6 Major Side Effects Of Sunscreen You Should Know About

The significance of sunscreen for maintaining skin health has been emphasized extensively. It acts as a protective barrier against the sun's harmful effects. It's highly recommended to never leave the house without applying sunscreen, and for good reason. Sunscreens not only shield the skin from sun damage but also help prevent premature aging and sunburn. However, is it truly the ultimate solution for all your skin concerns? Are there potential side effects of sunscreen? Unfortunately, there are.

If used carelessly, sunscreens can negatively impact your skin. The chemicals found in some sunscreens may not be skin-friendly. Today, we will discuss the harmful effects of sunscreen that you should be aware of.

# Potential for Allergic Reactions

The chemicals found in sunscreens can trigger allergic reactions in the skin, leading to symptoms like redness, itching, swelling, and rashes. This can also increase skin sensitivity. A common ingredient linked to allergic reactions is PABA (Para Amino Benzoic Acid). Additionally, certain preservatives and fragrances in sunscreens may cause irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin. It's essential to carefully check the ingredient list to avoid potential irritants.

Opt for sunscreens labeled "hypoallergenic," and consider performing a 24-hour patch test for added safety.

# Can Aggravate Acne

Using the wrong sunscreen can negatively affect your skin, especially if you're prone to acne. Greasy, oil-based sunscreens can exacerbate your condition, while certain chemical ingredients can irritate your skin, resulting in acne, redness, itching, and swelling.

To avoid this, select a sunscreen that suits your skin type, ideally one that is non-greasy and non-comedogenic. Avoid using body sunscreens on your face, as their thicker consistency can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

# Irritation in Hairy Areas

Sunscreen can irritate hairier parts of your body, leading to itchiness and redness, which may result in painful bumps and pus-filled hair follicles. Comedogenic sunscreens can irritate hair follicles and exacerbate these issues. Among the various textures available—gel, cream, lotion, spray, and ointment—gel sunscreens tend to be the least irritating and are the preferred option.

# Eye Irritation

Sunscreen should not be applied near the delicate eye area. If it accidentally gets into your eyes, it can cause irritation, pain, and sensitivity to light. Avoid applying sunscreen under or around your eyes, and if it does get in, rinse it out immediately.

# Potential Breast Cancer Risk

While sunscreen protects our skin from harmful UV rays, certain chemicals in sunscreens may pose cancer risks. Regular use can disrupt estrogen levels in the body, potentially leading to breast cancer. Additionally, an ingredient called retinyl palmitate (a combination of retinol and palmitic acid) can generate free radicals that harm the skin and cause DNA damage.

# Not Ideal for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is characterized by its tendency to react to various products, making sunscreen potentially problematic. The heavy and often harsh ingredients in sunscreens can lead to dryness, itching, swelling, and irritation for those with sensitive skin.

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