Skin Is Getting Sunburned Even After Applying Sunscreen? Some Experience Eye Irritation, Others Get Rashes — Scientists Reveal The Real Reason.
Ushnish Samadder | May 22, 2025, 15:45 IST
( Image credit : Freepik, Timeslife )
According to a recent study, almost 80% of sunscreens on the market don't offer enough protection. Scientists caution that many of these products contain dangerous chemicals in addition to performing poorly. Serious questions concerning the safety and efficacy of sunscreens were raised when tests on different samples revealed ingredients that could irritate skin, cause rashes, or even cause discomfort in the eyes.
Sunscreen is the preferred shield from intense sunshine and scorching heat. With the mercury levels rising, walking out in the sun without sunscreen can seriously harm the skin from toxic UV rays. Sustained exposure usually causes sunburn, dark spots, and long-term skin problems. It is for this reason that sunscreen is highly suggested to avert 'sunburn' and ensure the safety of the skin. But what if the same sunscreen that is supposed to protect us has toxic chemicals in it? New studies have come up with alarming alerts. Researchers have cautioned that close to 80% of sunscreens currently found in the market do not offer adequate protection. More tragically, most of these are chemical-based products that can potentially cause damage to the skin. Sunscreen samples underwent tests and were found to contain substances that could trigger allergic reactions, rashes, and other skin issues. Rather than provide protection, such sunscreens become potential health hazards, particularly for sensitive skin. Experts call for consumers to select sunscreens more wisely and read ingredient labels before application.
Researchers from the American Academy of Dermatology have also questioned the effectiveness of most sunscreens. A report on the matter has even been presented to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Based on the results, experiments performed on numerous individuals showed that the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) in most sunscreens is too weak to effectively block harmful UV radiation. The majority of the participants indicated that despite using sunscreen, their skin remained sunburned even in direct exposure to bright sunlight. Many others experienced dark spots and pigmentation issues. These observations indicate that many sunscreens on the market could be less protective than advertised, causing more skin damage instead of avoiding it.
Oxybenzone, a common chemical found in many sunscreens, has been linked to skin allergies and irritation, particularly around the eyes and face. Many people report a burning or stinging sensation shortly after application, which researchers attribute to this ingredient. Studies suggest that with regular use, oxybenzone can be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to hormonal disruptions. These findings have raised serious concerns about the long-term safety of sunscreens containing such chemicals.
To shield against unsafe sun exposure, numerous sunscreens have chemicals that can produce skin ailments when applied over extended periods of time. One such chemical is octinoxate, which can cause contact dermatitis, a skin ailment that results in irritation and redness. Homosalate is another dangerous ingredient in sunscreens, which, combined with retinyl palmitate, can result in skin rashes and inflammation upon prolonged exposure to skin.
Additionally, parabens are often included in sunscreens and other cosmetic products. These chemicals, also found in plastic products, are known to cause skin allergies and disrupt hormone levels, leading to potential long-term health issues.
Sunscreens can also be dangerous to children. According to Dr. Priyankar Pal, a renowned specialist, parents should always read the ingredients on a suncreen bottle before putting it on their child's skin. Sunscreens should never be applied to infants under six months old. Babies should be kept out of direct sun exposure altogether instead. If they must go outside, then clothe them in loose-fitting, full-coverage cotton fabrics for protection from the sun. When this is so, using sunscreen is not only unnecessary but also dangerous to their sensitive skin.
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Researchers from the American Academy of Dermatology have also questioned the effectiveness of most sunscreens. A report on the matter has even been presented to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Based on the results, experiments performed on numerous individuals showed that the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) in most sunscreens is too weak to effectively block harmful UV radiation. The majority of the participants indicated that despite using sunscreen, their skin remained sunburned even in direct exposure to bright sunlight. Many others experienced dark spots and pigmentation issues. These observations indicate that many sunscreens on the market could be less protective than advertised, causing more skin damage instead of avoiding it.
Experiencing sunburn, even after applying sunscreen? Learn why your skin may still react, including factors like sunscreen application mistakes and individual skin sensitivities.
( Image credit : Freepik )
Which chemicals have been found in sunscreens?
To shield against unsafe sun exposure, numerous sunscreens have chemicals that can produce skin ailments when applied over extended periods of time. One such chemical is octinoxate, which can cause contact dermatitis, a skin ailment that results in irritation and redness. Homosalate is another dangerous ingredient in sunscreens, which, combined with retinyl palmitate, can result in skin rashes and inflammation upon prolonged exposure to skin.
Additionally, parabens are often included in sunscreens and other cosmetic products. These chemicals, also found in plastic products, are known to cause skin allergies and disrupt hormone levels, leading to potential long-term health issues.
Sunscreens can also be dangerous to children. According to Dr. Priyankar Pal, a renowned specialist, parents should always read the ingredients on a suncreen bottle before putting it on their child's skin. Sunscreens should never be applied to infants under six months old. Babies should be kept out of direct sun exposure altogether instead. If they must go outside, then clothe them in loose-fitting, full-coverage cotton fabrics for protection from the sun. When this is so, using sunscreen is not only unnecessary but also dangerous to their sensitive skin.
Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life!