4 Surprising Things That Can Make You Prone to Sunburn
July 28, 2021
Even if you take proper precautions in the sun – methodically applying SPF 30 sunscreen and limiting your hours outdoors in peak sunlight – you might still look as though you overdid it while trying to achieve the “perfect tan” from decades ago.
It can be puzzling to develop a sunburn when you think that you’re doing the right things to protect your skin. But certain medications, dietary supplements, personal-care products and foods may increase your risk of sunburn. “Knowing what substances you put into, or onto, your body may help you avoid future sunburn surprises,” says Monika Wolaniuk, D.O., a family medicine specialist with Hackensack Meridian Medical Group.
Be careful about spending time out in the sun when you use any of the following:
Medications which may increase the risk of sunburn
Some of these commonly used drugs, whether topical or ingested, may make some people more photosensitive:
- Antibiotics, such as tetracyclines
- Antihistamines
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Retinoids
- Hypertension medication
- Cholesterol-lowering medication
- Antifungal medication
- Coal and tar derivatives, such as medicated shampoo
- Oral contraceptives
- Hormone replacement therapy
Dietary supplements which may increase the risk of sunburn
- St. John’s wort
- Gingko biloba
Personal-care products which may increase the risk of sunburn
- Retinols
- Glycolic acid
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Topical vitamin C
- Perfumes or scented soaps
- Deodorants
- Certain sunscreens
Foods which may increase the risk of sunburn
- Artificial sweeteners
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Celery
- Carrots
- Dill
- Fennel
Ways to care for your skin when you may be prone to sunburn
If you develop a sunburn or rash after taking medication or using another product which may cause sun sensitivity, make an appointment with your doctor. The doctor can help you determine what may have caused the problem, then share recommendations to help you avoid sunburn going forward.
“You may be able to switch to a different medication, change the time of day that you take medication or simply be aware that you should stay out of the sun while you’re on the medication,” says Dr. Wolaniuk. “Sustaining less sun damage over your lifetime may help reduce your risk of wrinkles or skin cancer in the future.”
Your doctor may recommend that you:
- Limit the time that you spend in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., peak sunlight hours
- Wear long sleeves, pants and a wide-brimmed hat if you’re out briefly during peak hours
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply every 2 hours that you’re outdoors
- Gravitate toward sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
- Don’t use tanning beds or visit tanning studios
Next Steps & Resources:
- Meet our source: Monika L Wolaniuk, D.O.
- To make an appointment with Dr. Wolaniuk, or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.
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