Did you know you can be allergic to sunscreen?
I’m not talking about hating a greasy texture or a white cast. These are nuisances, but they don’t ruin your skin.
I’m talking about an itchy, red rash that stings. And swells. What’s going on?
Some of the UV filters that protect you from the harmful sun’s rays can also cause an allergic reaction. Ouch!
The worst part? Sunscreen ain’t optional. You still need to find a way – and a sunscreen – that doesn’t trigger the bad reaction.
Here’s why sunscreen allergies happen and what to do about them:
- What Causes A Sunscreen Allergy?
- Who’s More At Risk Of Developing A Sunscreen Allergy?
- What Does Sunscreen Contain?
- What Sunscreen Ingredients Are More Likely To Cause Allergies?
- How Can You Figure Out What The Culprit Is?
- What Can You Do If You’re Allergic To Sunscreen?
- What Are The Best Mineral Sunscreens?
- I’ve Tried A Physical Sunblock And I Still Had A Negative Reaction. What Can I Do?
- The Bottom Line
What Causes A Sunscreen Allergy?
You’ll notice if you’re allergic to sunscreen, trust me! Wherever you apply the cream, you’ll get an itchy and blistering rash.
It’s a reaction triggered by:
- One of the ingredients in your sunscreen (contact dermatitis)
- A combination of sunscreen and UV exposure (phototoxic reaction).
The first instance is more common – and easier to fix.
Related: Skin Irritation Or Allergy?
Who’s More At Risk Of Developing A Sunscreen Allergy?
Everyone can develop a sunscreen allergy but you’re more at risk if:
- You spend a lot of time working outdoors
- Apply sunscreen to sun damaged skin
- Have a chronic condition related to the sun (for example, atopic dermatitis)
- You’re a woman (we use cosmetics with SPF, so more chance to get exposed and develop an allergy to UV filters)
Related: Do Cosmetics With SPF Provide Adequate Sun Protection?
How effective is your sunscreen? Sign up to the newsletter below to receive the “Sunscreen Audit” Worksheet and find out if your sunscreen is really up to the job:
What Does Sunscreen Contain?
So, you’re more at risk of developing an allergy to sunscreen. But, not all sunscreens are created equal. Some are more dangerous for you than others. It depends on what UV filters they use:
Chemical UV Filters: Synthetic UV filters that absorb UV radiation and turn it into a less dangerous and less damaging form of energy (heat). They include ingredients like mexoryl, avobenzone and oxybenzone. They’re more likely to cause irritations and allergies.
Physical UV Filters: White minerals that absorb UV rays and turn them into heat. They also scatter a small portion of UV rays away from your skin. They include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They don’t usually cause contact dermatitis but can leave a white cast on the skin.
Related: What’s The Difference Between Chemical And Physical Sunscreen?
What Sunscreen Ingredients Are More Likely To Cause Allergies?
Anyone can develop an allergy to everything at any time. *sighs* But, but there are some UV filters that are common allergens. Here are the worst culprits:
- Benzophenones: A group of substances that include oxybenzone, methanone, benzophenone-3 and any other ingredient that ends in “benzophenone”.
- Cinnamates: A group of ingredients that includes ethylhexyl-p-methoxycinnamate, and 2-ethoxyethyl-p-methoxycinnamate. Thy’re often used together with benzophenones for a double chance of irritation. Cinnamates are related to Balsam of Peru allergies, so if you suffer from that, stay away!
- Dibenzoylmethanes: This group contains avobenzone and eusolex 8020.
- Octocrylene: A fairly recent ingredient (it’s been used for about two decades!) but it’s already causing allergies in a lot of people.
- Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA): One of the first sunscreen ingredients used in the USA, it’s been almost completely abandoned.
- Salicylates: They include ingredients like benzyl salicylate (the first sunscreen ever used in the USA) octyl salicylate, and any other ingredient that ends with “salicylate.” They can cause contact dermatitis, but it’s rare.
- Fragrance and preservatives: To complicate things even more, it’s not only UV filters that can cause allergies and irritations. Each ingredient in your sunscreen could be the culprit! The most likely suspects? Fragrances and preservatives, especially those that work by releasing formaldehyde.
Related: All The UV Filters Used In Sunscreen: Which Ones Are The Best?
How Can You Figure Out What The Culprit Is?
The only way to know for sure is to visit your doctor for a patch allergy test.
I know, I know, that’s expensive. There’s another way. It’s not as accurate but, if you can’t go to a doctor yet, it will give you a good indication of what the culprit may be:
TAKE ACTION NOW: Take a close look at your sunscreen to figure out which ingredient is making your life such a misery. Are there any ingredients, especially UV filters that you had never used before? Or, if you’ve tried more than one sunscreen and all of them have given you rashes, what UV filters do they have in common? The answers to these questions will narrow down the list of suspects considerably or even identify the culprit immediately.
What Can You Do If You’re Allergic To Sunscreen?
Your first priority is to stay safe in the sun. Here’s how:
- Avoid the sun as much as possible
- Wear protective clothes (that includes sunglasses and hats, ladies!)
- Switch to a mineral sunscreen (i.e. those with only zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as UV filters)
P.S. Mineral sunscreens can feel greasy and leave a white cast behind. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different sunscreens until you find the one that’s right for you. And, don’t forget, these are small prices to pay for staying safe in the sun.
Related: 3 Reasons Mineral Sunscreen Is Safer For Sensitive Skin
What Are The Best Mineral Sunscreens?
As I’ve said, you need to experiment to find the right one for you. Here are a few of my fave picks to get you started:
- Badger Balm Unscented Sunscreen SPF 30 ($15.99): 18.75% non-nano uncoated zinc oxide. Available at: Iherb.
- EltaMD UV Pure BroadSpectrum SPF 47 ($24.50): 10% zinc oxide + 5.5% titanium dioxide + water-resistant technology + dry finish for oily skin. Available at Dermstore and Walmart.
- MDSolarSciences Mineral Creme Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($30.00): 1.5% titanium dioxide + 17% zinc oxide + fragrance-free. Available at Dermstore and Sephora.
- Replenix Sheer Physical Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 ($32.00): 13.75% zinc oxide + antioxidants. Available at Dermstore and Skinstore.
- Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection SPF 50 Sunscreen + WetForce For Sensitive Skin & Children ($42.00): available at Nordstrom and Ulta
I’ve Tried A Physical Sunblock And I Still Had A Negative Reaction. What Can I Do?
