Some ingredients contained in cosmetics can interact with the sun and cause photosensitivity……
Photosensitivity is essentially the skin's reaction to exposure to the sun. It can be toxic or allergic, which means it can manifest, respectively, within a few hours of sun exposure or even several days later.
When cosmetics "react" to the sun!!
Photosensitivity is characterized by unusual inflammation or redness of the skin, which often looks like a sunburn. Πολλές φορές οφείλεται σε τοπικά προϊόντα που αλείφουμε στο δέρμα και αντιδρούν με τον ήλιο.
However, "this does not mean that the cosmetics you use are of poor quality or unsuitable for use", διευκρινίζει ο δρ Μάρκος Μιχελάκης, Dermatologist-Venoretologist at EDOEAP.
"These cosmetics can do wonders for the skin, but just to be used carefully to avoid the unexpected. Some, e.g., they may need to be used only at night before bed or you may need to avoid sun exposure for a few days after using them”.
Cosmetics with these ingredients can cause photosensitivity from the sun
Mr. Michelakis explains which ingredients present in topical cosmetics could cause photosensitivity and that is why we must be careful before sun exposure.
1. Retinol
It is also known as vitamin A. It is one of the most widely used active ingredients in cosmetics. It is known for its antiaging properties and its contribution to skin renewal. Retinol targets fine and deeper wrinkles, as well as enlarged skin pores. When used in the right way, stimulates skin renewal and collagen production, improving skin texture and tone. "The problem, regarding the sun, is that retinol encourages the production of new skin cells.
The new layer of skin that is created is very sensitive to the sun”, Mr. explains. Michelakis. "For this reason it is preferable to apply retinol products at night, before going to bed at night". If you use retinol for a long time, it is essential to thoroughly apply sunscreen to your skin, every time you are going to go outdoors. Be sure to reapply sunscreen every time 2 hours.
2. Citrus oils
The essential oils of orange, of lemon, of citrus, of grapefruit etc. are aromatic active ingredients, which can renew and improve the appearance of the skin. However, they contain certain substances that interact with the sun and cause a phototoxic reaction. This is manifested by redness, burn and skin pigmentation. Therefore, do not use when going out in the sun, moisturizing creams, serums and other cosmetics containing citrus oils as active substances.
3. Exfoliating agents
There are many substances used to exfoliate the skin. These include glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, salicylic acid and azelaic acid. All these acids remove dead cells, they hydrate the skin and make it look cleaner and younger. Some of them may also lighten acne scars. Because, Nevertheless, remove surface skin cells, expose the subjects to the environment, new cells. That's all, Nevertheless, They are, According to the above, very sensitive to the effects of UV and thus a photosensitivity reaction may occur. Take care, Well, exfoliate at the appropriate frequency (not over 1-2 times a week in the summer), preferably in the afternoon so that many hours can pass (over 12) until exposed to the sun. Be sure to also slather your skin with plenty of sunscreen with a high SPF.
4. Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is a substance used to treat skin discolorations, because it "lightens" the skin color. Care products that contain it, reduce the production of the natural pigment (melanin) on areas of skin with a darker tone (hyperpigmentation). The reduction in melanin locally leaves the skin more vulnerable to the effects of the sun's UV radiation. If you therefore have hyperpigmentation and apply products with hydroquinone, it is good that the area of the skin you are treating is not exposed to the sun.
5. Antibacterial agents
Topical treatments with products containing clindamycin or benzene peroxide as active substances are not cosmetics, but drug treatments that are usually given to fight acne.
However, their ingredients can cause dry skin, thus making the skin more vulnerable to the effects of UV. It is best to avoid these products a few hours before sun exposure, to protect your skin from photosensitivity manifested by hyperpigmentation.
"The above ingredients provide many benefits to the skin and there is no reason to remove them from one's routine. But you have to, especially in the summer months, be careful when using them and take intensive sun protection measures, so as to avoid the potential dangers of their interaction with UV", concludes Mr. Michelakis.
