What kind of sunscreen can a person with sensitive skin use? my 5 year old son has always had a skin problem because he has light sensitive skin. we have tried all types of sunscreen and he always seems to get a reaction to them. he gets hives on his face

First, : First, you need to be certain that his reaction is actually to the sunscreen. There is a condition called solar urticaria where individuals develop hives when in the sun. So a key question here is whether getting hives in the sun depends on whether he has sunscreen on. Getting back to your question though, for a sunscreen for sensitive skin, i would recommend vanicream (www.Psico.Com). Their entire line of products was developed especially for sensitive skin. Their sunscreens are zinc and titanium oxide based and the cream is developed based on avoidance of common allergens. This avoids two problems: 1. Sensitivity to chemical sunscreens (avobenzone, padimate o, etc) and 2. Sensitivity to materials in the cream the sunscreen is formulated in.

Suncreen: Suncreens with zinc oxide tend to be less sensitizing; however, allergies can occur. Also, most sunscreens contain lots of other stuff too. It sounds like you have tried many different product, so it may be time to visit a dermatologist or an allergy specialist and see what needs to be avoided.

Photosensitivity: The use of sunscreen with a sun protection factor (spf) of 15-30 or > depending on skin type, that protects against both uv-a & uv-b is aap recommendations. Photo-sensitivity may be increased by some meds/conditions. •apply a liberal amount of sunscreen 30 min before sun exposure. •reapply sunscreen q 2 hours. •use waterproof sunscreen when the child will be in the water, exercising, sweatin.