August 19, 2021

does atopic skin need specific sun protection?

Atopy is a skin disease that causes redness and itching. It is common in children, but also occurs in adults. Atopic dermatitis is long-lasting (chronic) and is often exacerbated periodically, so it is very important to use specific products for the care of this type of skin. Rocio Franco, R&D Technical Coordinator at Gisèle Denis gives us the best advice on how to protect atopic skin from sun exposure.

Everyone with atopic skin knows that finding effective, yet non-irritating skin care products can be a challenge. Sunscreen is no exception.

According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), people with this chronic skin condition can react negatively to different ingredients in sunscreen, hence the importance of choosing specific products that care for and protect atopic skin from sun exposure.

At Gisèle Denis we have developed a complete line of sunscreens for atopic skin, specifically formulated for sensitive or atopic-prone skin that protect and moisturize the skin without causing any type of irritation.

THE BENEFITS OF USING SUNSCREEN FOR ATOPIC SKINS

Sunburn compromises the skin barrier, a barrier that is already naturally compromised in people with atopic skin, so damage may be aggravated or may even lead to redness, flaking or swelling. Regular use of sunscreen prevents this from happening because, while the sunscreen itself does not act directly to strengthen the skin barrier, it protects the skin from sundamage. In addition, protection is essential for all skin types to prevent premature skin aging, to reduce the risk of skin cancer and to prevent skin dryness.

INGREDIENTS TO AVOID IN SUNSCREENS FOR ATOPIC SKIN

When suffering from atopic skin it is very important to use products that are specifically developed for this type of skin. More important than what to look for in a sunscreen, or any cosmetic product, is what to avoid. There are specific ingredients that cause breakouts such as the following:

- Fragrances: you should try to avoid fragrances as they can be irritating to people with sensitive skin. This also applies to natural fragrances, including essential oils, as they contain allergens.

- Alcohol: Alcohol, which is a very common ingredient in sunscreen products, can be irritating.

ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVES, AN EXTRA FOR YOUR SKIN

Antioxidant active ingredients provide extra protection to your skin against free radicals:

- Vitamin C: acts against free radicals and helps maintain the skin's optimal moisture level, while promoting a healthy, beautiful tan tone.

- Vitamin E: Vitamin E can relieve dryness, itching and flaking associated with eczema or atopic dermatitis.

Both ingredients are found in the Gisèle Denis range of sun care products.

HOW TO APPLY SUNSCREEN CORRECTLY

It is recommended that a generous layer of sunscreen be applied evenly to all exposed areas. Generally, most people apply 25 to 50 percent of the recommended amount. "It is important to remember to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas, including the ears, which are often overlooked. It should be applied to dry skin 30 minutes before exposure and reapplied frequently, at least every 2 hours, after towel drying, every bath or sports activity," states Rocio Franco.