Do you remember putting on your bathing suit and wearing it from sunrise until bedtime? I do! I remember literally slathering myself with baby oil and lying prostrate on a beach towel in my backyard, by the pool, on the river dock, and at the beach—determined to cook my skin to a perfect golden brown. Looking back, it wasn’t much different from carefully laying strips of bacon in a pan and frying them to a crisp.

Ahhh, with age comes wisdom.

I no longer desire the perfect tan. In fact, I go to great lengths to minimize the sun’s effect on my body. These days, I wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, use eyeglasses that automatically darken at the slightest hint of sunshine, and seek out shade whenever possible. I no longer laugh at the “hermits” hiding under giant umbrellas at the beach. In fact, I’ve become one of them!

As a reformed sun worshiper, I’ve also learned that certain medications can trigger photosensitivity—a condition in which medications in your bloodstream react with UV rays, increasing your risk of severe sunburns, rashes, and even permanent skin or eye damage.

Who knew?

Maybe you’re smarter or better informed than I was, but just in case, here are some common medications that can increase sun sensitivity:

• Antibiotics: Commonly prescribed medications such as tetracycline, doxycycline, ciprofloxacin (Cipro), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) can trigger significant photosensitivity.

• Pain Relievers (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter and prescription anti-inflammatory medications, including ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve), may cause your skin to react more strongly to sun exposure.

• Diuretics: Medications used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention, particularly hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) and furosemide (Lasix), can increase both sun and heat sensitivity.

• Heart and Blood Pressure Medications: Certain medications used to treat irregular heart rhythms, especially amiodarone, are known to cause severe and long-lasting photosensitivity.

Other commonly used medications that may increase UV sensitivity include:

• Acne treatments such as isotretinoin (Accutane) and topical retinoids
• Antihistamines including diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and promethazine
• Diabetes medications such as glipizide and glyburide
• Certain antidepressants, including amitriptyline

Don’t get the wrong idea—spending time outdoors is incredibly important for good health! According to Dr. John La Puma, author of Indoor Epidemic, “Spending time outside can transform your life. It helps you live longer, improves mood, and supports physical and mental health.”

The key is to enjoy the outdoors wisely.

Be sure to ask your primary care provider or pharmacist whether any medications you take increase your sensitivity to the sun. To protect yourself, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear UV-blocking sunglasses, and don’t hesitate to take a relaxing midday beach break in the shade—preferably under a ceiling fan!

Your skin will thank you.