#217: Shocking Facts about Using Sunscreen when you have Dry Eyes
Today we're diving into an important topic: sunscreen. As a dry eye specialist, you might wonder why I'm discussing sunscreen. The reason lies in a condition called ocular rosacea, which involves irregular blood vessels around the eyelids, leading to eye dryness. This condition is closely associated with facial rosacea, making patients more sensitive to the sun. Treatments for facial rosacea, such as intense pulsed light (IPL), require careful post-treatment sun protection.
To help us understand the importance of sunscreen and the differences between types, I've invited Rachel Downey, a health and wellness advocate with Crunchi. When browsing the sunscreen aisle, Rachel understand how overwhelming it can be to choose the right product. Here's what you need to know:
What's the Difference between Chemical and Mineral Sunscreen
The main distinction to understand is between chemical and mineral sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens use synthetic ingredients that absorb into your skin along with UVA and UVB rays. These ingredients, like oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been shown to harm coral reefs and may pose health risks. Given the sensitivity of your skin after treatments like IPL, chemical sunscreens could cause irritation and burning.
On the other hand, mineral sunscreens use ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These sunscreens sit on top of the skin and reflect UVA and UVB rays rather than absorbing them. While they used to have a reputation for leaving a white residue, advancements in technology have made them more absorbent and easier to apply. Non-nano formulas are preferred because they stay on the skin’s surface, providing effective protection without being absorbed into the body. Using mineral sunscreen not only helps protect sensitive skin but also aids in preventing wrinkles by reducing UV light exposure.
Why is it Important to have a Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
When shopping for sunscreen, look for broad-spectrum protection to guard against both UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning rays). An SPF of 30 to 50 is ideal. Higher SPFs don’t offer much additional protection and still require reapplication every hour and a half. Frequent burns increase the risk of melanoma, a preventable cancer if proper precautions are taken, such as wearing hats, sunscreen, SPF clothing, and staying in the shade.
Wearing Sunglasses is Equally Important
Additionally, wearing UVA and UVB blocking sunglasses is crucial. The skin on the eyelids is a common site for skin cancer on the face, so while it’s not common to put sunscreen on your eyelids, sunglasses can be very protective.
Wear Sunscreen Every day of the Year
Remember that UVA rays penetrate through glass and clouds, so sunscreen or sunglasses are important even on cloudy days. Avoid aerosol sunscreens due to the risk of inhalation and uneven application. A lightweight, rub-in sunscreen is safer and more effective.
Understanding the importance of sunscreen and making informed choices can significantly impact your skin and eye health. If you like the way Rachel explains how best to keep our eyes and skin healthy with non-toxic ingredients, don't miss her blog on eliminating toxins from your personal products here. And, download Rachel's guide to eliminating toxins here. Stay tuned for more tips on eye health and wellness in our next episode.
