We all know the dangers of sun exposure, and as summer is officially upon us, we’ll find ourselves throwing sunscreen into our beach bags and slathering its protection all over our bodies as a matter of course, but can you be allergic to sunscreen?

Most of us take it for granted that we can stay out in the sun and not get burned because we’ve used sunscreen. But many individuals suffer from allergies to sunscreen, making it difficult to be out in the sun with the proper protection from harmful rays.

Sunscreen allergy symptoms include an itchy skin rash, and blisters. Risk factors for having a sun allergy include having a chronic sun-related skin condition (such as sun-damaged skin), having atopic dermatits, applying sunscreen to damaged skin, and having an outdoor occupation.

Sunscreen allergies are caused by reactions to chemicals in the sunscreen, and fall into two main categories: contact dermatits, which occurs when the sunscreen touches the skin; and reactions that occur in combination with UV exposure after sunscreen is applied. This latter type of reaction is called a photoallergic or phototoxic reaction.

While sun avoidance is an obvious way to keep away from both sun exposure and sunblock allergy reactions, it is not always a desirable, or possible, option. Instead, choose suncreens like Vanicream Sunscreens, which contain active ingredients that are both non-toxic and effective, even for those with sensitive skin.

In fact, Vanicream Sunscreen is an excellent sunscreen choice for everyone; even if you’re not allergic to the chemicals found in most sunscreens, we can all benefit from living more chemical-free lives.