There are several possible explanations:
- You’re allergic to zinc oxide or titanium dioxide: These allergies are very, very rare, but you may be one of the unlucky few to have it.
- You’re allergic to another ingredient in the formula: As I’ve mentioned before, it may be a fragrance, a preservative or any other ingredient that’s causing the problem. Check the ingredient list like I’ve explained above to see if you can single out the culprit.
- You’re having a phototoxic reaction: As I’ve mentioned at the beginning of this post, it may be a combination of sunscreen + sunlight that’s triggering the allergy. Try applying the sunscreen on an area of skin that’s not exposed to sunlight. If you’re not getting a rash, it means you’re dealing with a phototoxic reaction. Consult your doctor for the best way to protect your skin from the sun without side effects.
The Bottom Line
If you are allergic to sunscreen, chances are you’re reacting either to one of the synthetic UV filters or a common allergen, such as fragrance or preservatives. Your best bet is to try a mineral sunscreen with as few ingredients as possible. If that doesn’t work, sunlight may be the problem. Consult your doctor as soon as possible!
Are you allergic to sunscreen? Share your experience in the comments.
I can’t use chemical sunscreens at all. They sting and give me breakouts. I thought PABA is no longer used in sunscreen, right? My current sunblock contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which is effective but gives me a white cast. I don’t have any problems with it but a lot of people have skin reaction, probably because of the other inactive ingredients.
.-= Dao´s last blog ..Lancer Dermatology Giveaway ($200 worth in prize) =-.
Hi Dao,
i read your comments about being allergic to sunscreens. what product/brand sunscreen do you? i’m highly allergic to sunscreen. i break out in rashes when i apply. i try to use baby sunscreen but oftens times, i still break out.
please let me know.
Q
I’m allergic to the chemical in sunscreen as well. Mine changed after a bio lab experiment. I had a reaction and then I couldn’t use sunscreen afterwards. :/
.-= Ahleessa´s last blog ..L’oreal Volume Shocking Mascara =-.
Dao, that’s too bad. But at least you can use physical blockers. Despite the white cast, I prefer them to the synthetic sunscreens. As for PABA, I think it isn’t used anymore. Maybe some cheap brand could still use it, but that’s very rare since most people react badly to it.
Ahleessa, I’m sorry, that’s awful. Have you tried using Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide? They shouldn’t cause you any reaction.
I breakout with sunscreen as well, but am not sure what it is that is causing it…i tried hypoallergenic, and same problem… Zinc oxide, do you mean using it on its own? See I dont need sunscreen, my daughter does, and i get the reaction from hers…is there anything safe and uv protected for a child????
Char_333 sadly hypoallergenic doesn’t mean anything. It’s impossible to make sure a cosmetic ingredient won’t give a negative reaction to someone but companies like to print that on the labels to make people believe their products are gentler when they’re not. You should check the ingredient list to see if the ingredients at the top are comedogenic and once you find the culprit, avoid it.
About Zinc Oxide, I mean using a sunscreen which lists it as an active ingredient. It protects skin against UVA and UVB rays and it’s gentler than chemical sunscreen agents so it’s less likely to cause negative reactions. However, it is slightly comedogenic can clog pores and cause breakouts in some very sensitive people. If pimples are your problem than maybe you’re better off with a sunscreen that contains both chemical and physical blockers.
And everyone needs sunscreen, even you. You should wear it every day even if it rains or snow or the sun damage will add up and cause premature aging and sun spots. Hope this helps. 🙂
Thanks so much for the information and the quick reply!
I will look for a sunscreen for myself and my daughter that meet that criteria… Thanks again
Char_333 you’re welcome. I’m glad I could help. 🙂
I am also struggling with allergy reaction to sunscreen lotion. I am frustrated. I am planning a wedding this summer and i am trying hard to avoid getting a reaction. My skin burns and blister after contact with sunscreen, even if i just touch a rail or anyone that has it on. This has been my problem for 9 years now. After my breakout i don’t know what to use or even what to use on my skin to protect me from the sun or from getting a breakout. Please give me some advice. I am trying zincofax cream the same stuff you put on babies bumb. It seems to dry it up a bit but i am need to use somthing that stop the breakouts. Where do i get physical blockers, and am pretty sure it the paraben am allergic to but i need sunscreen for my kids when they are out in the sun.
Donnette, I’m sorry to hear you have such an awful reaction to sunscreen. Parabens are preservatives used in a wide variety of beauty products so if you can’t use them I guess there are also lots of other cosmetics and skincare items you can’t use. If it’s the parabens you are allergic to, then choose products that don’t use them by checking the ingredient list.
If it is an active ingredient in the sunscreen instead, it’s probably a chemical filter so you would need to use physical blockers (ie Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide) instead. Just check the ingredient lists of sunscreen and buy one that contains one or both of these ingredients and no chemical filters at all as some contain both types of sunscreen agents. If you’re still having problems with physical blockers as well then it would be best to consult a dermatologist and see what he recommends you use.
Hope this helps.
im allergic to the suncreens and dont know what else to use…my friend told me that you can use some of the lotions to protect you from the rays but i dont know if its true
Yasmin, I’m sorry to hear that. By lotions do you mean moisturizers with SPF? Because they would offer some protection, even though just minimal, but they contain the same ingredients as sunscreen. Do you know what sunscreen ingredient you are allergic to? Usually the synthetic ones are those that cause problems, so I would look for a sunscreen that contain only Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide, which are physical blockers that protect both from UVA and UVB rays. If you still have problems, then you could be allergic to the way the sun reacts with your sunscreen, in which case it is better to consult a dermatologist. Hope this helps.
I react to most sunscreens, and some insect repellents and quite alot of moisturisers and skin cleaners and general creams…. I have found sunscreens that don’t make my skin rash, but it would be helpful to know what not to look for before we have to buy lots of different bottles to find an ok one. All the names are so long and scientific!
Laura, I’m sorry you react badly to some many products. It must be very frustrating trying to find products that work well for you especially when the ingredients have such long and complicated names. It’s hard to say what you are reacting to without doing allergies test but most chemical sunscreen ingredients can cause irritations and allergies, so I’d suggest you use sunscreens with physical blockers, namely Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. Also, fragrance can be a very irritating ingredients so I would opt for scent-free products. Hope this helps.
