Side effects of sunscreen

Sunscreens are protective, but they also have some side effects to keep an eye out for.
Side effects of sunscreen

Allergic reaction Illustration. Sunscreen contains chemicals that can irritate the skin, such as redness, swelling, irritation, and itching. Some people experience severe allergic reactions, rash and intense itching. This allergic reaction can be caused by chemicals found in sunscreens like perfumes and preservatives. PABA, short for para-aminobenzoic acid, is one of the most common ingredients found in sunscreens because it effectively absorbs ultraviolet rays but can also cause allergic reactions. As a result, many reputable sunscreen brands have removed this substance from their products. Sunscreen can make acne worse Certain chemicals in sunscreen products can make acne-prone skin worse. To get rid of this side effect of sunscreen, you can choose a non-acne-causing, non-greasy sunscreen, and should choose sunscreens for all skin types. Eye irritation Sunscreen that gets in your eyes can be painful and irritating. This can also cause eye burns and temporary sensitivity to light. Some people claim that chemical sunscreens can also cause blindness. If sunscreen gets in your eyes, rinse with cool water or see a doctor. Causes a rash Sunscreen can cause a rash in people with sensitive skin. Ideally, you should have a skin exam before choosing to buy a sunscreen product. May cause pain in hairy areas In areas like your underarms, you should use a gel instead of a sunscreen to avoid pain. Sunscreen can dry out the skin Many people experience dry skin after applying sunscreen. If you experience this, consider changing the type and consult your pharmacist for the best post-sun care skin care method. How to choose the right sunscreen People should use sunscreens that are free of the chemicals above and are composed of titanium and zinc. These substances form a strong chemical barrier to prevent UV rays from damaging the skin. Nor can zinc and titanium penetrate the skin, causing serious health problems. If possible, choose sunscreens made with natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and carrot oil. These products usually have a sun protection rating of SPF 30 or higher. People should use sunscreens that are free of the chemicals above and are composed of titanium and zinc. How to use sunscreen for good? Most people use sunscreen for fear that sun exposure will cause cancer. In fact, only 10% of skin cancers are related to UV rays. Even studies have shown that proper sun exposure can help prevent the development of skin cancer. Patients with malignancies are more likely to survive when they are exposed to the sun. Therefore, people do not have to overdo sunscreen all the time and should not apply too much. Emmanuel Abraham, a biomedical researcher at Bumrungrad International Hospital (Bangkok, Thailand), said sunlight is a rich source of vitamin D. This substance helps prevent certain bone diseases, muscle weakness, multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes. The skin is starting to turn pink, which is a sign of sun damage. If this happens, go to a shady spot as soon as possible or apply sunscreen containing compounds that are not harmful to your health. Another effective way to protect your body from sun exposure is to wear a hat and long clothing.