Sunscreen for Eczema

For most people with eczema, summer is the time their skin can finally “take a break”. While the cold, wind and dry air can irritate atopic dermatitis in the winter, eczema usually calms down during the summer. But that doesn’t mean that all their worries are over. Atopic skin requires gentle care even in the summer. One of the most important components of protection and not to be missed is choosing a suitable sunscreen for eczema.

What should a sunscreen for eczema do?

• High protection factor: Sensitive eczema-prone skin needs reliable protection. Always choose a high SPF sunscreen, preferably SPF 50.
• Gentle ingredients: Both standard and children’s sunscreen for eczema should be hypoallergenic, preservative-free, colour-free and fragrance-free.
• Broad-spectrum protection: Broad-spectrum sunscreen for eczema captures both types of ultraviolet radiation – UVA (responsible for premature skin ageing) and UVB (responsible for tanning and burning).
• Mineral SPF: Mineral sunscreen is the most suitable form of protection for people with eczema. The mineral shield only works on the surface of the skin and reflects UV rays away, while a chemical SPF is absorbed, which may not always be well tolerated by hypersensitive skin.
• Water resistance: If you are planning to swim, make sure you choose a waterproof product. However, even this is not bulletproof – after drying off, re-apply it, whenever you get out of the water. If you are not planning to swim, then re-apply it at least every two hours.

For children and adults

Atopic skin should be protected against the sun not only in childhood but throughout life. Even if the dermatitis is in remission, appropriate care can help delay it further and reduce a flare-up. For this reason, you can find sunscreen for both children and adults with atopic eczema on the market.

Eczema and sunbathing: More tips for a carefree summer

The sun can soothe atopic dermatitis. However, the key is to have only small doses of sun exposure. Avoid direct sunlight altogether between 11 am and 3 pm – stay in the shade or, better still, indoors. Don’t spend too long in the sun, even outside this time. The skin can overheat and sweat excessively, which can contribute to itching and flare-ups of eczema.

Eczema sufferers are often recommended to take a holiday by the sea. But after you get out of the sea, rinse off with fresh water as soon as possible – if there are no showers on the beach, at least bring bottled water. Otherwise, the sea salt can really sting and irritate the skin.

Alongside sunscreen for eczema, wear suitable clothing. A hat, longer sleeves and long trousers are good for your skin, but sunscreen for atopic eczema should also be applied under your clothes. You should also make sure you are well hydrated – this helps you cool your body down properly. In the summer, cool your skin regularly from the outside – take lukewarm showers and reach for thermal water spray during the day, for example.

Choose from the best sunscreens for eczema that protect the skin effectively without irritation, and enjoy sunny days to the fullest! Or take a look at our other face and body products for eczema at Notino.