Hello,
A few years ago I experienced a severe acute onset allergic reaction (dermatitis- pustules and rash). It covered my face and neck and chest. Since then I have learned that when I don’t use products with Parabens I am fine. The only thing I am still trying to figure out is even when I use Paraben-free sunscreen I am still getting the reaction. What is confusing is that I only get the rash on my face and chest, no where else that I have also applied the sunscreen. This is getting really annoying because I love being out in the sun and I’m only wearing the sunscreen because I don’t want to damage my skin (I have never burned in my life). I know not wearing sunscreen is not a safe option. I almost want to say that it sounds like a phototoxic reaction but then I can’t rule it out as such because it doesn’t happen all the time. It only seems to be most problematic when I go on vacation to warmer climates (I’m from up north). I don’t think the physical blockers would be a good choice for me since I am really prone to breaking out. If you have any suggestions on products to try that would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Houndstoothgirl, I’m sorry to hear this, it’s awful! And it must be very frustrating for you. It could be a phototoxic reaction but since you mentioned that it doesn’t happen all the time, and that it happens on your face and chest, maybe it’s the combination of the sunscreen and some other product you use on your skin that’s causing the reaction. Like, the sunscreen you use is ok on its own, but when it reacts with your moisturizer or foundation or whatever other product you wear on your skin, the allergic reaction occurs? Since you said that it happens more in warmer climates, do you by any chance use different products on vacation? A different moisturizer perhaps? But if sunscreen is the only think you apply on your skin, then I’m not really sure what to suggest bar going to a doctor and have some allergy tests done.
I’m not really sure what products to suggest since you don’t wanna use physical blockers. Mexoryl is a chemical ingredient (found in L’Oreal sunscreen mostly as they patented it) that shouldn’t cause any allergic reaction but then I think most of the products with it contains some parabens and you can’t use those… But if you manage to find one without, that would be the best choice for you imo. Although I also think you should consult a doctor as he/she will be better able to determine the best products for you to use.
I’m pretty sure at this point that I’m allergic to the stearyl alcohol/stearic acid in sunscreen, which is also in all other lotions because it’s a standard emulsifier. I just developed the allergy a few months ago, and whenever I use sunscreen, lotion, some types of conditioner, or moisturizing soap, I get itchy bumps in that area. I burn very easily and I used to wear sunscreen every day, but now I just can’t take it.
Molly, I’m really sorry to hear that, it’s awful. That’s such a popular ingredient and so it’s not easy to find good products that don’t contain it. But at least you know what to avoid..
I’m really, really allergic to chemical sunscreens too – and I’ve been dealing with summertime break outs for the last ten years! It’s always a reaction to coming in contact with other people wearing chemical sunscreens that gets me.
But there are a few products for me and my family to wear that won’t cause me a week’s worth of agony:
1. Neutrogena sensitive skin sunscreen lotion spf 60
The Active Ingredients are: Titanium Dioxide 4.9%, Zinc Oxide 4.7%
2. A French product called: Kibio Solaire Fluide Protecteur Corps, spf 20
The Active Ingredients are: Titanium Dioxide 8%, Zinc Oxide 2.9%
Although they both leave a little bit of a white cast to your skin, it’s a small price to pay to skip the painful allergic reaction and still get UV protection.
Kim, I’m sorry to hear about your allergy, but I’m glad you’ve found some products that work for you. And thanks for sharing them, I’m sure other people who are allergic to chemical sunscreens will find your recommendations helpful. And I agree with you, the white cast is a small price to pay for the benefits.
This is the problem that I have. I use sunscreen and go out and tan and a few hours later or maybe a day later, my skin would have a irritating rash on it almost like sunburn but more rashy feeling on my face, shoulders and arms. what to do? what kind of sunscreen can i use?
Christy, I’m sorry to hear that, it’s awful! I think your best bet would be to use a sunscreen with zinc oxide, which doesn’t irritate skin and provides broad spectrum protection on its own.
I am very disappointed that I am no longer able to get PABA-based sunscreens. They worked great and never caused anyone in my family any problems. PABA is a B vitamin. Almost all new sunscreens contain salicilates which makes people bleed, including me. 25 years ago, I took part in a 6 week research test for sunscreens. I had indicated that I am allergic to ASA and should not have been allowed to take part. To this day, I have severe itching in the areas on my back where the sunscreens were applied. The dermatologist to whom the company sent me ridiculed me, telling me that the symptoms were imaginary. Some of the women in the test had severe bleeding, but were not pulled from the test until their wounds festered. I will never again take part in a research test.
Traute, I’m so sorry to hear that! What a terrible experience!
I am a man trying to take care of his skin but everthing that has spf scares me. In the past my reactions were so bad that even my lips broke out in terrible rashes, it was agonizing my face swelled and got red, I try PABA free, Baby spf thinking that would do the trick, I think I have tried zink but nothing works. my arms get bumpy and tender and my face swells up so badly that I am embarrased to go anywhere. it’s strarting to get sunny and hot where I live, can a vented hat and sun glasses be enough?
Brian, I’m so sorry to hear about your problem. That’s really awful!
Hat and glasses will definitely help, but they won’t be able to protect the rest of the face and other areas that should be exposed to the sun. You said that you tried sunscreen with zinc oxide, but that it didn’t work either. Did you check the label to see if other sunscreen agents were present in the lotion? Cos sometimes zinc oxide is used with other ingredients and you may have reacted to one of those.
But if the only sunscreen agent the product contained was zinc oxide, then I’d try to apply it on a small area of the body that’s not exposed to the sun and see if you still get an allergic reaction. If you don’t, then the problem is not caused by the sunscreen but by sunlight and you should consult a doctor to find out what you can do about it. Hope this helps.
I am allergic to all sunscreens, both chemical and physical blockers. I have tried titanium dioxide only and zinc oxide only sunscreens and they both cause an allergic reaction whether I spend time in the sun or not. I do have atopic dermatitis, so I know genetically my skin barrier is not as good as others, even when I do not have active outbreaks. I even tried mineral make-up which has some sunblock protective properties as well as plain zinc oxide powder – but these both of these caused a terrible rash. So, my skin is so much calmer and clearer when I do not wear sunblock. Just wanted to let people know that even minerals are allergenic. I have to stick with hats and sunglasses and sun avoidance. Surprisingly despite not being able to wear sunscreen my skin looks much better than most people my age, so sunscreen is not the only thing that protects people from photo-aging. Healthy diet plays a big role too. Curious if others have experienced this as well.
Fiona, I’m sorry to hear you’re allergic to all types of sunscreens and thanks for sharing your experience. Sunscreen is very important in preventing premature aging, but so is diet I agree. Eating healthily helps a lot too.
