Throughout the years, the dangers of sun exposure have been recognized such as sun-damaged skin to skin cancer. As a consequence, the use of sunscreen has been a regular routine in our daily lives. On the other hand, it led to various allergic reactions to the chemicals present in sunscreens. Contact dermatitis typically manifests after sunscreen products are used.
Close look on contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is described as a prickly, blistering rash that is typically triggered by direct exposure of a particular substance to the skin.
Contact dermatitis has been the reason for millions of visit to the doctor and all age groups are affected. Take note that females are commonly affected than males. Adolescents and middle-aged adults seem to be the commonly affected age groups.
How sunscreens work
It is important to note that sunscreen work in one of two ways.
Chemical absorbers
Most of the sunscreens in the market can absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation and turn this energy into a less damaging form of radiation that triggers reduced damage to the skin. There are also sunscreens that absorb various types of UV radiation such as UVA and UVB. The chemical absorbers include most of the sunscreens that are rubbed entirely into the skin.
Physical blockers
These sunscreens work by reflecting the radiation of the sun away from the skin so that it is not absorbed. Physical blockers include zinc oxide particularly those that are brightly colored and typically applied on the lips and nose.
Close look on sunscreen allergy
Even though contact dermatitis to sunscreen is not as common as cosmetic allergy, it is not an uncommon condition. The reaction to sunscreen can occur on the area where the substance was applied, but tends to be quite common in areas of the body with most exposure to the sun. This is also called as photo-contact dermatitis.
It is important to note that photo-contact dermatitis typically occurs on areas exposed to the sun. These areas typically include the face, “V area” of the upper chest, back of the hands, forearms and lower neck. The area of the neck beneath the chin is not usually affected.
Contact dermatitis to sunscreen can occur as a result of allergy to the active ingredients or the preservatives and fragrances present in the product.
Who are at risk for sunscreen allergy?
- Women due to the customary use of cosmetics that contain sunscreen
- Individuals with atopic dermatitis
- Individuals suffering from chronic sun-related skin issues such as sun-damaged skin
- Individuals with outdoor occupations
- Individuals who applied sunscreen over damaged skin
Chemicals in sunscreen that can trigger allergies
A number of active ingredients are present in sunscreen that is capable of triggering contact dermatitis. Take note that some of these chemicals are responsible for causing more issues than others. The following are the commonly used active ingredients present in sunscreen that can trigger contact dermatitis.
- Para-aminobenzoic acid
- Benzophenones
- Salicylates
- Cinnamates
- Octocrylene
- Dibenzoylmethanes