Can sunblock cause eczema?

Sunblock can potentially cause eczema in some people, particularly if they have sensitive skin or are allergic to certain ingredients in the product.

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Sunblock can potentially cause eczema in some people, particularly if they have sensitive skin or are allergic to certain ingredients in the product. According to dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi, “The chemicals that are in certain sunscreens can be irritating to people, and that irritation can turn into an eczema flare.”

Interestingly, not all types of sunblock can cause eczema. Physical or mineral sunblocks, which contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are less likely to irritate the skin than chemical sunblocks. Additionally, some people may find that sunblock with fragrance or preservatives can also trigger eczema.

Here is a table comparing the two types of sunblock:

Physical/Mineral Sunblock Chemical Sunblock
Contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide Contains chemicals like oxybenzone and avobenzone
Provides a physical barrier on the skin Absorbs into the skin to block UV rays
Less likely to irritate the skin More likely to irritate the skin
Can leave a white cast on the skin Does not leave a white cast on the skin

In conclusion, while sunblock can be very beneficial for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, it is important to choose a product that works well with your skin to avoid the potential for eczema flare-ups. If you have sensitive skin or a history of eczema, opt for a physical or mineral sunblock and avoid products with fragrances or preservatives.

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In her video, “SUNSCREEN allergic reactions and rashes| Dr Dray,” Dr. Dray explains the potential allergens and irritants in sunscreens and their effects on the skin. While active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium oxide found in mineral sunscreens rarely cause allergies as they stay on the surface of the skin, oxybenzone and avobenzone, common ingredients in chemical sunscreens, can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Dr. Dray recommends mineral sunscreens as an alternative and discusses how some ingredients like fragrance, essential oils, and propylene glycol can cause non-allergic irritations. She also advises getting patch tested by a board-certified dermatologist, utilizing sun protective clothing, and monitoring medications that increase sensitivity to the sun.

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Sunscreen is a product that can protect the skin from sunburn, which can trigger eczema. However, some people may have skin reactions to sunscreen ingredients, such as irritation, allergy, or photoallergy. People with eczema should use sunscreen that is fragrance-free and contains mineral filters, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Sunscreens made for the face may also be gentler on the skin.

Sunscreen is a topical treatment that provides protection against UV radiation. A person with eczema should use sunscreen because sunburn can trigger eczema. People with eczema need to ensure that the sunscreen they use is fragrance-free and does not contain ingredients that may trigger an allergic reaction or cause irritation.

If so, stay cool and seek out shade. Always wear sunscreen. Sunburns inflame your skin and can lead to an eczema flare. If you’re sensitive to sunscreens, block out burning rays with mineral versions, like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Sunscreens made for the face may also give you gentle protection.

They are:

  • Irritant contact dermatitis: This type is more likely to occur in people who have sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema.

According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), individuals with the chronic skin condition can have a negative reaction to ingredients in sunscreen. Plus, a small number of people experience photoallergic contact dermatitis, a skin reaction that occurs when the sun activates an ingredient found in sunscreen, perfume, or medication.

More interesting questions on the issue

Can eczema be triggered by sunscreen?
Irritant contact dermatitis is a reaction that can occur after applying sunscreen and is more common in people who have a history of eczema or sensitive skin. It causes an irritation in the area of the skin where the sunscreen was applied, and can appear as mild redness or as a stinging sensation (without any redness).
What sunscreen to avoid with eczema?
Oxybenzone and avobenzone in particular are two common allergens in sunscreen that have been linked to allergic contact dermatitis, so to be on the safe side, avoid products containing these ingredients, the NEA advises.
Why does sunscreen irritate eczema?
Response: Dr. Yu also advised people with eczema to be aware of a rare allergic reaction called photoallergic contact dermatitis.”² This occurs when ingredients in the sunscreen remain inert and harmless on your skin until the UV rays activate them and cause flaring in your skin.
What does a sunscreen rash look like?
In reply to that: Symptoms of sunscreen allergy
This type of allergy usually manifests as a red, itchy rash with bumps in the area you applied sunscreen. "Usually it is a delayed rash, as if you touched poison ivy," Dr. Hsu Blatman says. There may also be swelling or fluid-filled blisters.
Can sunscreen cause eczema?
In reply to that: According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), individuals with the chronic skin condition can have a negative reaction to ingredients in sunscreen. Plus, a small number of people experience photoallergic contact dermatitis, a skin reaction that occurs when the sun activates an ingredient found in sunscreen, perfume, or medication.
How do you treat eczema in the Sun?
As a response to this: The National Eczema Association (NEA) also provides the following tips for managing eczema in the sun: Rinse off chlorinated or salt water after each swim and apply moisturizer followed by sunscreen. Rinse skin after sweating and change clothes to keep the skin clean and dry. Stay hydrated by drinking 8 cups of water each day.
Is eczema a problem?
Eczema often gives the appearance of pinkness, redness and dryness, and can make the skin feel sensitive, irritated, itchy and inflamed, Casey said. This is a concern when it comes to finding the right sunscreen that agrees with this skin type, as many formulas are made with ingredients that can exacerbate the condition.
Can sunscreen cause eczema?
As a response to this: According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), individuals with the chronic skin condition can have a negative reaction to ingredients in sunscreen. Plus, a small number of people experience photoallergic contact dermatitis, a skin reaction that occurs when the sun activates an ingredient found in sunscreen, perfume, or medication.
Is titanium dioxide a good sunscreen for eczema?
As an answer to this: According to the AAD, they can feel cooler on the skin and may be less irritating than chemical sunscreens. People with eczema may prefer mineral sunscreen, as it is unlikely to cause a flare-up. However, titanium dioxide can leave a white sheen on the skin, which may be more visible on darker skin.
How do you treat eczema in the Sun?
The National Eczema Association (NEA) also provides the following tips for managing eczema in the sun: Rinse off chlorinated or salt water after each swim and apply moisturizer followed by sunscreen. Rinse skin after sweating and change clothes to keep the skin clean and dry. Stay hydrated by drinking 8 cups of water each day.
Does heat affect eczema?
Everyone with eczema is affected by heat. People with eczema need to protect their skin from the sun and find a sunscreen that does not irritate their skin.

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