It seems that I am not only allergic to sunscreens but most lip products as well. I cannot use Chapstick or Blistex or even the all-natural Burt’s Bees products. Carmex and Vaseline are the only products I can use on my lips. I don’t have a reaction to sunscreen anywhere but my lips and I somehow managed to get some on my face while sunbathing the other day. My lips swell up, turn brigher red than a baboon’s backside and ooze. It’s a painful and embarrassing reaction. I’m typing this out while holding an ice pack to my lips. It’s the only thing that keeps the swelling and weeping down.
KinaMorii, I’m so sorry to hear that! That’s really terrible and must be frustrating too. I wish there was something I could do to help, but I’m glad that you managed to find a couple of products that work well for you.
Wow, I am so glad to find someoone who has the same reaction. I can’t wear any tyes of lipsticks or lip gloss that has spf in it. The only thing i found that I can wear is carmex and victoria secret lipgloss. If i even so much as kiss my kids who have sunblock on I am in trouble. I do have a reaction if I wear in on my body, usually my shoulders and chest get all scaly and bumpy. This is one allergy that I really truly am annoyed by!!!
Liz, thank you for your comment. I’m sorry about your allergy. That must be very annoying indeed.
I am wondering if more people are allergic to titanium dioxide than is known at this point. I am allergic to it–it makes my face itch, feel tight and dry, my eyes water, and a rash begins. Octoxinate produces similar symptoms but not quite as extreme. Ethylhexyl methoxicinnimate makes my eyes water like crazy! I just read a dermatologist’s comment that putting sunscreen in makeup is next to useless because foundation, for example, is applied too thinly and often not to all areas of the face. Further, it is not applied frequently enough. With the prevalence of titanium dioxide in makeup (look at mineral makeup!), it may be that more and more women become sensitive to it. I, too, wish PABA were still used as I did not have a reaction to that. Zinc Oxide is the one I do best with but I can’t use it every day or my skin reacts. I’m not a sun worshipper and I don’t burn easily, so I don’t worry about it that much.
Julia, I’m really sorry to hear that, how awful! As far as I know Titanium Dioxide does not cause allergies but I guess that, as its use is becoming widespread and more and more people use it, some could become sensitive to it. And that dermatologist is right. You have to apply several layers of foundations and powders to get the SPF stated on the packaging, which is not really possible to do anyway. I hope you’ll be able to find a sunscreen that work for you soon.
I don’t use sunscreen at all any more. I just make sure that I cover when the sun is high in the sky, about 11:30 to 2:30, especially from June to August. That works fine for me. Haven’t had a sunburn in 20 years.
The claim that PABA is no longer used because of allergic reactions seems to be the pharmaceutical industry’s attempt sell their chemical products. As everyone should know by now, the Canadian government has several times attempted to pass a bill which will make the selling and even growing of natural products illegal. If I continue to teach people the benefits of medicinal herbs, I will be put in jail. I have read the proposed bill. Most people do not believe that any government would do that. They will wake up when it is too late.
Traute Klein, I’m sorry to hear that. I believe there are studies showing that lots of people are allergic to PABA, which doesn’t surprise me because when something is widely used, then more and more people will become sensitive to it. I think that’s what will happen in the future with PABA alternatives that are becoming more and more common nowadays.
Also, news of that bill doesn’t surprise me at all. I have heard of a bill in the US that, in an attempt to get rid of all potential (not proven) carcinogens, de facto, if it passes, would ban a lot of natural substances as they contain these dangerous compounds. Only that when their amount is minuscule they aren’t dangerous at all and these plants usually contain other compounds that make the “dangerous” ones totally innocuous anyway. But sadly governments don’t understand science and neither do most people. They get scared when they hear that an ingredient is toxic without researching whether these claims are true or false. Unfortunately they’ll realise their errors only when it is too late.
I’ve recently been doing research about sunscreens after my 21 month old broke out in blisters and hives from two different sunscreens. I want to point out that just because the active ingredient in a sunscreen is titanium oxide or zinc oxide does not mean that it won’t contain other chemicals in the inactive ingredients that will break you out. The sunblock we found that worked for my son is Seventh Generations Baby Sunscreen. It is a new product that I’ve only found online. It contains more natural ingredients and on the plus side doesn’t stink like typical sunscreen. It has a light citrusy smell. I hope that helps someone.
Katelyn, I’m sorry to hear that and you’re absolutely right. Any ingredients in sunscreens can cause a negative reaction, thanks for the remainder. And also thanks for sharing what works for your son. I’m sure that will help other people with the same problem.
When I put suncreamon the only area that is affected is my face. It doesn’t even really hurt it just comes out into a red rash. I am always wearing a hat but it still happens. I am not definite it is the suncream but every holiday or sunny day I pit on suncream and the rash breaks out. Please help xxx
Teigan, I’m sorry to hear that. Do all sunscreens do that to you? Have you tried using one with only Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide?
I have nor tried many suncreams out but I am going to get a suncream fro sensitive skin to see if that helps ! As I am in secondary school it can be quite embarrassing having red splotchy cheeks ! I will definitely try out some different suncreams! Thank you x I will give you the update soon !
Teigan, you’re welcome. Do try one with Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. They’re great for sensitive skin. Let me know how it goes. 🙂
I went cycling yesterday and because the weather was hot, I sprayed some sunscreen on myself (the colourless kind) and before evening I started itching. I didn’t think anything of it then. But I couldn’t sleep well the whole night because I was scratching so much, especially at the neck (and I put the most sunscreen at my neck). Now, my arms itch like crazy and I have rashes all over them. My neck too. I’m not sure if it’s caused by the sunscreen but I remember having such a reaction a few years back, when I went to the beach to swim and applied sunscreen too. Now I’m hesitant to apply sunscreen because I’m not sure which kind I’m allergic to. It sucks. 🙁
Vanessa, I’m so sorry to hear that. It sucks indeed. I believe you may be allergic to a chemical sunscreen agent, so I would opt for a sunscreen with only physical blockers, ie only (or both) Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. These usually don’t cause allergic reactions, but may leave a white cast on skin.
Great information about sunscreen. I developed a nasty allergy to the ingrediant Avobenzone. Took months to figure out what was making me itch to the point where my eyelids were nearly swollen shut! I went to the Allergist and all they could tell me was that I tested positive to thimerasol after my skin patch test! Even “sensitive” suncreens will use it. I like Elta MD’s facial sunblock with SpF of 30. It feels like a moisturizer when applied. Lubriderm made a Moisturizer with SpF 15 that was great but last year they “improved” it with Avobenzone unfortunately. As for my kids, I don’t help them apply suncreen, unless it is the Spray kind.
