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Photosensitivity

Managing photosensitivity with sunscreen products

Sunscreen products are a group of creams, lotions, gels and lip balms that are used to protect your skin from harmful light rays. The sun emits two types of ultraviolet light rays harmful to the skin: UVA and UVB. Sun protecting ingredients can be found in sunscreen products and some cosmetic products.

How do I select a sunscreen?

All sunscreens are rated with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) number. The SPF number tells you how long you can be exposed to UVB light (NOT UVA light) before you burn. An SPF of 15 means that you can be exposed to sunlight 15 times longer than unprotected skin before burning. Select a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.

Will my treatment make me more photosensitive?

Some medications can make your skin burn more easily. If you are taking any of these medications, select a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Chemotherapy drugs that can cause photosensitivity:

• 5-Fluorouracil (5FU)
• Dacarbazine (DTIC)
• Flutamide Interferon
• Methotrexate
• Tretinotin
• Vinblastine

Other drugs that can cause photosensitivity:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g.: Naproxen, Ibuprofen)
• Some antiemetic drugs (e.g.: Prochlorperazine)
• Sulfa antibiotics (e.g.: Cotromoxazole)
• Other antibiotics (e.g.: Ciprofloaxin)

Radiation therapy to areas of the skin exposed to the sun can also result in sunburn. If you have recently received radiation treatment to the head, neck or other areas of skin not normally covered with clothing, select a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

How do I use a sunscreen?

Select a sunscreen that protects you against UVA and UVB radiation. Different sunscreen products contain one or more chemicals to protect against UVA and/or UVB radiation. Ask your pharmacist for help to choose a suitable product for you.

Avoid contact with the eyes.

Sunscreens work best if they are applied 30 minutes to one hour before going out in the sun. Cover all skin that will be exposed to the sun.

Reapply the sunscreen every 2 hours, especially after swimming or if you are perspiring. A water-resistant or waterproof sunscreen may be a good choice if you will be swimming or perspiring heavily.

Sun protection for your lips is very important. A lip balm, with an SPF of 15 or greater should be applied to the lips 30 minutes to one hour before going out into the sun. Reapply at least once every hour while in the sun and after eating or drinking.

Lotion or cream sunscreens are recommended.

What if I have sensitive skin?

Some people are sensitive to certain ingredients in sunscreen products, and may develop skin rashes from sunscreen. Ask your pharmacist for help.

When using a new sunscreen it is a good idea to test it on a small area of the skin first. Check for redness and irritation at the site where the cream was applied. Wait at least 24 hours before using it on a large area of your body. Discontinue use of any sunscreen product if a skin rash or irritation occurs.

Select a sunscreen that is PABA-free. PABA is an ingredient in some sunscreen that can cause allergic reactions. If you are sensitive or allergic to artificial sweeteners, local anesthetics, sulfa antibiotics, oral hypoglycemic agents (for diabetes control), or other PABA-based sunscreens, you should avoid PABA-type sunscreen products.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, avoid alcohol-based sunscreens. If your skin is oily, an alcohol or gel-based product might be a good choice.

How do I protect myself from the sun?

Try to stay indoors between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. This is the time when the sun's rays are strongest and you have the highest chance of sunburn.

Remember if it's a hazy day and clouds cover the sun, you still need to protect yourself from the sun. The sun's rays can reflect off sand, water and pavement. Even if you are in the shade it is possible for as much as 80% of the sunlight to reach you.

Wear protective clothing. Long-sleeved shirts and pants provide better sun protection than shorts and sleeveless tops. Be sure your shoulders and back are covered. You should always wear a sunhat and it should be wide-brimmed to protect your ears and neck.

Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Select a pair that is treated to absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Ask your pharmacist or eye doctor to recommend a pair suitable for you.

Apply sunscreen to your skin 30 minutes to one hour before going out into the sun.

Avoid tanning salons and sunlamps since the rays emitted from these sources can also cause sunburn and premature aging.