Can I use sunscreen if I have eczema?

What sunscreen is gentle for eczema prone skin?

Choose fragrance free rather than unscented: unscented products can contain fragrance that has been masked. Look for water resistance alongside SPF 30 or higher and broad spectrum protection, which covers UVA and UVB rays. For dry skin, a sunscreen labelled "moisturizing" or "dry skin" can help narrow your choices.12

The words "sensitive skin" can help narrow the shelf, but the front of the bottle is not the entire conversation. For sensitive or allergy prone skin, avoid fragrance, parabens and oxybenzone. For a child with eczema, the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance is another useful way to find suitable products.12

Is mineral sunscreen better for eczema?

Mineral sunscreen is a useful first choice, particularly if sunscreen stings or burns: choose zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as the only sunscreen filters. Those filters can also suit people with sunscreen allergy. The rest of the formula still matters, because fragrances and preservatives can cause reactions even when the sunscreen filters are mineral.23

A tinted sunscreen that matches your skin tone can reduce white residue, so sun protection need not announce itself before you do. Check that the tinted version also offers broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher and water resistance.2

How should I use sunscreen?

1. 1Apply sunscreen before going outside. Make daily application a habit when the forecast UV index reaches 3 or higher.
2. 2Apply a sufficient layer rather than a thin smear: too little sunscreen reduces the protection you get from the labelled SPF.
3. 3Reapply every two hours while outside. Use protective clothing as well as sunscreen.

Can sunscreen irritate eczema prone skin?

Yes. Sunscreen can cause irritation or allergic contact dermatitis, an allergic skin rash from something touching the skin. An allergic rash can appear where sunscreen was applied and sometimes spread elsewhere. In children with eczema, product reactions can take hours or days to appear, so an immediate lack of redness is not the whole picture.13

Stop using a sunscreen that causes a rash and ask a dermatologist about repeated reactions. Professional patch testing can identify an allergic ingredient; testing with light exposure can help when sunlight is involved. If you suspect sunscreen allergy, speak with your doctor before trying a small area test at home. A product that passes that test can still irritate.3

What about babies with eczema?

For babies younger than six months, use shade and clothing for sun protection.1