Amy Jo, thanks for your comment and I’m sorry to hear about your allergy to Avobenzone. It must be so frustrating, especially having to wait all that time to know what caused the problem. But at least now you know what to avoid and I’m glad you’ve found something that works well for you.
my granddaughter has it her face…I never had acne ….but her mother feels that is a reaction to sun lotion it iches an looks like white heads…very red…what do you do to get rid of this rash. thanks
Joanne, I’m sorry to hear that. If it’s an allergic reaction, then the best thing to do would be to consult a doctor to know what exactly caused it so he/she can prescribe the proper treatment.
would it make sense to make you own sunscreen? tried it before, all natural ingredients except zinc oxide and it works
Abena, even though I’m usually a fan of making your own products, I wouldn’t recommend making your own sunscreen. That’s because we don’t know exactly the amount of sunscreen ingredients that should be used to effectively protect skin. Better be safe than sorry and buy a sunscreen properly formulated by a cosmetic chemist.
I’m so grateful for sites like these–back in the day I had to figure out each individual allergen on my own (uh oh, my lips are red and bumpy and twice their usual size–what’s in this lip balm?). My red flag ingredients include PABA, avobenzone, oxybenzone, and several plant oils and extracts (no minty lip balm!). I seem to be OK with octyl-methoxycinnamate aka octinoxate, and octyl-salicylate aka octisalate, which makes it much easier to find something at the drugstore that I can use. I prefer all mineral sunscreens though. Zinc oxide is my favorite for the face, because my oily skin seems to love it–for me it helps prevent breakouts and keeps my skin from becoming greasy. Your mileage may vary!
Those with PABA allergies–it’s still included in some multivitamin formulas, so don’t forget to check the label on those as well. The amount in a multivitamin is not supposed to be enough to cause an allergic reaction, but it nonetheless made my throat itch something awful before I finally figured out the cause.
Amy, thanks for your comment. I’m sorry you are allergic to so many things, but at least you now know what to avoid. I prefer mineral sunscreens too. Zinc Oxide is my favourite ingredient as well as it protects both against UVA and UVB rays and is not irritating.
Thanks for the remainder about PABA too. I agree that if you’re allergic, you shouldn’t take any chances.
Hello,
I too like everyone else had a reaction to my sunscreen. I am wondering- what can I do to reduce the irritation, rough bumpy, chapped feeling. I heard aloe vera is good?
Help please!
Thanks,
Monika
Hello Mon, I’m sorry to hear that. I would recommend and hydrocortisone cream. It should calm your skin but make sure you follow the instructions exactly. Hope this helps.
Hello
Recently I had a serious breakout of rashes on my face, my eyelids, my chin, and some parts of my neck. It flares up every week and at some points made my eyes and cheeks swollen. The first time it happened the dermatologist said it was contact dermatitis due to some make up products I used and gave me a cortisol shot which makes the swelling go down. But then I had post menopausal bleeding right after that and it caused a false alarm that sent me to the OB/gynae. Then the following weeks the breakouts continued and I experienced red, itchy skin strictly restricted to my face/chin only. I suspect it is due to the sunscreen I am using as I had eliminated all make up products from my face for a whole week and I still had breakouts.
I did some research on ingredients in sunscreen, specifically avobenzone and oxybenzone which can trigger allergic reations, and is a potential hormone disrupter and penetrates the skin in relatively large amounts. I had been using Neutrogena Age Shield face block SPF110 for the past year and this product was stated as having 6% oxybenzone and 3% avobenzone. My dermatologist has recommended that I switch to the Neutrogena Baby faceblock which contains titanium dioxide and zine oxide instead. Does anyone has any idea if this sunscreen has any harmful effects so far? Please advise as I have fair skin and burn easily even though I wear protective clothing and hats.
Itchy Nightmare
Itchy nightmare, I’m sorry you had such a bad reaction, how awful! I agree with your dermatologist that you should switch to a product with titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide. These ingredients are gentler and haven’t been shown to cause allergc reactions. You can use them safely.
Hello, I seem to be allergic to every sun cream I try. I’ve even tried a chemical-free one and after much rubbing in I still started scratching shortly after going in the sun and came out in a red rash! However, I’m not affected by moisturisers or face creams that contain SPF. I am also allergic to all fake tans and perfume! This is very frustrating, especially as I am getting married on a beach in January so obviously don’t want to be covered in a rash on my wedding day!
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Lynne, I’m so sorry to hear that, it must be very frustrating! It seems that you may be allergic to more than an ingredient, so I’d suggest you have an allergy test done. That way you’ll know exactly what to avoid and will be able to choose products that don’t hurt your skin.
My daughter now 5 is severely allergic to sunscreen. When she was 6 months old put on sunscreen she immediately started swelling whole body but worse on face green gunk coming out of eyes nose running we immediately tried to wash it off and went to seek medical advise
Was told it was an allergy n gave her benadryl. We have since tried a few sunscreens for sensitive skin with worse side effects. Her skin will immediately burn peel blister swell its horrible. We were told to just not use sunscreen anymore. So we haven’t in 2 yrs. She cannot even touch someone if they have it on or she will have a reaction. I was just curious if anyone else has had these issues? If so any suggestions? She is a stubborn girl n doesn’t like to keep her hats or cover ups for bathing suits. Thanks for listening.
Patricia, I’m so sorry to hear that, how horrible! Have you tried a sunscreen with only titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide? I’m asking because some sunscreens that are labelled for sensitive skin can still contain chemical sunscreen ingredients that can cause allergies. If, however, you’ve tried those sunscreens and they didn’t work, then I’d recommend to have some allergy tests done so you know exactly what it is she is allergic to and you can better avoid it. In the meantime, the only thing I can suggest is to keep her out of the sun as much as possible, and when it isn’t, to make her wear protective clothing and hats.
I saw a dermatologist last year and she determined that I am allergic to octotrylene in face creams and sunscreens. She advised me to use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. I have some zinc ointment but it contains petrolatum which I understand the European council considers a carcinogen and restricts its use in skin care products. Are there products that I can look for which do not contain potentially harmful non medicinal ingredients?
Maureen, petrolatum in skincare products is safe. Unrefined petrolatum can contain carcinogenic substances it is true, but the type used in cosmetics undergoes a refining process that gets rid of all those impurities. It is the first, unrefined type that is banned in Europe, the second is widely used here (I live in Italy) too. So, use your zinc ointment safely, it won’t harm you.
