Most of our cult-favourite skincare actives come to us with a slew of benefits—anti-ageing, radiance-inducing, and spot-guzzling are a few of their sought-after propositions, and they deliver. But a lot of these actives work by removing the outermost layer of your skin, and this removal renders your skin even more sensitive than when you started—especially to the sun. Here are a couple of formulas that increase photo-sensitivity, and risks U.V-induced damage. Remember that this damage can manifest as spots, sunburn, wrinkles, and discolouration, and that’s why knowing about their side-effects is essential.
6 Formulas That Cause Sun Sensitivity
Retinol
There’s a reason why you’re advised not to employ Retinol into your day-time skincare regimen. This age-defying formula promotes the renewal of cells, and these newer cells are thin and fragile. Exposing them to sunlight can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sun-induced damage. Always layer Retinol onto your skin in the night.
AHAs
AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) include water-soluble compounds that work on the surface of the skin, and treat problems like dullness, texture, and lines. Some popular AHAs are citric acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid. These formulas work by exfoliating the surface, and revealing new skin-cells. Though this promotes the appearance of youthful-looking skin, it makes you vulnerable to sun-induced damage. You must layer your skin with sunscreen after applying an AHA.
BHAs
BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids) are oil-soluble compounds that plunge into the skin, cleanse the pores, and counter issues like acne and oiliness. Salicylic Acid is one of the most sought-after BHAs. Just like AHAs, these exfoliate your skin, and thus, increasing sun-sensitivity. Make sure you’re using a sunscreen when stepping out, and avoiding exposure to sunlight.
Citrus Oils
Citric Oils include grapefruit, lemon, and bergamot to name a few. These oils can be found in lotions and creams, and they’re known for their anti-acne and antioxidant properties; but they’re also photo-toxic. This means that they can cause redness, inflammation, and discolouration on the skin when exposed to sunlight. You can try formulas like niacinamide instead to avoid these side-effects.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is known for its skin-lightening abilities; but because it works by inhibiting the production of melanin, it makes your skin more susceptible to damage by the sun. You don’t have to filter this out of your routine as long as you’re avoiding the sun, and protecting your skin with sunscreen. But if you’re looking for alternatives, products with Kojic Acid can work as a substitute.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl Peroxide is another chemical that treats acne. Since it does this by clearing the uppermost layers of your skin of dead cells, it makes your skin sun-sensitive. Make sure you’re layering your skin with enough sunscreen.
Remember that though these formulas work wonders on the skin, they do pose risks if not used correctly.
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