Yay, summer looks like it’s finally here. It’s a great time to get outside and be more active. But it also poses challenges for those who use Oestrogen gel/spray as part of their HRT or gender transition and want to protect their skin from harmful UV rays. Balancing the use of Oestrogen gel/spray with SPF/Sunscreen is essential to maintain healthy skin and managing potential side effects. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and guidelines on how to effectively manage Oestrogen gel/spray and sunscreen during the summer months.
Understand the Importance of Sun Protection:
Sun protection is crucial, regardless of whether you use Oestrogen gel/spray or not. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to premature ageing, 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. Always try to avoid sitting in direct sun around lunchtime – it’s when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
Sunscreen Application:
Sunscreen acts as a protective barrier against harmful UV rays, preventing sun damage and other potential complications. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen with a high SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30, and make sure to reapply it every two hours or more frequently if you are sweating or swimming.
Choose the Sunscreen/SPF:
When selecting a sunscreen, opt for oil-free or lightweight formulations that are compatible with your Oestrogen gel/spray. Avoid sunscreens that contain oxybenzone, as this ingredient may interfere with hormonal balance. Look for mineral-based sunscreens with active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they provide effective protection without interfering with Oestrogen gel/spray absorption.
When to apply your HRT:
So how do you manage the application of Sunscreen AND apply Oestrogen gel/spray, at the same time? When using Oestrogen gel/spray and sunscreen together, it’s important to time your application properly. There are three different approaches:
- Option 1: Apply the Oestrogen 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 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.
Maintain Consistency:
Consistency is key when managing HRT and sunscreen during the summer. Follow a consistent skincare routine by applying the Oestrogen gel/spray and sunscreen at the same time each day. This will help you establish a habit and ensure you receive the maximum benefits from both products.
Seek Professional Advice:
You can always look at the patient information leaflet for your HRT. If you still have concerns or questions about managing Oestrogen gel/spray and sunscreen usage during the summer, then it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider or menopause specialist. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and ensure you are using the right products in the most effective way.
Conclusion:
Maintaining healthy skin during the summer months requires effective management of Oestrogen gel/spray and sunscreen. Timing your application of both products correctly, choosing suitable products, and maintaining consistency, you can enjoy the benefits of Oestrogen gel while safeguarding your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Remember to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice to ensure your skincare routine aligns with your individual needs. So, go ahead, enjoy the summer, and keep your skin protected and nourished!
A bit about me & my background
Claire is a Health, Wellbeing and Rehabilitation Specialist at Restoring Balance; a sports scientist and Women’s Health Coach who is also a multi-disciplined therapist specialising in person-centred care. Claire has also held a number of senior leadership roles in high-profile safety-critical industries, where she has championed workplace health and wellbeing, and is peri-menopausal herself.
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
- Understanding your cycle and how to work with it and not it against it
- Peri-menopause and menopause coaching
- Improving your pelvic floor function
- Calming your stress & anxiety
- Improving your digestive health
- Changing your mind-set
- Improving your emotional health
- Relieving pain
- Increasing mobility, balance, stability, co-ordination
- Post-operative rehabilitation
- Post-operative scar care
I work both online and in person from my home-based clinic on Hayling Island, Hampshire.