I’m allergic to most sunscreen however I have found that using baby sunblock is fine, you might want to try this? 🙂
Sarah, I’m glad you’ve found something that works for you. Baby sunblock usually contains fewer and milder ingredients so they’re less likely to cause allergies.
And thanks for your comments. I’m sure it will help other people who have the same problem.
We make a zinc oxide based range of sunscreens that are non-toxic and non-chemical based with all natural, organic ingredients. We have many requests from people with severe reactions to sunscreens to try our sunumbra products. They also contain a number of botanical ingredients that are extremely healing for the skin, as well as boosting your own natural protection abilities to deal with the harmful effects of the sun.
I would really love feedback from anyone who tries them, as to whether or not they help?
Sue, thanks for your comments. Your line sounds intriguing. I don’t think I have ever seen them here, but I hope someone else who has tried them can give you their feedback.
That would be excellent. We are a small producer with our key focus on being non-toxic using zinc-oxide only, with added assistance from nature to boost our internal protection systems. I will gladly send you a sample to try if you would like?
Sue, I’d like that, thank you. I live in Italy, though. Is it possible for you to ship here? If so, send me an email at beautifulwithbrains[at]gmail[dot]com.
I’m severely allergic to aspirin, so I avoid products with salicylic acid. However, I’ve learned the hard way that there are about a gazillion other products that contain salicylates but with sneaky names (like benzoates). Can you recommend a brand that will be safe for me for daily use?
Nichole, I’m sorry to hear about your allergies. It’s so difficult to recommend a brand that’s safe for use for those allergic to salicylates because even brands that claim to be free of them, like Andrea Rose and Cleure, use them in a bunch of their products. Still, you can try those that don’t. Otherwise, instead than a brand, you should look for products with as few ingredients as possible. That way, you’re less likely to get a negative reaction and spotting any salicylates will be easier too if the list isn’t too long.
Thanks. It can get frustrating, but my reactions are so severe – tongue and throat swelling – that I have to really be careful. I’ve found some useful sites with lists of foods and ingredients that are unsafe . Thanks again for the suggestion and for having this post up!
You’re very welcome and I’m sorry I couldn’t be of more help.
Since I am no longer able to find a PABA sunscreen, I just don’t use any sunscreen any more. All of the sunscreens I see are far stronger than necessary to prevent burning. I make sure that I don’t expose my skin to the sun while the sun is high in the sky. If we don’t get sun, where would we get the vitamin D which is necessary for our health. BTW, after the vitamin D is produced on your skin by the sun, make sure you don’t wash it off by taking a shower. The vitamin D is in the natural body oil and the oil has to be absorbed into the skin or else you lose all the vitamin D.
Traute, sunscreen isn’t used only to prevent burning. It also prevents cancer, premature wrinkles, brown spots and it’s best to use one with a higher than a lower SPF. As for Vitamin D, there are many foods that contain it. If you eat a healthy, balanced diet, you’ll get all the Vitamin D your body needs without the need to get it from the sun.
Hi, I’ve been suffering with an allergic reaction to sun tan lotion for years now but this only occurs on my face, it starts with red blochey rash and then goes to very small white spots. My doctor has suggested trying sunblock in a stick rather than a lotion as he said its the agents that make a lotion runny that normally cause a reaction. However having looked at your list of ingredients that are likely to cause allergies some of the ingredients seem to be in most stick blocks – even kids ones! Although they also include Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide… I’m totally at a loss! Can you recommend a brand that is safe? I live in the UK. Appreciate any help you can give me Thanks
Emma, the problem with allergic reactions is that any ingredient used in cosmetics could potentially cause them. Those that I listed here are just the most common culprits, but it is possible that you are reacting to something else entirely. The only way to know for sure is to do a patch test.
In the meantime, I would suggest you use a physical sunscreen with as few ingredients as possible, so the chances of you reacting badly to it will be greatly reduced. Badger and Blue Lizard are two brands you could try. Hope this helps.
Thank you for getting back to me so quickly, I was just about to order a Badger sunblock stick so good to know its one you would suggest. I will also look up Blue Lizard many thanks emma
Emma, you’re welcome. I hope the Badger sunblock stick works well for you.
thanks for your insightful article.
I am not sure if I am allergic, irritated or sensitive to chemical sunscreen as i don’t experience rashes, irritation as such, but only causes me to breakout on my cheeks and chin areas. i rarely have breakouts on my t-zone which is weird because i thought those areas are meant to be oily! if you don’t mind, would appreciate if you could clarify the differences 🙂
I have never had any breakouts in my teenage life until 2 years ago and ever since i started using sunscreen religiously after i migrated to Aus. to be honest, i am not sure what is causing my moderate to severe breakouts because i have had so many changes in my life for the past 2 years – difference in climate (from a tropical country with 90% humidity level to a 4-season country with 20% humidity level)? aging? sunscreen? stress? ahhhhhh
sorry i digressed 🙂
anyhow, in terms of sunscreen, i suspect the culprits are these with the following concentration: avobenzone (3%) or oxybenzone (4%). im currently using a zinc oxide + octyl methoxycinnamate combination sunscreen (olay daily defence) which have not to cause any breakouts! i would like to try a physical sunscreen with only zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients – Elta MD since i’ve heard so many great comments.
any idea if you think my speculation about oxybenzone and/or avobenzone is correct? appreciate any help and advice. cheers.
Stillsearching, I don’t think what you experienced was an allergy or an irritating, but that you were simply using a sunscreen with one or more comedogenic ingredients, which clog the pores and cause skin to breakout.
I don’t think the culprits are avobenzone or oxybenzone because neither is particularly comedogenic. It’s more likely it was one of the emollients or thickeners (such as the Palmitates, Myristates or Coconut Oil) that was to blame. You can find a list of comedogenic ingredients here: http://beautifulwithbrains.com/2009/06/10/what-ingredients-are-comedogenic/
Having said that, you can still try a physical sunscreen. Those with Zinc Oxide are particularly good because this ingredient can, on its own, protect against the whole UV spectrum, and doesn’t cause irritations. It can leave a white cast on skin though. Hope this helps.
sorry I have been away. Thanks for your reply, much appreciated.
