SUN SCREENS AND INGREDIENTS
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Some people find that sunscreens can make their eczema worse. When you chose a sunscreen you will need to think about the same things as you would when choosing an emollient. You should always be careful and make sure that you test any new sunscreen before applying it to the whole of your body. Apply a small amount to the inside of the arm and wait 24 hours before using all over the body. If the skin becomes red and/or itchy do not use the sunscreen, but ask your pharmacist, nurse or doctor for further advice.
Sunscreens are made up of chemical absorbers, physical reflectors or a
mixture of both.
Chemical absorbers penetrate the skin and allow some UVA light to get to the skin but are a potential irritant.
Physical blockers such as titanium dioxide reflect the UVA, UVB and infra-red rays. They do not penetrate the skin and are therefore less Irritating. However, one drawback of titanium dioxide is that it tends to leave a white sheen on the skin, which may not be cosmetically acceptable.
Preservatives
Most sunscreens contain preservatives but one chemical in particular may cause an allergic reaction.
Methyldibromoglutaronitrile

This is a chemical found in a number of sunscreens which has caused an increase in allergic reactions in recent years. Typical reactions to the chemical are swelling, itching and acute dermatitis, which could be very painful. Products that are free from this chemical include:
Bergaderm Sunscreen mousse 12/20/30 UVA UVB
E45 Sun Lotions
Sunsense range of sun protection
Vichy Capital Soleil SPF60
Sunscreens on prescription are usually only prescribed for patients diagnosed with photo dermatosis/polymorphic light eruption (sun sensitivity). Prescribing sunscreens for eczema will usually be at the nurses/GP’s discretion.









On parts of the skin that are not covered remember to apply a high factor sunscreen, atleast factor 15, and reapply every two hours.
Whilst every effort has been made to provide accurate information in the following list, manufacturers may change their ingredients and you are advised to check the product contents on the packaging before use, or speak to your pharmacist regarding the contents.
Disclaimer
These details are provided only as a general guide. Individual circumstances differ and the National Eczema Society does not prescribe, give medical advice or endorse products or treatments. We hope you will find the notes helpful but they do not replace and should not replace the essential guidance, which can be given by your doctor.
©National Eczema Society 2007