Dr Noreen Akram
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Sunscreen for Eczema and Protecting Yourself From UV Exposure.
Learn about the best sunscreens for eczema and how to protect sensitive skin from harmful UV rays.
What We'll Cover - The Best Sunscreens For Eczema.
Key Takeaways
Sunscreen is vital for eczema-prone skin as it protects against UV radiation that can worsen eczema symptoms.
Physical sunscreens, which reflect UV rays, are typically gentler and more suitable for eczema-prone skin than chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays.
Tinted sunscreens can both protect from UV rays and help conceal redness associated with eczema.
Moisturising ingredients in sunscreens, like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, can further fortify the skin's protective barrier.
Using the Proton Health app can guide you in choosing the right sunscreen according to your skin's unique needs.
Introduction - Best Sunscreens for Eczema
Finding the right skincare products for eczema can be a really big challenge. One essential product for everyone, especially those with eczema, is sunscreen. In this blog post, we'll discuss the best sunscreen for eczema, the differences between physical and chemical sunscreens, which SPF your skin needs and offer several recommendations to keep your skin protected from the sun.
The Importance of Sunscreen for Individuals with Eczema
Sunscreen plays a vital role in skin health for everyone, but it's particularly critical for individuals living with eczema. This skin condition causes the skin's barrier to become compromised, leaving it more vulnerable to external factors like ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Sunscreen serves as a shield, protecting the skin against harmful UV rays that can exacerbate eczema symptoms, cause sunburns, accelerate the signs of ageing, and elevate the risk of skin cancer.
When UV light penetrates the epidermis (the outer layer of skin), it can stimulate an inflammatory response, leading to redness, dryness, itching, and the potential worsening of eczema flare-ups. By using a sunscreen designed for sensitive or eczema-prone skin, you can help mitigate these damaging effects. It's important to choose a sunscreen that is hypoallergenic, free from alcohol and fragrance, and formulated for sensitive skin to prevent causing additional irritation.
Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreens
Understanding the difference between physical and chemical sunscreens can be vital when managing skin conditions like eczema. The two differ in their active ingredients and how they protect the skin from harmful UV radiation.
Physical Sunscreens
Also known as mineral sunscreens, physical sunscreens act like a shield on your skin. They contain mineral ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that form a barrier on the skin's surface, reflecting or scattering the sun's rays. Physical sunscreens are broad-spectrum, meaning they protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Notably, physical sunscreens tend to be gentler and less likely to irritate sensitive or eczema-prone skin, making them a preferred choice for individuals with these skin conditions.
Here are some examples of physical sunscreens that may be suitable for people with eczema:
Chemical Sunscreens
On the other hand, chemical sunscreens contain organic compounds such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone. These ingredients absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.
While chemical sunscreens can offer effective protection and tend to be easier to apply due to their lightweight texture, they may cause skin irritation, particularly for those with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Therefore, if you have eczema, it's generally advisable to opt for physical sunscreens instead.
Tinted Sunscreens and Their Benefits
Tinted sunscreens are a relatively recent addition to the world of sun protection. They offer the same protective benefits as regular sunscreens, either physical or chemical, but with the added advantage of a tint that can help even out skin tone, cover minor blemishes, and provide a light, natural-looking coverage.
For those with eczema, tinted sunscreens can be particularly beneficial. Not only can they conceal redness associated with eczema, but many tinted sunscreens also include nourishing and hydrating ingredients that can help soothe the skin.
In choosing a tinted sunscreen, opt for mineral-based formulations to reduce potential irritation. A couple of examples are:
In summary, understanding the different types of sunscreen can make a significant difference in managing eczema. It's essential to select the one that provides robust sun protection and suits your skin's unique needs.
Importance of Broad Spectrum Protection
When selecting the best sunscreen for eczema, it's essential to choose a product that offers broad-spectrum protection. Broad-spectrum sunscreens shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn, premature ageing, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Individuals with eczema, in particular, should prioritise broad-spectrum protection to minimise skin irritation and maintain a healthy skin barrier.
The Role of Moisturising Ingredients in Sunscreen
Selecting a sunscreen with hydrating properties is another crucial factor when managing eczema. Given that eczema-prone skin tends to be dry due to a faulty skin barrier, additional moisturising ingredients can help to replenish and lock in moisture, further fortifying the skin's protective barrier.
When choosing a sunscreen, look for the following skin-nourishing ingredients:
Glycerin: This is a humectant that draws water from the deeper layers of skin and the environment into the surface layers of the skin, improving hydration.
Hyaluronic Acid: Known for its capacity to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, hyaluronic acid is a potent hydrator that can boost the skin's moisture content.
Ceramides: These are lipid molecules naturally found in high concentrations in the skin's outer layer. They play a key role in maintaining the skin's barrier and retaining moisture.
Niacinamide: This form of vitamin B3 has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and irritation, while also strengthening the skin barrier.
Squalene: This naturally occurring lipid helps to hydrate the skin and strengthen the skin's barrier, preventing moisture loss.
These ingredients can collectively aid in soothing the skin, enhancing hydration, and reinforcing the skin's natural defence barrier, thus decreasing the likelihood of eczema flare-ups.
Water-Resistant Sunscreen and Its Importance
For individuals with eczema who enjoy swimming or engage in water-based activities, a water-resistant sunscreen is an essential part of their skincare routine. Water-resistant sunscreens maintain their protective layer on the skin for a while even when submerged in water, shielding your skin against harmful UV rays.
However, water resistance doesn't mean the protection is permanent. It's vital to reapply sunscreen after getting out of the water or after extensive sweating, even if the sunscreen is labeled as water-resistant.
