Yes, you might get a rash from sunscreen.
One of the most annoying, though, has to be developing a rash from sunscreen.
But the question is: What sunscreenshouldyou use if you have reactive skin?
Keep reading to learn more.
What causes a sunscreen rash?
Sunscreen rashes are a form of contact allergy.
board-certified dermatologist
Breakouts can commonly be because of other emollients, fragrances, preservatives, or other ingredients.
Its a delayed skin reaction that typically develops 12 to 72 hours after exposure, King says.
What does a sunscreen rash look like?
Sunscreen rashes can take on a couple of forms.
Most importantly, sunscreen rashes will only appear when sunscreen was actually applied.
Before tossing the rash-causing formula, though, Portela suggests scouring the label.
It is important to check the label and determine what kind of sunscreen you are using, he says.
In general, he says that chemical sunscreens tend to be more triggering than physical ones.
These physical (and reef-friendly!)
board-certified dermatologist
ingredients tend to be gentler, which is why theyre often found in baby sunscreens.
How long does it take for a sunscreen rash to go away?
Sunscreen rashes can disappear within days to a couple of weeks.
If your skin is particularly itchy, she says to reach for OTC hydrocortisone.
As we mentioned above, chemical sunscreens tend to be more triggering than physical UV blockers.
I think this is one reason the chemical ingredients are more likely to cause reactions.
It has been linked to irritation, sensitization, and allergies, she reveals.
Because of this, you may want to only opt for mineral sunscreens.
Its very possible that your skin simply doesnt jive with the other ingredients in the overall formula.
The good news is that there are so manydermatologist-approved sunscreen formulasto choose from forfaceandbody.
Youll even find SPF inmakeupandskin-care products.
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