8 Side effects of using Sunscreen that you should be aware of

May 28, 2025

Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

An exclusive club just opened up in your city. The queue outside this club keeps getting longer by the minute, but not everyone can get in. At the door stands a sharply dressed bouncer, scanning the crowd, letting in the glam and the good vibes but turning away the troublemakers without a second glance.

Now, consider the skin as that exclusive club. And the bouncer? This is your sunscreen, the one keeping the sunlight robbers out, managing the lineup, and maintaining the order. But here's the catch: every now and then, even the best bouncers make mistakes. A sneaky one gets through the rope; a breakout here, a rash there, maybe even some congested pores or a surprise allergic reaction. You wake up the next day, not with a sunburn but with irritation that seems to come out of nowhere.

Sunscreen is definitely important. It’s the protective barrier between your skin and the harsh effects of the sun. But like any other protective barrier, it isn’t perfect.

In this blog, you’ll find out what really goes on behind the velvety ropes. Because when it comes to protecting your skin, you deserve a bouncer who knows exactly who to keep out.

Importance of Using Sunscreen

When it comes to dealing with the harmful UV rays of the sun, sunscreen is your skin’s first line of defence against them. This thing will keep you from getting burnt, getting premature wrinkles, and even from skin cancer. Be it dermatologists or beauty influencers, from daily sunscreen application, even indoors, everyone recommends it. While the benefits are immense and undeniable, one should also keep in mind the side effects of sunscreen in case of long-term or incorrect use.

Common Misconceptions about Sunscreen Safety

Sunscreen might be the one product in your skincare that you might think is completely harmless and has no side effects, but that’s where you’re wrong! Another misconception people tend to have about sunscreen is that only people with fair skin or people going to the beach need it. The truth is, no sunscreen is perfect and can trigger mild to severe reactions depending on your skin type and the ingredients used. You must also note that it is essential for everyone to wear sunscreen every day, no matter the colour of their skin. You must especially apply sunscreen if you are exposed to the sun.

8 Common Side Effects of Sunscreen

Not all sunscreens are bad or might cause reactions. It can change depending on the individuals or the ingredients. Here are 8 signs to look out for:

1. Allergic Reactions: The allergic reactions may be caused by the presence of ingredients like fragrances and preservatives in the sunscreen. It may become more common for people with sensitive skin or a history of allergies.

2. Acne Breakouts: Sunscreens that are greasy or heavy can end up clogging pores and causing acne. People with oily or acne-prone skin may suffer from this.

3. Eye Irritation: Applying sunscreen too close to your eyes or sweating it into your eyes can cause stinging, watering, or burning sensations.

4. Hormonal Disruption: Some chemical UV filters, like oxybenzone, have been found to copy or mimic the hormones in the body. This raises concerns about potential hormonal disruption, especially with long-term usage and prolonged exposure.

5. Contact Dermatitis: This refers to a condition in which the skin becomes inflamed after coming in contact with a particular substance. Sometimes, the ingredients present in the sunscreen might cause this, leading to blisters, itching, or dry patches.

6. Heat Rash: Using heavy or greasy sunscreens in hot, humid environments can block sweat glands, leading to a heat rash or prickly heat.

SPF 30 is written on the woman’s back, showing visible heat rashes.

7. Skin Discolouration: In some cases, especially on darker skin tones, certain physical sunscreens may leave a white cast or cause temporary discolouration. In rare cases, this may even trigger hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone.

8. Environmental Concerns: Now, this isn’t really a side effect that hampers you directly, but some chemical sunscreens contribute to coral reef bleaching and aquatic toxicity, prompting bans in places like Hawaii.

Chemical vs. Physical Sunscreen – Which is Safer?

There exist two primary kinds of sunscreens: chemical as well as physical (mineral).

Chemical Sunscreens: They transform the ultraviolet rays that are absorbed fully into heat energy. They usually have components like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. They continue to be effective. However, they can be more irritating to sensitive skin, in addition to creating a higher risk for hormonal disruption.
Physical Sunscreens: These end up reflecting the UV rays that fall on the skin’s surface. They usually contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Comparatively, they are safer, less irritating, and better suited for sensitive or acne-prone skin, although they may leave a white cast.

All things considered, physical sunscreens might be a better option, especially if your skin is sensitive or acne-prone, or if you are pregnant.

Sunscreen Ingredients to Watch Out For

While scanning the ingredient list, be wary of:

Oxybenzone: Linked to hormone disruption and allergic reactions.
Octinoxate: It is yet another UV filter that is under scrutiny for hormonal effects and environmental harm.
Fragrance/Parfum: This can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Preservatives (like parabens): Linked to hormonal disruption in some studies.

Always look for “non-comedogenic”, “fragrance-free”, and "broad spectrum" on the label for a safer experience.

how to apply sunscreen steps has been showed

How to Minimise Sunscreen Side Effects

Patch test first. Apply the sunscreen on your face or body if it is a new one; otherwise, you need to do a patch test.
Choose the best product: The sunscreens that work best depend on your skin type. Use a gel-based one for oily skin and a cream-based one for dry skin.
Apply correctly, without overuse: reapply after every two hours of sun exposure.
Check for expiration dates: Sunscreens are no longer effective, or they can become irritating if expired.
Cleansing: Gentle cleanser should be your nighttime cleanser so that the sunscreen washes off without clogging pores and causing breakouts.

Myths and Misconceptions about Using Sunscreen

Time to play the classic Myth vs. Fact game!

Myth: "Sunscreen indoors is not necessary."

Fact: UVA rays can pass through the windows and cause damage to the skin.

Myth: "Sunscreen is good for summer only."

Fact: UV rays exist throughout the year, even on cloudy or cold days.

Myth: "The higher the SPF, the better."

Fact: SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays; anything more than SPF 50 offers very little added protection and may create a false sense of security.

spf 30 face and body lotion is on white table

Conclusion

At the end of the day, your skin deserves a VIP experience: glowing, healthy, and well-protected. And while sunscreen is your go-to bouncer at the club doors, it’s up to you to make sure it’s doing its job right.

Not all sunscreens are created equal. Some come with side effects that sneak in unnoticed, from clogged pores and allergic reactions to hormone-disrupting chemicals. The trick is to know your skin, read your labels, and choose the formula that fits your needs best.

Opt for ingredients that are gentle, non-comedogenic, and preferably fragrance-free if you’re sensitive. Don’t be afraid to patch test, and remember: physical (mineral) sunscreens may be a better choice for sensitive skin, while chemical ones might suit those looking for a more lightweight feel.

Sunscreen is essential, but awareness is powerful.

Because when your skin is the club and your SPF is the bouncer, it’s not just about turning the bad guys away. It’s about knowing who you’re letting in.

So next time you step out into the sun, do it with confidence and the kind of protection that truly has your back.

Recommended Products by Blue Nectar:

Women's Eladi Face Day Cream with SPF 30 for Sun Protection (19 herbs, 50g)

Niraa Shea Butter SPF 30 Sunscreen Face & Body Lotion (12 Herbs)

Shubhr Coconut Sunscreen SPF 50 Face Lotion for Sun Protection (18 herbs, 50ml)

Shubhr Jasmine & Coconut SPF 30 Sunscreen for Women for Sun Protection (16 Herbs, 50g)

Related Articles:

Embracing the Sun: The Essence of Ayurvedic Sunscreen

All You Need to Know About SPF (Sun Protection Factor)

Why does my Sunscreen SPF 50 get runny?

References:

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/13/2/712