Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Can Ciprofloxacin Cause Photosensitivity?
Question: I just finished taking Cipro
I got a bad sunburn -
1) how long after finishing Cipro will I still be sensitive to sun
2) how worried should I be about skin cancer from the burn
3) is there anything I should do to help my skin
4) is sunscreen enough protection when taking Cipro
thanks XXXXXXX
I got a bad sunburn -
1) how long after finishing Cipro will I still be sensitive to sun
2) how worried should I be about skin cancer from the burn
3) is there anything I should do to help my skin
4) is sunscreen enough protection when taking Cipro
thanks XXXXXXX
Brief Answer:
Only a couple of weeks
Detailed Answer:
Dear sir,
Ciprofloxacin is known to cause the side effect of making your skin more sensitive to sunlight than they are normally. Exposure to sunlight, even for brief periods of time, may cause severe sunburn, skin rash, redness, itching, or discoloration. You need to stay out of direct sunlight, especially between the hours of 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. You should also apply a sun block product that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50 and avoid using any tanning oil. Wearing a hat will also be beneficial if you are going to be exposed to the sun.
This sensitivity shall go away in a couple of weeks. To help your skin resolve from the sunburn, wash your face frequently with cold water then apply a moisturizer that contains aloe Vera to help soothe the sunburned skin. Avoid harsh soaps on face. Sandal containing soaps may be soothing. Avoid chemicals and cosmetics.
If you experience swelling, redness or discomfort of your skin then take aspirin or ibuprofen tablets.
You should not worry about skin cancer as it occurs due to chronic skin inflammation which is not the case as your sun sensitivity and sun burn is a temporary thing.
I hope I answered your question
Only a couple of weeks
Detailed Answer:
Dear sir,
Ciprofloxacin is known to cause the side effect of making your skin more sensitive to sunlight than they are normally. Exposure to sunlight, even for brief periods of time, may cause severe sunburn, skin rash, redness, itching, or discoloration. You need to stay out of direct sunlight, especially between the hours of 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. You should also apply a sun block product that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50 and avoid using any tanning oil. Wearing a hat will also be beneficial if you are going to be exposed to the sun.
This sensitivity shall go away in a couple of weeks. To help your skin resolve from the sunburn, wash your face frequently with cold water then apply a moisturizer that contains aloe Vera to help soothe the sunburned skin. Avoid harsh soaps on face. Sandal containing soaps may be soothing. Avoid chemicals and cosmetics.
If you experience swelling, redness or discomfort of your skin then take aspirin or ibuprofen tablets.
You should not worry about skin cancer as it occurs due to chronic skin inflammation which is not the case as your sun sensitivity and sun burn is a temporary thing.
I hope I answered your question
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
