10 Common Medications That Make You More Sensitive to Sun

Before heading outside to soak up the sunshine, you might want to take a closer look at what’s in your medicine cabinet. Many common prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. That means you could be at risk for sunburn, rashes, or long-term skin damage—even with minimal sun exposure. Here are 10 medications that can increase your sun sensitivity, and what you can do to protect yourself.

Antibiotics: Especially Tetracyclines and Sulfa Drugs

Antibiotics like doxycycline, tetracycline, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole are well-known culprits when it comes to sun sensitivity. These drugs can cause a reaction called phototoxicity, where your skin reacts more intensely to UV light. The result? A sunburn-like rash that can show up quickly and last for days. If you’re taking these, be extra careful with sun exposure and consider protective clothing in addition to broad-spectrum sunscreen.

NSAIDs Like Ibuprofen and Naproxen

You may reach for ibuprofen or naproxen to ease pain or reduce inflammation, but these popular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also make you more vulnerable to UV rays. While not everyone will react, those who do may notice a red, itchy rash after time in the sun. If you regularly take NSAIDs, take breaks in the shade, and don’t skip the sunscreen.

Antidepressants: Tricyclics and SSRIs

Some antidepressants, including tricyclics like amitriptyline and certain SSRIs, can increase your risk of sunburn. The risk isn’t universal across all antidepressants, but it’s common enough that dermatologists often caution patients to monitor their skin closely when starting these medications. If you’re feeling better mentally but burning faster physically, your meds might be the reason.

Diuretics for Blood Pressure (Especially Thiazide Diuretics)

If you’re on medication for high blood pressure, particularly thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide, you may notice you burn faster than usual. These medications can cause both phototoxic and photoallergic reactions—meaning your skin could react not just to the sun, but to your own body’s response to the drug when combined with sunlight. Wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves are your friends here.

Antihistamines Like Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

Ironically, the medication you might take to treat an allergic reaction could set you up for another one—in the form of a sun-induced rash. First-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can make your skin more reactive to UV rays. Second-generation options, like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin), are less likely to cause this issue.

Retinoids: Both Oral and Topical

Retinoids, such as isotretinoin (Accutane) or tretinoin (Retin-A), are powerful tools in treating acne and aging—but they also thin the top layer of your skin, making it more susceptible to sunlight. Even topical forms can lead to redness and peeling when combined with sun exposure. Always use them at night and follow up with diligent daytime SPF use.

Antifungal Medications Like Griseofulvin and Ketoconazole

Antifungal medications, both oral and topical, can trigger photosensitivity reactions. Griseofulvin, an oral antifungal often prescribed for stubborn skin infections, is especially notorious for this side effect. If you’re treating athlete’s foot or a fungal skin issue and find yourself burning more easily, your antifungal might be to blame.

Antipsychotics Like Chlorpromazine

Some older antipsychotic drugs, especially chlorpromazine, can increase photosensitivity dramatically. Patients may notice an exaggerated sunburn even after short exposure, especially on areas of thinner skin like the face and forearms. Even if you’re mostly indoors, it’s important to be aware of the risk during activities like gardening, commuting, or walking the dog.

Oral Contraceptives and Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormonal medications, including birth control pills and HRT, can make your skin more reactive to the sun—not always in the form of a burn, but sometimes through melasma, a patchy darkening of the skin. These pigment changes often show up on the face and can be tough to treat, so sunblock and a wide-brimmed hat are key.

Chemotherapy Drugs

Many chemotherapy agents cause photosensitivity, especially those in the fluorouracil and methotrexate families. During treatment, your skin may become extremely delicate, and even a few minutes of sunlight can cause damage. While your oncology team will advise you on sun safety, it’s worth remembering that even reflected UV rays—from water, snow, or glass—can do harm.

What You Can Do About It

If you’re on any of these medications, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about your risk of photosensitivity. The solution isn’t necessarily to stop the drug—it’s to adjust your habits. That might mean limiting time outdoors during peak UV hours, applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen regularly, wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, and choosing protective clothing.

Medications and sunshine can still coexist—you just need to know when to be cautious. So, before you grab your beach towel or head out for a walk, make sure you’re not unknowingly setting yourself up for a sunburn in the name of good health.

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