Sunscreen Selection for Children with Eczema
Children with eczema require careful selection of sunscreen. The optimal sunscreen for children with eczema would be a product specifically formulated for sensitive skin, free from potential irritants such as fragrances, dyes, and alcohol.
Paediatric dermatologists often suggest physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for children since these ingredients are generally gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation. Look for a product with an SPF of 30 or higher for best protection, and make it a point to apply sunscreen to your child's skin 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Remember to reapply every two hours or after any activities involving water or causing sweating.
Exploring Sunscreen Alternatives
For those who find that traditional sunscreens may still be a bit harsh on their eczema-prone skin, considering sunscreen alternatives can be a smart move. Tinted, mineral-based sunscreens offer a dual benefit: they provide the required physical sun protection, while their tint can help even out skin tone, concealing the redness and inflammation that often come with eczema.
In addition, there are mineral makeup products on the market that include SPF in their formulation, adding an extra layer of sun protection, particularly useful for protecting eczema-prone facial skin. Always ensure to select products labeled hypoallergenic and free of known irritants, as these are most likely to respect the delicate balance of your sensitive skin.
Remember, even while exploring alternatives, it's essential not to compromise on the core purpose: robust protection against harmful UV rays. Hence, always verify that your alternative provides an SPF level of 30 or higher.
Selecting the Appropriate Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and Application Tips
SPF is a sunscreens sun protection factor. This is how effective a sunscreen is at blocking out the suns ultraviolet rays and the higher the SPF, the better. In essence, SPF really is your BFF.
An effective sunscreen should have an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of UVB rays. While higher SPF sunscreens offer more protection, no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays. Therefore, it's essential to reapply sunscreen every two hours and immediately after swimming or sweating.
It's recommended to apply a 'shot glass' amount (about two tablespoons) of sunscreen to the exposed areas of the body and a 'finger length' amount to the face and neck. Ensure that all exposed skin is evenly covered, including often-missed spots like the back of the neck, ears, and tops of feet.
Sunscreen products come in various forms - creams, lotions, sprays, balms, and sticks. Choose one that you find comfortable on your skin and easy to apply. For those with eczema affecting the lips, consider a lip balm with SPF protection to prevent dryness and cracking.
In addition to applying sunscreen, consider these pro tips to further safeguard your skin against UV damage:
Avoid Tanning Salons: The UVA radiation in tanning beds is up to three times more intense than the UVA in natural sunlight, increasing the risk of skin cancer and accelerating skin ageing.
Wear UV Blocking Sunglasses: Protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them by wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Invest in Sun Protective Clothing: Look for clothing with a Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. A UPF of 50 allows just 1/50th of the sun's UV radiation to reach your skin.
Incorporating these strategies into your daily routine will not only help to manage eczema symptoms but also contribute to your overall skin health and longevity.
Extra Precautions To Protect Yourself From The Sun
Incorporate Sunscreen into Your Daily Routine: Make sunscreen application a part of your daily skincare regimen. This remains crucial even when staying indoors, as UV rays can penetrate windows. Opt for a hypoallergenic sunscreen to prevent skin irritation.
Cover Up on High UV Index Days: Use clothing as a shield against the sun on high UV index days. A wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and a long-sleeved shirt can provide adequate coverage.
Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Stay indoors or in the shade between 11 am and 4 pm when UV radiation levels are at their highest.
Incremental Sun Exposure: Start with short, daily exposures to the sun and gradually increase the duration. This allows your skin to adapt and helps you gauge your skin's reaction to sun exposure.
Avoid Tanning Salons: The concentrated UV radiation used in tanning salons can severely worsen eczema symptoms. It's best to avoid them altogether.
Invest in UV-Protective Clothing: UV-protective clothing offers an additional layer of sun protection. Look for garments with a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating.
Choose High-SPF Sunscreen: Select sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 30 for more comprehensive protection against UV radiation.
The Proton Health App: Your Partner in Skin Health
With the Proton Health app, you gain access to real-time environmental updates on UV radiation and temperature. This crucial information enables you to anticipate sun exposure in advance and take necessary precautions to shield your skin.
Our app isn't just about informing you, but also about helping you take action. One of its core features includes personalised skincare product recommendations. Based on your unique skin type and symptoms, the app will guide you towards the most compatible and effective products, including sunscreens tailored for eczema-prone skin.
But it doesn't end there. As a Proton Health app user, you also gain exclusive access to discounts with our partner brands, offering you cost-effective solutions for high-quality skincare.
Whether it's understanding the day's UV index, finding the perfect sunscreen, or uncovering new ways to manage your eczema, the Proton Health app is your comprehensive guide to skin wellness. Harness the power of personalised data and take control of your skin health journey today.
Summary
Navigating the world of sun protection with eczema can be challenging, but it's not an impossible task. Understanding your specific skin needs and what to look for in sunscreen products is the first step towards effective sun protection.
Emphasise on physical sunscreens that contain minerals such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for their gentle, yet effective, protective properties. Additionally, it's essential to select a sunscreen enriched with moisturising ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, and squalene to hydrate and strengthen the skin's natural barrier. Don't forget to opt for a high-SPF, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free sunscreen to avoid triggering eczema flare-ups.
Also, remember to incorporate strategies like wearing UV-protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours, and applying sunscreen daily, even when indoors. These steps can help minimize UV exposure and safeguard your skin health. Lastly, consider tools like the Proton Health app, which provides real-time environmental updates, personalised skincare product recommendations, and exclusive discounts to support you in managing your eczema effectively.
The journey towards finding the best sunscreen for eczema might take some trial and error, but with the right information and resources, you can make informed decisions that benefit your skin health. So, whether you're lounging at the beach or going for a stroll, remember that your skin deserves the best protection.
