As the sun climbs higher and the days stretch out, we all look forward to soaking up some vitamin D and enjoying the outdoors. However, for those of us using gel or spray-based hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and needing regular sunscreen application, summer brings a few extra challenges. Whether you’re a mid-life woman dealing with the nuances of menopause or someone transitioning and using oestrogen or testosterone, managing your HRT with your sun protection routine is crucial. Here’s your guide to enjoying the sun safely and effectively while using these treatments.
Understanding the Interaction Between HRT and Sunscreen
Gel and spray-based HRTs are popular for their ease of use and effectiveness. They are applied directly to the skin, allowing the hormones to be absorbed into the bloodstream. However, applying sunscreen—something we must do liberally and frequently—over or under these hormone treatments can raise concerns about absorption and efficacy.
Timing is Everything
It’s essential to allow enough time for the hormone gel or spray to be fully absorbed by the skin before applying sunscreen. Sun protection is crucial, regardless of whether you use Oestrogen and/or Testosterone gel/spray or not. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to premature aging, sunburns, and an increased risk of skin cancer. To shield your skin from these risks, it’s essential to incorporate a broad-spectrum sunscreen into your daily skincare routine. A healthy tan is a myth: any change to your skin colour is a sign of damage caused by the sun’s powerful ultraviolet B (UVB) and ultraviolet A (UVA) rays.
When to apply your HRT
So how do you manage the application of Suncreen AND apply Oestrogen and/or Testosterone gel/spray, at the same time? When using Oestrogen and/or Testosterone gel/spray and sunscreen together, it’s important to time your application properly. There are three different approaches
Option 1: Apply the Oestrogen and/or Testosterone gel at least 60 minutes before your sunscreen application to allow it fully absorb into your skin. This way, you can ensure that the Oestrogen gel is not diluted or compromised by the sunscreen. This might be an option for you if you’re an early riser.
Option 2: Change where you apply the Oestrogen and/or Testosterone gel/spray on your body. Typically you can apply them to the backs of your shoulders, upper arms or inner thighs. The inner thighs could be a great option for you if you’d like to stick to your morning routine.
Option 3: Change the time of day that you apply your Oestrogen gel/spray to the evening
Me, I’m all about option 1 – I’ve got my morning HRT regime sorted
Choose Your Sunscreen Wisely
Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides both UVA and UVB protection. You might need to experiment with different sunsreens as your go to one just isn’t doing it for you anymore – this is down to changing hormones levels and our skin becoming drier as go through our mid life transition.
A water-resistant type is excellent if you plan to swim or expect to sweat, which can otherwise cause the sunscreen to wear off prematurely. For those with sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to irritate or react with your hormone application site.
Best Practices for Hormone Therapy and Sun Exposure
Managing Exposure
Hormone therapy, especially Oestrogen and/or Testosterone, can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. This can increase your risk of sunburn and even long-term damage like premature aging or skin cancer. Limit direct sun exposure, particularly during peak hours between 10 AM and 2 PM. Wearing protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves, can provide additional protection.
Regular Re-application
Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you are sweating heavily or swimming. Remember, the timing of reapplying HRT gel or spray might not always align with your sunscreen schedule, so plan accordingly. If your HRT needs reapplication during the day, you might consider scheduling it during less sunny times, or in the privacy of indoor areas.
Monitoring Skin Changes
Both HRT and exposure to the sun can lead to skin changes. Keep an eye on any new moles, freckles, or changes in the skin’s texture or colour. Look out particularly for new or changing moles, especially those with an uneven shape or edges, and with a mix of colours. Those that are large, or swollen, sore, itchy, crusty or bleeding should also be checked, according to NHS.uk.
Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy Summer
Stay Hydrated
Summer heat and increased outdoor activity can lead to dehydration. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your skin healthy and aids the overall effectiveness of hormone therapy.
Balance Indoor and Outdoor Activities
While it’s tempting to spend every sunny day outside, balancing your time indoors and out helps manage your exposure to the sun. Engaging in indoor exercises or choosing shaded areas for outdoor activities can be effective strategies.
Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider
If you have concerns or questions about managing Oestrogen and/or Testosterone gel/spray and sunscreen usage during the summer, it’s always a good idea to consult your healthcare provider or menopause specialist. They can provide personalised guidance based on your specific needs and ensure you are using the right products in the most effective way.
Conclusion
Navigating the summer while managing gel and spray-based HRT alongside regular sunscreen application can seem daunting. However, with the right strategies and precautions, you can enjoy all the season has to offer without compromising on your health or comfort. Remember, the goal is to protect your skin while ensuring the effectiveness of your hormone therapy.
A bit about me & my background
Claire is a Women’s Health Specialist at Restoring Balance; a Sports Scientist and a Women’s Health Coach who is also a multi-disciplined therapist specialising in person-centred care.
Claire’s work is very different to many therapists – working with you as a whole person using a unique combination of mind, nutrition and movement to overcome both physical and emotional blocks; not just where you feel pain or have dysfunction, allowing you to live life again. Claire can help you with:
- Balancing your hormones
- Peri-menopause and menopause coaching
- Post-operative rehabilitation
- Post-operative scar care
- Calming your stress & anxiety
- Improving your digestive health
- Changing your mind-set
- Improving your emotional health
- Relieving pain
- Increasing mobility, balance, stability, co-ordination
I work both online and in person from my home-based clinic on Hayling Island, Hampshire.