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Seeking Suncream Recommendations for Eczema Management

3/30/2025, 8:20:17 AMMale25-34

Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for help regarding my 2-year-old daughter who suffers from eczema. Her condition is typically under control, but we notice flare-ups, particularly on her face, when she uses sunscreen. Her eczema tends to react adversely to oral non-IgE mediated allergens like soy and egg. I have attempted several products, including Altruist, Sunsense, and La Roche-Posay, but each has caused irritation. At the moment, we’re applying Zero Base as a moisturizer on her face and Epimax on her body. If anyone has suggestions for alternative sunscreens that might be suitable for a young child with sensitive skin, or tips on managing facial eczema, I would greatly appreciate it. I’ve made an appointment with our doctor, but it’s a couple of weeks away. Thank you in advance for your assistance!

ArthritisLupusRheumatology

Answers (1)

Cony

3/30/2025, 8:20:32 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you are seeking safe and effective sunscreen options for your daughter’s sensitive skin while managing her eczema, especially following reactions to previous products. The good news is that there are sunscreens formulated for sensitive skin that may be more suitable for her condition.

Sunscreen Suggestions for Eczema:

  1. Mineral-Based Sunscreens: Look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these physical blockers are less likely to irritate sensitive skin compared to chemical sunscreens. Brands such as Blue Lizard, Badger, or Thinkbaby often received positive feedback for their gentle formulations.

  2. Fragrance-Free Options: Ensure the product is labeled as "fragrance-free" and "hypoallergenic." This can help minimize additional irritation.

  3. Specific Formulations: More medical-grade or pediatric formulations, such as Aveeno Eczema Therapy, may provide the soothing properties your daughter needs while also offering sun protection.

Tips for Managing Facial Eczema:

  • Patch Test New Products: Before applying any new sunscreen, perform a patch test on a small area of her skin to monitor for any adverse reactions.
  • Moisturize Before Sunscreen: Apply a suitable moisturizer (like Zero Base) before the sunscreen to help create a barrier and reduce irritation.
  • Limit Sun Exposure: When possible, seek shade or dress her in protective clothing that covers her skin during peak sun hours, as this may reduce the need for sunscreen.

Immediate Next Steps:

  1. Choose a mineral-based sunscreen that is fragrance-free, focusing on brands known for their gentle formulations.
  2. Patch test any new product on a small area of her skin at least a day before use.
  3. Continue moisture management by applying her current moisturizers before sunscreen, ensuring the skin stays hydrated.

Your doctor’s appointment will provide further guidance and may offer additional options specifically for her sensitivities, but these initial steps should help ease your daughter's situation while you wait. Remember, if any product causes severe irritation, discontinue its use immediately. If you have more questions or need additional support, feel free to reach out!

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