I finally got around to see a dermatologist, asked him if i could be allergic to sunscreen, he wasn’t too keen about the idea and quite frankly dismissed my suspicion. then i went about telling him all acne treatments i have tried. considering that I have tried minocycline, tretinoin cream (0.1%), salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid etc etc – he decided to put me on roccutane AND mentioned that my implanon (contraceptive) could have caused it! uhhhh magic to my ear! so i’ve decided to remove my implanon and go on roccutane as well because i just cannot cannot deal with this acne ordeal anymore…
apologies, this may not be related to sunscreen anymore, but i thought i would put my situation out there 🙂 again, thanks for responding.
You’re welcome and thank you for sharing your experience with us. I’m sure other women who are going through the same thing will find it helpful. And I hope the new treatment will work well for you. 🙂
Over the course of the past few years I’ve gone from being mildly sensititve to various cosmetics to having an allergic reaction to every lotion, make-up, sunscreen and body wash that I’ve tried (probably over 20 different products!) After patch testing at my dermatologist’s office it was determined that I’m allergic to nickel, fragrance mix and products containing ingredients ending in “isothizolinone”. I was put on a nickel free diet (which is very nutritionally poor) but my skin got worse. The doctor gave me a list of products that might work for each of the different allergies, but every product on the individual lists has at least one of my triggers. I’m desperate because the rashes I had in the past caused itching which resulted in permanent red patches and broken capillaries on my cheeks that I can’t cover because of my allergy to make-up. I would be thrilled to find a single product that works but after over a dozen hours of online research I’ve come up short.
Karen, I’m so sorry to hear that, it must be so frustrating! I’m not sure what product to suggest as, as you’ve unfortunately discovered, pretty much every product contains something you’re allergic to, but I will do a search too and see if I can come up with something.
Hi, My daughter is severely allergic to sunscreen so we us Blue Lizard and find it excellent. She also gets cold sores from the sun and UV rays so we need a lip balm with an SPF but without a chemical sunscreen. Do you know if a good lip balm with a physical block sunscreen in it? Greatly appreciated!!
Heather, hi. I’m sorry to hear about your daughter’s allergy. Badger has a lip balm with Zinc Oxide. It’s called SPF15 Lip Balm Sunscreen. It can leave a subtle white tint on the lips, but it should be able to protect them without irritating them. Hope this helps.
so What is a name of a sunscreen to use???
Vicki, there are a lot of good sunscreens on the market. You just need to identify what it is you’re allergic to and pick a product without the offending ingredient.
I am allergic to Nickel, neomcyine, Caine mix, Paraben mix, and MCI/MI Isothiazolinone and methlisothiazolinone. help what line of products can I use? Household, body, etc. ??
Vicky, I’m sorry to hear about your allergy. It’s impossible to recommend a line as chances are at least one of the products will have one of these ingredients. Your best bet is to opt for basic products, with only a handful ingredients, which are less likely to contain something that may trigger an allergic reaction.
Hello, I am one of those people who have reactions to both mineral sunscreens and chemical sunscreens, especially greater than spf 15 (which really is inadequate for my needs since I do a lot of outdoor exercise and have vary fair skin). Zinc sunscreens, even in a titanium dioxide blend or chemical blend like some Elta prodcuts, make my skin dry up and peel, along with eczema-like rashes, after 2 days of use; titanium dioxide-only sunscreens (spf 20+) seem great the first couple of days, then my skin starts looking scaly (and I do exfoliate regularly), and I get little bumps and some pimples. Chemical sunscreens seem to vary, with some causing my eyes to water all day, some itching, and my forehead to break out in little bumps, but never totally reaction-free (my body below my neck seems to tolerate them OK though). At least Aveeno eczema cream overnight for a couple days makes the bumps go away.
The only sunscreens that have not given me a reaction are the now discontinued Bobbi Brown Protective face base spf 15 (which was only good for back and forth to work anyway), and Laura Mercier fluid spf 40 (which is very expensive and doesn’t work as well when I travel to dry climates). I am wondering if there is some typical concentration of active ingredients that tends to trigger a reaction, so maybe I can look for something that stays under a certain percentage. Any ideas? My derm is useless since he just keeps telling me to use zinc. I’d rather have a bumpy rash on my forehead than patchy peeling skin all over my face and neck.
Elizabeth, I’m so sorry to hear about your problem. I’m not surprised that your derm recommends zinc as that’s considered to be one of the gentlest sunscreen agents available at the moment. It’s usually what I recommend to people with very sensitive skin like yours. Although in your case, it doesn’t seem to work. Have you had an allergy test done? If not, you should so that you can know for certain to what ingredients you’re allergic to and avoid them. It could be any ingredient, not just sunscreen agents, that trigger a reaction.
In the meantime, you should look for a sunscreen with Octyl Methoxycinnamate (7.5%), Titanium Dioxide (5%). These are the ingredients used in the Laura Mercier sunscreen that you can use, so something with them shouldn’t irritate your skin. Unfortunately, finding a dupe is not easy. I tried a google search and didn’t find any yet, but then not every brand puts their ingredient lists online, so you may have more luck in store. Another option, if you haven’t tried it already, would be to use a sunscreen with Mexoryl. L’Oreal and La Roche Posay use it and it is considered a gentle ingredient too, so hopefully it won’t trigger a negative reaction.
You are so right about other ingredients or combinations of ingredients causing a reaction! I found something that seems to be working right now: Paula’s Choice Moisture Boost SPF 30. Surprisingly it is a chemical sunscreen, but it hardly causes any skin irritation after a full week of daily use, although it makes my eyes water a little when it gets close. It also works great under makeup, although I worry about it being too emollient in the summer when it is regularly 95+ for months. I suppose I can switch back to the Laura Mercier or try the Le Roche Posay you mentioned over or under a lighter moisturizer. I am also finding that California Baby unscented spf 30 works well for when I go running outside since it is fairly water/sweat resistant, but it is a bit heavy for everyday.
Elizabeth, I’m glad you found something that works well for you. Thanks you for sharing. I’m sure other people will find your recommendations useful too.
Hi there
With every sunscreen I’ve ever used (as far as I can remember), my eyes start streaming on about day two of my holiday and stay that way until I get home. This makes the skin around my eyes red and sore.
I always assumed that I was just clumsy and got cream in my eye, but the effect lasts so long that it can’t possibly be that. Especially when my eyes start running as soon as I wake up, before I’ve even applied sunscreen. I’m now wondering if I’m allergic to scents or something. I don’t have any other allergies; do you think a natural, perfume free sunscreen would help this?
I usually try to get a high factor with 5-star UVA protection, so I’m also wondering if the gentler creams generally have a lower UVA rating?
