Is It Safe to Wear Perfume in the Sun?

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Beauty experts reveal why wearing perfume can make your skin more sensitive in the sun.

By Eleanor Langston

Q. "Is it safe to wear perfume when I'm going to be out in the sun?"

A. A spritz of your favorite scent can make your skin more sensitive. "When chemicals in fragrances react to UV rays, they can cause red rashes, called phytophotodermatitis," says Debra Wattenberg, MD, associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. Instead, try a light layer of scented body lotion before your sunblock. My new go-to: Beyonce Heat Gold Sparkling Body Lotion ($24, Macy's). Since the cream dilutes the aroma, you'll stay safe and smell sensational.

Originally published in FITNESS magazine, May 2010.

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