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Sunscreen Allergy
As the ozone layer gets depleted, the impact of the harmful ultraviolet rays becomes more apparent. To save your skin from the damage that ultra violet rays can do, it is important that you shield your skin from them. Specially formulated lotions and creams called sunscreen and sun blocks are designed especially to give you a safety cover from the sun. Not only do these creams protect you from superficial sun damage that makes your skin look tired and old, but also prevents you from the harmful carcinogenic properties of the ultraviolet rays.
Though sunscreens are an excellent way to protect your skin from sustaining damage everyday, the chemicals used in these creams can sometimes cause violent reactions. Sunscreen allergy, though rare, makes it difficult for a person to wear sunscreen products. While there are several products which are hypoallergenic, they may be expensive and therefore, sunscreen allergy remains a critical issue.
In a lot of cases of sunscreen allergy, it has been found that the symptoms only appear when a person wears the sunscreen and exposes skin to the sun. These photoallergic reactions are caused due to the toxic reactions of the chemicals present in the sunscreen, with the ultraviolet rays. Some of the common chemicals used in the skin which cause these allergies are benzophenone, butyl methoxy dibenzoylmethane, oxynebzone and methoxycinnamate.
Sunscreen Allergy Symptoms
Since this is a contact allergy, the symptoms are largely contact dermatitis symptoms. The skin tends to break out in hives and blisters may be formed. There is a burning sensation on the affected parts. The exposed skin may also turn red and inflamed.
Sunscreen Allergy Treatment
Since all symptoms are dermal in nature, topical applications of steroids and corticosteroids are used to treat the symptoms. The best way to deal with a sunscreen allergy however, is to manage it.
The simplest thing to do is to get a hypoallergenic sunscreen or one which has chemicals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which act as physical blockers and do not rect with ultra violet rays.
Another great idea is to cover as much skin in the sun as possible. If not, wear a hat that shades your face and neck from the harmful ultraviolet rays.
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