Eczema is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Those who have it are more prone to skin sensitivity and irritation, which means that protecting their skin from the sun is even more important. In this post, we will discuss the importance of sunscreen for eczema-prone skin and provide tips for choosing the right sunscreen.
First, it’s important to understand how the sun affects eczema-prone skin. Sun exposure can cause eczema to flare up, leading to redness, itching, and dryness. Sunburns can also lead to the formation of blisters, which can be painful and take longer to heal on eczema-prone skin. Even more dangerous is the increased risk to damage that can lead to skin cancer. Easy protection from the sun is the first step to cancer prevention.
Using Sunscreen to Protect Skin
To protect eczema-prone skin from the sun, it’s important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for sunscreens that are formulated specifically for sensitive skin or that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Physical sunscreens, which contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are also a good choice as they sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays. More on the different types of sunscreen here.
With that being said, when applying sunscreen to eczema-prone skin, it’s important to be gentle. Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic sunscreen and apply it in a gentle, circular motion. Pay special attention to areas that are more prone to eczema flare-ups, such as the face, neck, and hands.
A few of my favorite SPFs that can stay on my skin all day without irriation:
Wear Clothes that Cover Up
In addition to sunscreen, it’s also important to wear protective clothing and seek shade when possible. Choose long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Below are some of my favorite sun blocking products for playing in the sun:
In conclusion, sunscreen is essential for protecting eczema-prone skin from the sun’s harmful rays. By choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, being gentle when applying it, and wearing protective clothing, you can help prevent eczema flare-ups and protect your skin from further damage.
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