Are You A Redhead Allergic To Sunscreen? This Is What You Should Do…

For redheads, sunscreen is the holy grail. SPF is one of the only items to actually block UVA/UVB rays and prevents nasty, painful burns. For some, sunscreen isn’t an option because they are allergic. Here are signs you’re allergic and what you should do if you’re in this dire situation: 

1. Here are the signs of a sunscreen allergy

Sunscreen allergies usually occur in those with sensitive skin, which is very common among redheads. Don’t get too worried because sunscreen allergies are pretty uncommon. Some think they’re allergic to all sunscreens, when in fact, they’re allergic to some of the main ingredients. Not all sunscreens are made equally, so if you know you have an ingredient allergy, make sure to check the label on your SPF products. If you’re unaware of an allergy, but are having some sort of irritation or allergic reaction, it might be just one of the ingredients in the particular sunscreen you’re using. 

Here are ingredients that are known to be in sunscreen and can cause intense allergies:

• Methoxycinnamate
• Benzophenone-2
• Benzophenone-3 (also known as PABA)

The best thing to do is perform a patch test to tell if a product will work for your skin. It’s suggested to perform the patch test on the forearm, back of legs and back of arms. These areas are some of the most sensitive parts of the body and will tell you (usually, right away) if a reaction is going to occur. If reactions continue to occur, consult a dermatologist.

2. This is what to use instead: 

In this situation, your mindset has to be: SPF is the safest option but “do what is best for your skin”. 

If you’re having a reaction to sunscreen, what can you do? Well, finding a sunscreen without the ingredient causing your reaction is priority number one. If you’re unable to do so or have multiple allergies with varies ingredients, wear UPF clothing, wear a wide-brim hat, and avoid direct sunlight. All of these non-sunscreen protection actions can all help to keep your skin safe. 

Do research and consult the HowtobeaRedhead.com for recommended sunscreens. All of our recommendations have been tested on a natural redhead, so you can find solace in the fact that someone just like you found great results with these items. See a full article of recommendations here. 

Rock it like a Redhead! 

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READ: 6 Facts About Sunscreen and Sun Protection for Redheads

READ: How Bad Is It For Redheads To Use Expired Sunscreen?