People with neurodermatitis should take extra good care of their skin in summer. Due to chronic inflammation, the skin barrier is weakened, making the skin more sensitive to UV rays and their harmful effects.
In this article, you will find useful tips on how and with which sunscreen you can best protect your neurodermatitis-affected skin from the sun.
Contents:
1. Which sunscreen is suitable for neurodermatitis?
2. What else should I look for when buying sunscreen for neurodermatitis?
3. Which SPF is right for neurodermatitis and atopic skin?
4. Does the right sunscreen help reduce flare-ups?
Which sunscreen is suitable for neurodermatitis?
Unlike conventional chemical sunscreens, mineral UV filters, such as zinc oxide, do not penetrate the skin. They form a protective shield on your skin and reflect UV rays like a mirror. This eliminates the chemical effect deep within the skin cells, which is present in conventional sunscreens, and you are immediately protected after applying mineral sunscreens. In addition, mineral sunscreens have a low allergy potential due to the generally well-tolerated zinc and offer reliable broad-spectrum protection. It is important to know that zinc can have a slightly drying effect. Therefore, we recommend washing off the sunscreen in the evening and then nourishing the skin with a moisturizing basic cream.
What else should I look for when buying sunscreen for neurodermatitis?
Avoid sunscreens that could additionally irritate your neurodermatitic skin and cause skin irritations, such as products with perfume, hormonally active UV filters, or preservatives like parabens. You should also avoid ingredients with a high allergy potential, such as lanolin and calendula. It is best to look for labels like "for sensitive skin" or "sensitive." However, these terms are not protected, so even a sensitive product can sometimes contain perfume – a quick look at the ingredient list on the back of the product will help here.
Which SPF is right for neurodermatitis and atopic skin?
The goal is to protect your skin as best as possible from UV rays. You should look for broad-spectrum protection and a high SPF. We recommend our med Sun Balm SPF 50 for your face and our med Sun Milk SPF 50 for your body.
How can I reduce neurodermatitis flare-ups in summer?
By properly and continuously caring for your sensitive skin, you can strengthen your skin barrier and thus be less susceptible to external trigger factors. Heat and sweat can be such trigger factors. Therefore, in strong sunlight, you should seek a shady spot, wear light clothing, and ideally avoid direct sunlight. Sunscreen also helps protect you from UV rays in the shade, but you should wash it off in the evening and opt for your moisturizer instead.
Do you need more tips on neurodermatitis? Then feel free to check here.
Take care of yourself and your skin :) If you have any questions about neurodermatitis and sun protection, you can always contact us personally here.
O U R E X P E R T
Dr. med Michaela Hagemann I boep founder, doctor & 3-time mom
