Photosensitivity: What It Is, What Causes It, and How to Protect Your Skin

You probably know about sensitive skin, one of the five main skin types, but have you heard of photosensitivity? Most likely, yes, but just by a different name. When people talk about sun sensitivity, they’re usually referring to what medical professionals call photosensitivity. The two terms are often used interchangeably in everyday conversations.

When someone’s photosensitive, it means they have a heightened sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. For some people, it may mean burning more easily, while for others, it can trigger redness, rashes, and irritation, even after brief sun exposure. Photosensitivity doesn’t just mean sunburns, either. If your skin is extra sensitive to the sun, it’s easier to get skin damage that can lead to premature skin aging or even increase skin cancer risk over time.

Photosensitivity gets a lot more attention in the spring and summer, when longer days and more time spent outdoors naturally increase UV exposure. But spending more time in the sun is only one part of the story. Your skin’s sensitivity to the sun can also be influenced by other factors, including certain skincare ingredients.

In this guide, we’re taking a deep dive into photosensitivity and breaking down the causes so you know how to better protect your skin.

What Causes Photosensitivity?

Well, a few things. Citrus fruits, like lime, can cause photosensitivity when left on the skin. Lime juice contains furocoumarin, a photosensitizing ingredient that reacts negatively to UV light exposure. When you go into the sun with lime juice on your skin or lips, that area can grow irritated and inflamed, causing phytophotodermatitis, a.k.a. “margarita burn.” Aside from citrus fruits, carrots, and figs can also trigger this reaction.

Some other common causes for photosensitivity include certain medications, like antibiotics, acne treatments, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Medical conditions, like autoimmune disorders and some genetic conditions, can also increase sensitivity to sunlight. 

Skincare ingredients are often part of the conversation because some active ingredients can make your skin more vulnerable to the sun. That doesn't mean they're unsafe or that you need to stop using them. In fact, many dermatologist-recommended ingredients that contribute to UV sensitivity—including retinoids and exfoliating acids—can be used safely as long as you pair them with good sun protection (one of our faves: La Roche Posay’s Anthelios UVAir SPF 50 Serum Sunscreen). You can learn more about sunscreen, including what’s inside yours, here.

Photosensitivity Symptoms: How Your Skin May React

Photosensitivity can show up in several ways, including redness, itching, burning, rashes, blisters, or a sunburn that's more severe than you'd expect after a short time outside. These reactions typically show up on areas of skin exposed to sunlight.

Obviously, you want to avoid these reactions, but we get it—life happens. If you find yourself dealing with the repercussions of a photosensitive reaction, you have options in the form of Dieux products. Formulated with niacinamide, an ingredient with anti-inflammatory properties, Deliverance 3-in-1 Repair Serum helps to soothe irritated skin and is proven to minimize the look of visible redness on application*. 

There’s also Skin Mercy Recovery Cream, which is packed with 1% colloidal oatmeal, an over-the-counter, FDA-approved skin protectant that works to relieve itch, restore the skin barrier, and soothe irritation. 

Skincare Ingredients That Can Increase Photosensitivity

A lot of popular skincare ingredients simply make your skin more vulnerable to UV damage or sunburn. But as we mentioned above, that doesn’t mean you need to steer clear of them altogether. 

Retinoids and Sun Exposure

Retinoids are one of the most effective skincare ingredients when it comes to treating acne, boosting collagen production, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and fading dark spots. They work by speeding up cell turnover, helping new, fresh skin cells replace older ones more quickly. Because of this, they can leave your skin more prone to UV damage, especially when you first start using them. 

The good news is that you don't have to avoid retinoids. Dermatologists usually recommend applying them at night, introducing them gradually if you're new to them, and wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. 

Exfoliating Acids and Sun Exposure

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), like glycolic acid and lactic acid, are exfoliating ingredients that help smooth skin, brighten dullness, and fade discoloration by removing dead skin cells from the surface. 

Because these ingredients reveal newer skin cells, they can temporarily make your skin more vulnerable to UV damage and other environmental stressors. That's why it's especially important to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure when using them.

How to Protect Photosensitive Skin

Whether you're dealing with photosensitivity or simply using products that make your skin more prone to sunburn, the best approach is to minimize UV exposure and protect your skin every day.

Sunscreen for Photosensitivity: Why Daily Protection Matters

No matter the cause, broad-spectrum protection helps protect the skin from the impacts of UV exposure.

Broad-spectrum SPF protects against both UVA and UVB rays, which work together to trigger sunburn, irritation, and longer-term skin damage. Using an SPF 30 or higher every day is essential, and just as important is reapplying it every two hours when you’re outdoors or exposed to direct sunlight.

Wearing protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats can add another layer of defense, especially during long periods outside. Whenever possible, seek shade and try to limit direct sun exposure between the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

With consistent use, sunscreen makes it possible to safely continue using active skincare ingredients while keeping your skin protected and more resilient overall.

Strengthening Your Skin Barrier 

It's also worth paying attention to your skin barrier. A healthy skin barrier is better able to tolerate active ingredients and environmental stressors. 

Show your barrier some TLC by opting for Instant Angel Lipid-Rich Firming Moisturizer, a ceramide-rich moisturizer that helps support the skin barrier, and avoiding over-exfoliation, which can contribute to irritation.

Photosensitivity and Sun Sensitivity FAQs

What is photosensitive skin?

Photosensitive skin is a heightened sensitivity or reactivity to UV rays from the sun.

What's the difference between photosensitivity and sun sensitivity?

Both terms are used interchangeably, but they mean the same thing.

Is photosensitivity the same as a sun allergy?

A sun allergy is a type of photosensitivity. Photosensitivity is the umbrella medical term that sun allergy falls under.

Can medications cause photosensitivity?

Yes, certain medications, like antibiotics, acne treatments, and anti-inflammatory drugs can cause photosensitivity.

Is there a cure for photosensitivity?

Whatever’s causing your photosensitivity will determine how long it lasts. For example, if it’s a result of a new medication, you may never have another reaction again if you switch meds. But if your photosensitivity is caused by a medical condition, like an autoimmune disorder, you might need to work with your doctor to figure out how to properly manage it.

Do retinoids increase sun sensitivity?

Because retinoids work by boosting cell turnover, they can leave your skin more prone to UV damage and increase sun sensitivity, which is why it’s especially important to use a broad-spectrum SPF if they’re in your routine.

Does niacinamide make skin photosensitive?

No, niacinamide doesn’t make skin photosensitive. And because it’s an antioxidant, it actually helps support the skin barrier while also protecting the skin from environmental stressors. 

Does vitamin C make skin photosensitive?

No, vitamin C doesn’t make skin photosensitive. The antioxidant helps defend the skin against the harmful free radicals generated by UV exposure.

The Bottom Line on Photosensitive Skin

Photosensitivity or sun sensitivity doesn't mean you have to stop using certain skincare ingredients completely. It just means understanding how your skin responds, choosing products thoughtfully, and pairing them with consistent sun protection. 

With the right routine—including daily sunscreen and barrier-supporting formulas—you can enjoy the benefits of efficacious skincare while helping protect your skin's health for the long haul.

As always, you’re Dieux-ing great.

*Based on an independent clinical study with 40 panelists, measured via instrumentation and expert grading.