Sun safety is paramount, especially when medications are part of your daily routine. Did you know that certain medications can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight, leading to a higher risk of sunburn, photo-aging, and even skin cancer?
In this guide, we explore the critical interplay between sun exposure and medications, highlighting the importance of daily sunscreen use and protective measures. By understanding how to protect your skin effectively, you can enjoy the sun safely while mitigating the risks associated with increased UV sensitivity.
Did you know?
- UVA is present all day and can penetrate through clouds, windows, and clothing.
- UVB is the main cause of sunburns and is strongest between 10 am to 4 pm.
- UVB rays cause sunburn, UVA rays cause early skin aging, and both UVA/UVB rays can cause cancer.
- Sun exposure increases your chances of sunburn, photo-aging, and skin cancer.
Sun & Medications
“Phototoxicity” is a dose related sunburn-like reaction and can happen to anyone with enough sun and drug exposure.
Common phototoxic medications include:
| Blood Pressure |
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| Anti-inflammatory |
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| Psychoactive |
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| Anti-histamine |
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| Cholesterol |
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| Diabetes |
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| Others |
|
Sunscreen Protection
Daily sunscreen use for 5 years can reduce the incidence of melanoma cancer by 50 – 75%. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, often caused by exposure to UV radiation from the sun. By making sunscreen a regular part of your routine, you help block these harmful rays, significantly reducing your chance of getting this serious condition. Protecting your skin with sunscreen daily is an easy step towards staying healthy and safe.
Look for a sunscreen that:
Contains an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30: SPF measures the level of UVB protection. SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, reducing sunburn symptoms and the risk of long-term skin damage.
Offers broad spectrum UV protection, which includes ingredients such as:
- Titanium dioxide: A mineral sunscreen ingredient that provides broad-spectrum UV protection. It’s less likely to cause skin irritation and is effective immediately upon application.
- Zinc oxide: Another mineral that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It's gentle on the skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
- Bemotrizinol (Tinosorb S): A chemical sunscreen agent that offers high photostability and protection from both UVA and UVB rays. It is effective and less likely to cause side effects from the medication.
- Drometrizazole trisiloxane (Mexoryl XL): Provides excellent UVA protection and is often used in combination with other UV filters to enhance sun protection.
- Bisoctrizole (Tinosorb M): A hybrid UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection, combining the benefits of both mineral and chemical sunscreens.
PABA and oxybenzone: Avoid ingredients such as PABA and oxybenzone, as they can cause allergic reactions and other side effects from medications.
And remember that:
Sunscreens labelled as “broad-spectrum” block both types of UV rays.
SPF is the amount of UVB protection a sunscreen provides.
The higher the SPF, the better the protection against sunburn.
When to Apply Sunscreen?
15 – 30 minutes before sun exposure: This gives your skin enough time to absorb the sunscreen and provide effective protection.
Every 2 hours: Sunscreen wears off over time, so reapply regularly, especially if you’re outside for extended periods.
After swimming or sweating: Water and sweat can wash away sunscreen, even if it’s waterproof. Always reapply after getting wet or sweaty to stay protected from harmful UV radiation.
How Much to Apply?
Just remember the “teaspoon rule” to ensure you’re using enough sunscreen!
Face and neck: Use 0.5 – 1 teaspoon. This covers your entire face and neck area, providing essential protection.
Arms, shoulders, and torso: Use 1 – 1.5 teaspoons. Spread this amount evenly across these areas for optimal coverage.
Legs and top of feet: Use 2 – 2.5 teaspoons. Legs and feet often get overlooked, but they need just as much care.
PRO TIPS!
Use protective clothing along with sunscreen to fully protect your skin:
Wear darker clothing: Darker colours offer better protection against the sun’s rays.
Don’t forget sunglasses: They can protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
Remember to apply sunscreen to often-forgotten areas:
Lips: Use a lip balm with SPF.
Ears: Apply sunscreen to the tops and backs of your ears.
Tops of your feet: These areas can burn easily, so don’t skip them.
By combining sunscreen with protective clothing, you can better shield your skin from the sun's harmful effects and reduce the risk of sunburn. If you do get sunburned, remember the best way to treat sunburn is to move out of the sun, cool the skin with damp cloths, and apply aloe vera or a gentle moisturizer.
References:
WRITTEN BY: Ashley Arsenault, 3rd-year pharmacy student at Sobeys Pharmacy in 2019
REVIEWED AND UPDATED BY: Mackenzie Hart, pharmacy intern at Lawtons Drugs in 2024
