When it comes to sun protection, finding just the right formula can be tricky. If you have psoriasis, the search might seem even more challenging. A short window of exposure to sunlight may alleviate psoriasis symptoms.

But too much sun can lead to skin damage and potentially skin cancer, says Rosanne Paul, DO, an assistant professor of dermatology at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland.

“Just as it is important for the general population — the same rules apply for patients with psoriasis,” says Dr. Paul. “Ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can penetrate both the affected and unaffected psoriatic skin and burn it. Burning or damage increases the risk of skin cancer.”

If you’re planning to spend more than 5 or 10 minutes in the sun, it’s essential to find the right product to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Why Sunblock for Psoriasis Is Important

It’s especially important to be diligent about sunscreen if you have psoriasis, as people with psoriasis are already at a higher risk for skin damage from the sun’s rays, says Paul.

In addition, studies have linked psoriasis with a higher risk of non-melanoma skin cancer as well as lymphoma and site-specific cancers including bladder, kidney, colorectal, laryngeal, liver, esophageal, and pancreatic cancer. This is likely due to the chronic low-grade inflammation that psoriasis causes, as well as the fact that some psoriasis treatments — like phototherapy and systemic therapies — heighten the risk of certain cancers.

People with psoriasis also tend to have cancer-related lifestyle risks such as smoking and alcohol use.

And Paul says that psoriasis patients who are taking biologics like methotrexate, or other immunosuppressants, have an even greater risk of cancer because these medications weaken the immune system and make the skin more susceptible to harm.

How to Choose a Sunblock for Psoriasis

Hannah Kopelman, DO, a dermatologist at Kopelman Hair in Paramus, New Jersey, says, “When helping my patients choose a sunblock, I always recommend looking for products that are gentle and designed for sensitive skin. Mineral-based sunblocks, which create a physical barrier to UV rays using ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are typically the best option for people with psoriasis.”

Mineral sunblocks differ from chemical sunscreens because of they create a physical shield to protect the skin from UV rays. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, work by absorbing the UV rays that hit your skin.

What to Look For in a Sunblock

When you’re shopping for a sunblock, Kopelman suggests the following:

Look for a “broad spectrum” sunblock to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.
Ensure products are free from dyes, fragrances, or other irritants to prevent flare-ups.
Look for SPF 30 or higher, ideally SPF 50, for the most reliable protection.
Look for sunblocks that contain ceramides or hyaluronic acid for moisture.

What to Avoid in a Sun Protection Product

According to Kopelman, if you have psoriasis, there are certain chemicals, additives, and irritants to avoid. “Chemical sunscreens with ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone may trigger irritation,” she says. “The goal is to choose a product that minimizes unnecessary additives and focuses on providing gentle, effective protection.”

Parabens like methylparaben and propylparaben can also cause sensitivity, so Kopelman recommends steering clear of them.

In addition, “Alcohol-based formulas should also be avoided because they can dry out the skin, which is already compromised in psoriasis,” she says.

What SPF to Choose

“For psoriasis patients, I always recommend using a sunblock with SPF 30 at a minimum, but SPF 50 is even better,” Kopelman says. “SPF measures the level of UVB protection, and higher SPF levels provide longer-lasting and more robust protection. Since psoriasis makes your skin more vulnerable to UV damage, it’s crucial to use a higher SPF, especially if you’re outdoors for extended periods.”

How to Apply Sunblock if You Have Psoriasis

If you have psoriasis, you should be cautious about how you’re applying your sunscreen. Paul and Kopelman say you should be sure to:

Pat it on — don’t rub it in — since rubbing can trigger plaques and lead to irritation and flaking.
Avoid applying on open plaques or cracked skin. Sunblock in an open wound can cause pain and discomfort.
Reapply your sunblock every two hours and immediately after swimming or heavy sweating. Sweat, water, and daily wear break down sunblock.
Avoid products with alcohol, which may dry out your skin.

Common Questions & Answers

Can I use sunscreen if I have psoriasis?

If you have psoriasis, you should use a mineral sunblock with a minimum SPF 30. Sunblock is different from sunscreen because it shields your skin from UV rays, whereas sunscreens absorb these rays.

What is the best sunscreen for psoriasis?

The specific brand of product you use is largely up to personal choice, but experts recommend that people with psoriasis use a mineral sunblock that’s at least SPF 30.

Does sunshine help psoriasis?

Experts say that a little sunshine might be beneficial for psoriasis, but too much sun can put you at risk for certain cancers, so be sure to always wear sunblock.

Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.

Resources

Bhakti S. Psoriasis and the Sun — Helpful or Harmful? American College of Rheumatology. August 17, 2023.
Costache DO et al. Skin Cancer Correlations in Psoriatic Patients. Cancers. April 25, 2023.
Loft ND et al. Cancer risk in patients with psoriasis: should we be paying more attention? Expert Review of Clinical Immunology. April 24, 2020.
Balda A et al. Psoriasis and skin cancer – Is there a link? International Immunopharmacology. August 2023.
All About Sunscreen. Skin Cancer Foundation. July 2024.
Keyes E et al. Potential allergenicity of commonly sold high SPF broad spectrum sunscreens in the United States; from the perspective of patients with autoimmune skin disease. International Journal of Women's Dermatology. May 23, 2019.
10 Easy Steps to Prevent and Manage Your Psoriasis Flare-Ups. Cleveland Clinic. April 2024.

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD

Medical Reviewer

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Skin Associates of South Florida in Coral Gables. She practices general, medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology.

Dr. Dosal provides compassionate care to all her patients, listening to their concerns and creating a treatment plan with each patient's priorities and real life in mind.

She is a member of the voluntary faculty at the University of Miami.

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Jasmine Lynn Seales

Author

Jasmine Lynn Seales is a writer and editor with expertise in health, wellness, and lifestyle topics. Her writing has appeared in Healthline, Healthgrades, Self, and Architectural Digest, among others, where she covered health-focused stories ranging from wellness products to rare diseases and public health issues. She has also contributed editorially to CNN and other local news outlets.

Originally from Detroit, she now lives in Atlanta with her Pomeranian-Chihuahua mix, Jewels.

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