Thanks
Laura
Laura, hi. I’m sorry to hear about your problem. Fragrance could be the culprit. If so, though, you should get the same reaction even when you use other skincare products with fragrance. I would suggest you have patch tests done to determine once and for all what it is you are allergic to.
In the meantime, I would recommend you try a fragrance-free physical sunscreen (ie one with only zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide) as those tend to be gentler. The UVA rating depends on the concentration of UVA filters only, not on the mildness of the whole formula. Zinc Oxide is the best sunscreen agent as it can protect against the entire UVA and UVB range and doesn’t usually cause allergies either. If you choose one which has a large concentration of this ingredient, your skin will be well-protected.
I’m allergic to all metals save for gold and titanium. So I go without sunscreen… thankfully I’m prone to tanning, not burning. When I was younger and absolutely needed it (i.e. high intensity sun), I used to grin and bear the constant burning sensation and ruddy completion that followed. Now I go without and enjoy the tan and clear complexion.
Sam, I’m sorry to hear about your allergies. But you should still try to find a sunscreen that works for you. A tan may look good, bu it’s a sign that your skin is damaged. And this damage can cause premature aging and even cancer in the long run. 🙁
I am from India with darker skin tone and im used to HOT sun (90 F easy) from childhood and never really used sunscreen in India. I moved to the states when I was 22 and since the humidity is too low here compared to India, I started to feel a tingling burn when im outdoors for too long but I ignored it my first summer. I tanned completely after my first whole day out in sun (> 90 F) and the next day I used my friends sun screen and my tanning went from tingling to itchy skin and rashes in few minutes in the sun. By the end of the day I had burnt bloated lips and skin EVERYWHERE I applied the sunscreen especially legs and hands. It was RED, itchy and painful to the point where I can not even touch the skin anymore. It took at least a week to completely recover from it. I went to the doctors and they couldn’t help. They just said my skin is sensitive. It happened twice or thrice when I decided I will just let my skin tan than deal with painful days and nights. Its been four summers and I started to see dark circles around my eyes these days. I don’t want to do permanent damage especially past 25. I don’t want to go out with out sun screen this summer but I just dont know which one to use. and I am scared to try anything coz its painful and takes seconds to react and it spreads at least 1-2 inches around.
I do use a moisturizer by L’Oreal with spf 15. and has paraben. Its wonderful on my skin and Im not reactive at all. I gave the ingredient list below. I thought might give you an idea of what Im not allergic to. I know Im not so sensitive to sun coz, I am fine without sunscreen at least no reaction. I did try nutrogena 30 spf and banana boat sport 40 spf. Both gave me nightmares. I dont know if they are chemical/physical. (FYI) I noticed I am reactive to most of the lip colors. Not allergic to foundation etc, though I don’t use any when going in sun. I need help!
LOreal Moisturizer Ingredients
Active Ingredients: Octocrylene (7%), Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid (2%); Inactive Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Cyclopentasiloxane, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Octyldodecanol, Ammonium Polyacryldimethyl Tauramide, Triethanolamine, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cholesterol, Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5), Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid), Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Soybean Oil (Glycine Soja), Tocopherol (Pure Vitamin E), Polycaprolactone, Methylparaben,
Ingredients
Diazolidinyl Urea, Propylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Butylparaben, Fragrance
Abaps12, I’m so sorry to hear about your problem, how awful! First of all, I recommend you have an allergy test done so you can determine once and for all what the culprit is. Otherwise, it’s gonna be hard for me to recommend a sunscreen that won’t cause you problems. Still, I would suggest you look for an organic physical sunscreen (a physical sunscreen is one that contains Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide; all other sunscreen agents are chemical ones). Badger and Sunumbra are two brands you could try for instance. Hope this helps.
I went to my dermatologist recently because of an adverse reaction to what I believe was caused by 10% of octocrylene. He gave me some samples of cotz sunscreen with no chemicals. I absoloutly love it, I got the one with a sheer matte finish. You can order it 1-800-332-5536 orwww.cotzskincare.com its about $20.00 a tube and worth every penny. somedays, if i’m just staying home I just wear it instead of putting makeup on.
good luck
Blanche, I’m glad you found something that works so well for you, and thank you for sharing your experience with us!
Hello!
I’m actually a teen and I’ve had allergies with many sunscreens including Banana Boat, and Coppertone. It’s quite odd but Coppertone for children/babies works on me perfectly fine! I’ve been using the children’s version for years now. (: With the adult version I would get rashes.
Tiffany, I’m sorry about your allergies but it’s great that you’ve found something that works well for you, thanks for sharing. Sunscreens for babies and children tend to be much gentler than the adult versions. 🙂
I can’t seem to find any sun cream without having a very bad reaction swelling of the face,throat ears ,tightness of skin,redness,I burn easily.I tried all the hypo-allergenic types to no avail.I did a patch test years ago the results showed I had a reaction “Buty Methoxydibenzozymethane” The reactions have been so bad in the past that I found it less problematic to just cover up as best I can and not wear any cream however I still get caught as my children have to wear cream and when I come in contact with it my wrists blister badly.The only safe product I can use is vaseline as its paraben free but won’t protect from sun.Would you have any tips or suggestions?
Brian, I’m sorry to hear about your problem. Have you tried Vanicream Sensitive Skin Sunscreen? It is a physical sunscreen free of fragrance, PABA and parabens. Hope this helps.
Hi, do you know is Vanicream Sensitive skin sunscreen available from any pharmacies in Ireland or could I get a sample somewhere? I tried ordering it online from USA and it cost way too much due to shipping costs.If I was sure it worked I wouldn’t mind the cost but as I haven’t tried it yet.
Brian, I didn’t know you were based in Ireland. Unfortunately I don’t know of any store that sells it there. Maybe you could try ebay or amazon UK?
Got Vanicream Sensitive Skin Sunscreen last week from U.S.A. midway through the second Heatwave of the Summer in Ireland.I have tried it 4 times and I am really delighted to say that there has been zero reaction on my face and skin.It is the first time I have not had a reaction to sunscreen in over 20 years, you don’t know how good this is as I used always dread the arrival of good Summer weather as I would inevitably get burned or react by getting in an allergy from the kids cream.I was told by doctors that there was nothing that I could do only stay in out of the Sun so I was pretty well resigned after multiple failures over the years to just covering up and avoiding strong sunshine.Thank you so much for the work you are doing God bless you all!
Brian, I’m so glad to hear that. It must be such a relief for you! You’re welcome.