Protecting Teen Skin: Tips for Parents on Sunscreen and Sun Sensitivity

As a parent or grandparent, navigating the world of skincare for teenagers can be a bit of a challenge, especially when medications enter the picture. Many common medications prescribed for teens such as Isotretinoin and other products for acne, can have a drying effect on the skin and make it much more sensitive to the sun. This increased photosensitivity can lead to a higher risk of sunburn, even when using sunscreen. It’s crucial to understand how to protect your teenager’s skin effectively, especially as we head into the sunnier months.

Understanding the Impact of Medications on Sun Sensitivity

If your teenager is taking medication that causes their skin to become more sensitive to the sun, it’s important to know that this isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it’s a significant risk factor for sunburn and long-term skin damage. Medications like these can make the skin more reactive to UV rays, meaning that even with regular sunscreen use, they might still burn more easily.

It’s important to remember that anyone can have a reaction to certain ingredients in sunscreens, especially since many sunscreens contain 20 or more ingredients. Often, it’s the preservatives or other added chemicals that cause issues. However, if you’re taking acne medication and experience redness or blotchiness, it’s more likely due to increased photosensitivity from the medication rather than a reaction to the sunscreen itself. In these cases, the heightened sensitivity to sunlight is the main concern, making sunburn a greater risk.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

When it comes to selecting sunscreen, the most important factor is to choose a broad-spectrum one with an SPF of 30+ or 50+. This will protect against both UVA, which is responsible for skin cancer and premature aging, and UVB which is responsible for burning. It’s also essential to reapply sunscreen frequently—every hour is ideal, or at least every two hours.

Teens might find that SPF 50 sunscreens can be greasier and less pleasant to apply, which might make them less likely to reapply as often or as thickly as needed. In fact, using an SPF 30 that they’re willing to apply regularly and in sufficient quantity is better than relying on an SPF 50 that they might avoid using or apply too thinly.

Practical Application Tips

Based on my own experience spending long hours in the sun, especially while on our boat, I’ve developed a routine that balances practicality with maximum sun protection. I would first apply a traditional sunscreen, wait 15 minutes for it to settle, and then apply a thick layer of mineral foundation makeup. This mineral makeup acts as a physical sunscreen, offering an additional layer of protection and extending the effectiveness of the sunscreen beneath it.

This method can be especially helpful for teenage girls who are outdoors for extended periods, like during sports or a day at the beach. For young men, however, the idea of applying a layer of makeup might not be quite as appealing—unless they’re looking for that extra edge in sun protection, of course! In that case, it might be time to start a new trend.

Affordable and Effective Sunscreen Options

One common misconception is that you need to spend a lot of money on sunscreen to get good protection. In reality, Australia has the highest sunscreen standards in the world, meaning that even sunscreens purchased at the supermarket are highly effective. There’s no need to go for the most expensive option—what’s more important is that the sunscreen is broad-spectrum and applied liberally and frequently.

Nighttime Care for Sun-Exposed Skin

After a day in the sun, your teenager’s skin will likely be craving moisture and hydration. A good night cream or moisturizer can help replenish the skin’s moisture barrier. If your teen is on a budget, a simple and effective option is coconut oil from the supermarket. It’s a great way to add moisture without breaking the bank, and the skin will love it after a long day outdoors.

Conclusion: Let’s Stay Connected

As parents and grandparents, our primary goal is to protect our teenagers as they navigate these formative years, and skincare is an essential part of that. If you have any questions or need further advice on sun protection for your teen, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you find the best solutions for your family’s skincare needs.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to consult with your GP or dermatologist for personalized advice tailored to your teen’s specific situation.