part of the body where sunscreen is applied. This condition, also known as photocontact dermatitis, is more common in areas of the body that are frequently exposed to sunlight.

The main cause of sunscreen allergies is the ingredients found in sunscreen. Both chemical sunscreen and mineral sunscreen (physical) contain ingredients that can cause allergic reactions when used.

Chemical sunscreens are those that contain carbon materials. This sunscreen works by absorbing UV rays and releasing them from the body. Chemical sunscreen ingredients include oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone. In this type of sunscreen, ingredients that can trigger allergies include:

• Oxybenzone
• Dibenzoylmethanes
• Cinnamates
• Benzophenos
• Para-aminobenzoic acid

Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, work by reflecting and breaking down ultraviolet rays. The main ingredients in this type of sunscreen are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Titanium dioxide works by reflecting UV rays, whereas zinc oxide breaks down UV rays.

Mineral sunscreens are less likely to cause allergic reactions than chemical sunscreens, making them suitable for sensitive skin and children. However, contact dermatitis can also occur due to allergies to fragrances or preservatives contained in sunscreens.

Symptoms of sunscreen allergy

Sunscreen allergy symptoms can appear immediately after applying sunscreen, but they can also appear several hours later.

Common symptoms of a sunscreen allergy include:

• Skin redness or swelling
• Itching or stinging
• Bumps or itching
• Scaly or bleeding skin
• Rash or blisters appear

People with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis are more likely to develop sunscreen allergies. People who frequently use makeup and engage in outdoor activities are at a higher risk of developing sunscreen allergies.

Is it possible to prevent sunscreen allergy?

If you know which ingredients cause your sunscreen allergy, avoid using sunscreen that contains them. Before purchasing sunscreen, carefully read the ingredients on the package.

If you have a history of skin allergies or sensitive skin, use mineral sunscreens, which rarely cause allergic reactions. You can use mineral sunscreen that has been specially formulated for sensitive skin.

Sunscreen allergies are generally caused by allergies to the sunscreen's ingredients. Although this type of allergy is usually mild, if the allergic reaction progresses to systemic conditions such as fever and severe itching, you should see a doctor and stop using that sunscreen.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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