Which Sun Cream Should You Use if You Have Allergies?

An allergy to sun cream is caused by an excessive reaction of the immune system to certain ingredients in the product. Chemical filters, preservatives and fragrances are often to blame. These reactions can range from mild irritation to severe rashes.

What Is a Sun Allergy?

Sun allergy, or photodermatosis, is a skin reaction triggered by exposure to UV rays. Symptoms may include redness, itching, blisters, and rashes. It is sometimes referred to as solar urticaria. Managing this allergy involves avoiding direct sun exposure, wearing protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and using appropriate sunscreens.

The symptoms of a sun cream allergy can vary depending on the individual’s sensitivity and the product’s ingredients. Here are some common signs of an allergic reaction.

Symptoms

• Skin Redness: Redness often appears shortly after applying sun cream. The skin may turn bright red, with the redness spreading to the areas exposed to the product

• Intense Itching: Itching is a common symptom of an allergy. It may be localised to the area where the product was applied or spread more widely, causing significant discomfort

• Rashes: Rashes appear as small red bumps or raised patches across the skin. These rashes may resemble eczema and are often accompanied by itching

• Swelling: Swelling, or oedema, may occur in the areas where the sun cream has been applied. This symptom is the result of fluid build-up under the skin in response to irritation

• Blisters: In more severe cases, blisters may form. These fluid-filled blisters are painful and indicate a severe allergic reaction requiring medical attention

• Burning or Stinging Sensation: The skin may feel a burning or stinging sensation after applying sun cream. This sensation is usually caused by the product’s ingredients irritating the skin

• Peeling: Peeling occurs following an allergic reaction. The damaged skin begins to flake off, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly

It is important to watch out for these symptoms after applying sun cream, especially if you are using a new product for the first time. If you experience an allergic reaction, stop using the product immediately.

If you experience an allergic reaction, you must act quickly. Immediately wash the affected area with lukewarm water and mild soap to remove any traces of sun cream. Apply a cold compress to reduce inflammation and itching. Natural remedies may be helpful, such as: 

Aloe Vera Gel

This has the property of soothing irritation and itching. It can be applied directly to the skin.

Discover Aloe Vera Gel

Oatmeal

Oatmeal soothes itching and reduces redness.

Discover Oat Powder

If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor or, at the very least, ask your pharmacist for advice.

For those prone to allergies, it is recommended to choose sun creams with hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formulas. Opt for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide, which are less likely to cause allergies. Read the labels carefully to look for dermatologically tested products and avoid those containing parabens, sulphates, and artificial colourings.

People with sensitive skin should choose skincare products carefully to avoid allergic reactions and irritation. Here are the main ingredients to avoid:

Oxybenzone: A UV filter commonly used in chemical sunscreens. However, it is often linked to skin reactions and can irritate sensitive skin. Furthermore, oxybenzone is a potential endocrine disruptor.

Octinoxate: Another chemical sunscreen, it is also known to cause skin allergies. Like oxybenzone, it is suspected of being an endocrine disruptor and may cause irritation in some people.

Parabens: Preservatives used to extend the shelf life of cosmetic products. Although effective, they can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, particularly in people with sensitive skin. Some parabens have also been linked to hormonal disruption.

Sulphates: Such as sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES), are foaming agents commonly found in face and body cleansers. They can dry out the skin and cause irritation, especially with frequent use.

Artificial Fragrances: Added to skincare products to give them a pleasant scent. However, they commonly cause allergies and skin irritation. People with sensitive skin should choose fragrance-free products or those with natural fragrances.

Artificial Colourings: Used to enhance product appearance, they can irritate the skin. They are not necessary for the products’ effectiveness, and their presence may increase the risk of allergic reactions.

When using natural remedies to relieve skin allergies, it is important to take certain precautions. Carry out a patch test before using a new natural product to check your tolerance. If symptoms persist or worsen, you should see a doctor.

It can be tempting to skip sun protection if you’ve had allergic reactions to sun creams in the past. However, this is a very bad idea! The sun’s UV rays can be harmful to your health. And there are sun creams specifically designed for allergy-prone skin (mineral filters).

Stéphanie is a pharmacist (since 2010) and holds a PhD in molecular biology (since 2012). Passionate about writing, she has produced medical content for nearly 15 years. Her goal is to make information accessible and easy to understand, without ever sacrificing scientific accuracy.