Can acne treatments make my skin more sensitive to the sun? Which ones? And what should I do if I'm currently using these medications?
Yes, certain acne medications can absolutely make your skin more susceptible to the sun. Photosensitivity, or sun sensitivity, can be caused by a variety of different medications. Some of the worst offenders are:
- benzoyl peroxide, BenzaClin, Benzamycin
- Accutane (isotretinoin)
- Products containing alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, etc.)
- Antibiotics like doxycyline, metronidazole, erythromycin and Bactrim
- Retinoids like Retin-A, Differin, Tazorac, Ziana
When using these medications, you'll be more susceptible to sun burn and sun damage.
Certain treatment procedures can also increase sun sensitivity. This includes microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and some laser treatments.
Protecting your skin from the sun's rays is always important, but it becomes even more so when your acne treatments cause photosensitivity. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15 every single day. Choose a brand that is labeled oil-free and noncomdogenic or non-acnegenic, so it won't trigger more breakouts. Apply your medications first, and wait for 20 minutes or so to allow the treatment to dry completely. You can then apply your sunscreen over the top.
The sun also increases your risk of skin cancer and causes premature aging, so using sunscreen every day is a skin-healthy habit even if you don't have acne.
As much as possible try to stay out of the sun, especially during midday when the sun's rays are at their fiercest. If you're going to be spending the day outdoors at the park or by the lake, you'll probably want to wear a wide brimmed hat (at least 4 inches wide) as well as your sunscreen.
And tanning beds and booths are off-limits too. Contrary to what the nice lady at the tanning salon will tell you, tanning beds are just as damaging as the sun.
