Medications + Facial Treatments: What You Should Know

It’s no secret that medications and facial treatments don’t always mix well. In fact, there are a few medications that can interfere with the results of your facial treatment.

If you’re taking medication and want to get a facial treatment, it’s important to be aware of these potential interactions so you can make the best decision for your skincare routine.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different types of medications that can interfere with facial treatments, as well as who you should ask about your medications and skincare routine. We’ll also share some tips on how to find the best sunscreen ingredients for your facial.

Medications That Interfere With Facial Treatments

There are a few different types of medications that can interfere with facial treatments. If you’re taking any of these medications, it’s best to reschedule your facial treatment appointment to avoid any dangerous or adverse reaction. These medications include:

#1. Antibiotics

Antibiotics can be prescribed for various reasons, and unfortunately, some may make you more sensitive to sunlight. A few of the most common antibiotics include quinolones, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, and sulfonamides. If you’re planning on getting a facial treatment and expect to be spending time outside following your appointment, it’s vital that you wear sunscreen to protect your skin.

#2. Retinoids

Retinoids like Accutane can thin out your skin and leave it vulnerable to sunburns or rashes from UV rays. If this is something that worries you, talk with your esthetician about alternatives to retinoids.

#3. Antifungals

Antifungal medications are typically taken to stop or kill the growth of Fungi. However, combining facial treatments with Antifungal meds such as lotrimin, miconazole, fluconazole, and mycoid, can cause skin irritation. If you’re under these medications, it’s best to avoid any facial treatments. You can opt to reschedule your facial treatment appointment to a later date.

#4. Pain Killers

Pain killers are common medications that we take now and then to relieve pain. Unfortunately, pain killers like hydrocodone or demerol may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which could lead to a higher risk of sunburns. If you’re taking painkillers, it’s best to always wear sunscreen when out in the sun.

#5. Antidepressants and Psychiatric Medications

Both antidepressants and psychiatric medications can cause photosensitivity for those prescribed. A few common medications include Paxil, Prozac, and Zoloft. If you’re taking any of these medications and want to get a facial treatment, it’s vital that you inform your esthetician prior to your appointment. Providing your esthetician with this information will not only offer a warning before they start working on your face but also help ensure the correct treatment is given.

Other Medications That May Interfere With Your Facial Treatments

There are many other medications that can interfere with your treatment to cause mild or severe side effects on your skin. These medications include:

• Steroids
• Diuretics
• Antiarthritics
• Malaria medication
• Major tranquilizers
• Cardiac health medications
• Blood pressure medications
• Cancer treatments or chemotherapy
• Epidermal receptor inhibitors
• Anticonvulsants/neuroleptics
• Hypoglycemics or diabetes medications
• Porphyrins (Beta-carotene, Vitamin D, etc.)

Birth Control and Skincare

Whereas birth control has been seen to clear skin in most people, it has also been linked as one of the products that can worsen acne. This is because some ingredients in birth control can affect your skincare routine. For example, estrogen can increase skin oil production, which can lead to acne breakouts.

Birth control also dries out the skin because of the progesterone. So if you’re taking birth control and want to get a facial treatment that includes moisturizing, ask your esthetician for recommendations.

Who Should I Ask About My Medication and Skincare Routine?

If you’re taking medication and want to get a facial treatment, it’s important to consult with a professional. Whether a doctor, dermatologist, licensed medical spa clinician, or pharmacist. There are many knowledgeable individuals you can turn to for information regarding medications and facial treatments. Each of these professionals can help determine the safety behind getting a facial treatment while taking medication. They can also recommend alternative forms of medication that won’t interfere with your skincare routine.

Sun Sensitivity and Prescription Skincare

Certain medications can make you more sensitive to sunlight, which means that a facial treatment could leave your skin vulnerable. If this is the case and you want to get a facial treatment, be sure to wear sunscreen every day after getting out in the sun as well as when indoors near windows that let UV rays through (e.g., car windows or even office buildings).

Note that in some cases, prescription skincare may be a better option than over-the-counter products. Also, always ensure you talk with your dermatologist about whether or not prescription skincare is a good option for you and ask about any potential side effects.

Best Sunscreen Ingredients for Your Face

When it comes to sunscreen, not all ingredients are created equal. Some ingredients are better at protecting your skin from the sun than others. In this section, we’ll discuss some of the best sunscreen ingredients for your face and why they’re so effective.

• Zinc Oxide: Zinc oxide is a mineral that works by blocking both UVA and UVB rays. It’s considered one of the safest ingredients for your skin because it doesn’t contain harmful chemicals.
• Homosalate (HMS): Homosalate works by absorbing ultraviolet light. This ingredient is especially effective at blocking UVB rays, which are the type of radiation that causes sunburn.
• Octisalate (OSA): Octisalate is a sunscreen ingredient that works by absorbing UV light. It’s effective at blocking both UVA and UVB radiation, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin.
• Avobenzone (Parsol 1789): Avobenzone is an ingredient that protects your skin from UVA radiation. It’s effective at blocking UV rays, but it can be unstable when exposed to sunlight. For this reason, it’s important to use a sunscreen that contains avobenzone with other ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
• Octocrylene (OCR): Octocrylene is an organic compound that absorbs ultraviolet light. It’s also considered one of the safest ingredients for your skin, including your face, because it doesn’t contain harmful chemicals.
• Oxybenzone (OBZ): Oxybenzone is a sunscreen ingredient that works by absorbing UV light. It’s effective at blocking both UVA and UVB radiation, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin.

Sunscreen is an important part of any skincare routine, and it’s especially important to use sunscreen if you’re taking medication that makes you more sensitive to the sun.

Improve Your Skin Care Routine With Spa MD

If you’re looking for more information about skincare and medications, Spa MD is here to help. We are skilled skin care consultants who can answer any questions you may have about facial treatments, medication, and skincare products. We can help develop a plan that’s tailored to your specific skin care needs. We’re committed to providing our clients with the best products and services available. Reach out to us today for more information.