What is Oxybenzone?
Oxybenzone is a chemical compound which is the active ingredient in most over the counter sunscreens, personal care and other skincare products. This is a UV- ray blocker which is highly effective and decelerates the absorption of harmful UVA and UVB rays from human skin. Exposure to solar UV radiation leads to skin cancer. This is the reason Oxybenzone are designed to help prevent life-threatening skin cancers.
Oxybenzone Uses
Sunscreen lotions are used to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. They help in preventing sunburn and premature ageing i.e. wrinkles and leathery skin. Oxybenzone helps in decreasing the risk of skin cancer and also sunburn reactions caused by various medications.
The active ingredients in sunscreen work as absorbing ultraviolet radiation and prevent it from reaching the deeper layers of the skin.
Oxybenzone Side Effects
The ingredient present in the sunscreen lotion can make the skin more sensitive. If in any case the sunscreen lotion will cause redness or irritation then immediately wash it off and avoid using it. There is very less chance of getting any kind of serious allergic reaction. But if your body shows any of the side effects try to consult with your doctor immediately:
A doctor advised you to take the medicines by seeing your problems and the benefits of this medicine are greater than the side effects. Majority of the people who use this medicine don’t show any side effects. Get medical help immediately if you get any serious Oxybenzone side effects.
Precautions
Before using Oxybenzone talk to your doctor if you’re allergic to any of the sunscreen lotion or cream. The product may contain some inactive ingredients which can cause allergic reactions to other problems. Talk to your doctor if you are using any medications like OCP (vitamins and herbal supplements), allergies, pre-existing diseases and any health conditions like (Pregnancy, surgery, etc)
How to use Oxybenzone?
Sunscreens are used on the skin only. Follow all the directions mentioned on the package. Apply sunscreen to the exposed area before 30mins of sun exposure 30 grams is enoughto cover the entire body. If you are staying outside for a longer time apply the lotion for every 2 hours.
If you are applying lip balm form, apply it to the lip area only.
The spray forms are flammable. If you’re using the spray avoid smoking when applying this medication and don’t use it or store it near heat or open flame.
When applying sunscreen in the face be careful to avoid contact with the eyes. If the sunscreen gets in your eyes rinse your face thoroughly with water
Rinse it thoroughly to avoid any irritating skin. Don’t apply sunscreen on infants younger than 6 months unless the doctor told you to do.
If you’re getting any serious sunburn and you think you’re having serious medical problems seek for medical attention immediately.
Missed Dose
The skipped dose causes no problem. But with some medication, it won’t work if you don’t take the dosage on time. If you miss a dose some sudden chemical change may affect your body. In some cases, your doctor would advise you to take the prescribed medicine as soon as possible if you have missed the dose.
Overdose
Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed Oxybenzone tablets there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body’s functions. Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.
Warnings for some serious health conditions
Pregnancy
Oxybenzone allows the skin to absorb chemicals in the bloodstream. A study has shown that pregnant women who use sunscreen lotion absorb enough chemical which increases the risk of birth called Hirschsprung’s disease.
Breastfeeding
Oxybenzone can get into breast milk and can directly expose to a newborn. Before using Oxybenzone try to consult your doctor.
Storage
Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. The exposure of medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.
Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Before taking Oxybenzone consult your Doctor. In case if you face any problems or get anyside effects after taking Oxybenzone rush immediately to your nearby hospital or consult your doctor for better treatment. Carry your medications always in your bag while travelling to avoid any immediate emergencies. Follow your prescription and follow your Doctor advice whenever you take Oxybenzone.
Oxybenzone vs. Avobenzone
Oxybenzone |
Avobenzone |
|---|---|
| Oxybenzone is a chemical compound which is the active ingredient in most over the counter sunscreens, personal care and other skincare products. | It’s a chemical sunscreen agent which helps in protecting from both UVA and UVB rays. |
| Sunscreens lotions are used to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. They help in preventing sunburn and premature ageing i.e. wrinkles and leathery skin. | Avobenzone is used for blocking the UVA rays and is reported unstable in physical sunscreens. |
Some of the side effects of Oxybenzone
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Some of the side effects of Avobenzone
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