Illustration of topical cream transforming into UVA rays, symbolizing enhanced sun damage from ibuprofen/ketoprofen.

Sunscreen Isn't Enough: How Common Pain Relievers Can Make You Burn Faster

Soraya Malik in Health & Wellness November 2025 • 4 min read.

"Ibuprofen and ketoprofen, found in many over-the-counter meds, can dramatically increase your skin's sensitivity to UVA rays, leading to unexpected sunburns and cell damage."

Over-the-counter pain relievers are a staple in many households, used to tackle everything from headaches to muscle soreness. But what if these seemingly harmless pills were actually making you more vulnerable to sun damage? A recent study published in Scientific Reports has uncovered a concerning link between common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – specifically ibuprofen and ketoprofen – and increased photosensitivity.

Photosensitivity, or an increased reaction to sunlight, is a well-known side effect of certain medications. However, the extent to which widely used NSAIDs contribute to this issue has often been underestimated. The new research combines cell viability assays with molecular modeling to reveal the precise photochemical pathways through which ibuprofen and ketoprofen amplify UVA-induced cell death.

The findings highlight the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with these drugs, especially considering their widespread use in topical gels and creams. With summer just around the corner, it's crucial to be aware of how these medications might be affecting your skin's response to the sun.

The Science Behind the Burn: How Ibuprofen and Ketoprofen Intensify Sun Damage

Illustration of topical cream transforming into UVA rays, symbolizing enhanced sun damage from ibuprofen/ketoprofen.

Ibuprofen and ketoprofen are 2-arylproprionic acids, a class of NSAIDs recognized for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. They work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes, reducing the production of inflammatory precursors. While effective, these drugs also carry potential side effects, including gastrointestinal issues and cardiovascular risks. Now, photosensitivity joins the list of concerns.

The study pinpoints two main mechanisms by which these drugs increase UVA sensitivity:

Ketoprofen's Singlet Oxygen Production: Ketoprofen, which shares a structural similarity to benzophenone (a known photosensitizer), can produce singlet oxygen when exposed to UVA radiation. Singlet oxygen is a highly reactive molecule that can cause oxidative damage to cells.
Photodissociation and Radical Formation: Both ibuprofen and ketoprofen can undergo photodissociation, breaking down into highly reactive radicals when exposed to UVA light. These radicals can then trigger a cascade of damaging reactions within the skin.

Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations revealed that both drugs can form metastable aggregates with DNA, potentially increasing the likelihood of direct photochemical damage to our genetic material. This combination of intrinsic photochemistry and DNA interaction patterns explains the amplified photosensitization activity of these NSAIDs.

Protecting Your Skin: Practical Steps to Minimize Risk

While the study highlights potential risks, it's important to remember that the researchers emphasize that the UV light is efficiently screened by the skin and its penetration length is strongly reduced. The bigger concern arises with topical application of ibuprofen or ketoprofen-based products, like creams and gels, directly to sun-exposed skin. If you're using these products, consider these precautions: <ul> <li>Limit Sun Exposure: When possible, avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM).</li> <li>Protective Clothing: Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and tightly woven clothing to shield your skin.</li> <li>Consider Alternatives: If you have a history of photosensitivity, discuss alternative pain relief options with your doctor.</li> <li>Stay Informed: Be vigilant about reading medication labels and understanding potential side effects.</li> </ul> By taking these proactive steps, you can continue to manage pain effectively while minimizing your risk of sun-related skin damage.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

Everything You Need To Know

How do ibuprofen and ketoprofen increase sun sensitivity?

Ibuprofen and ketoprofen increase sun sensitivity through two main mechanisms. Ketoprofen produces singlet oxygen when exposed to UVA radiation, leading to oxidative damage. Both ibuprofen and ketoprofen can undergo photodissociation, breaking down into reactive radicals that trigger damaging reactions. They can also form metastable aggregates with DNA, increasing the likelihood of photochemical damage to genetic material. While the skin can efficiently screen UV light, topical application of ibuprofen or ketoprofen-based products is a concern.

What are some practical steps I can take to minimize the risk of sun damage when using medications like ibuprofen or ketoprofen?

To minimize risk, limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours, and wear protective clothing like hats, sunglasses, and tightly woven fabrics. Consider alternative pain relief options if you have a history of photosensitivity. Also, reading medication labels and understanding potential side effects is crucial. Using sunscreen can help; however, it is best to combine it with the other mentioned protective measures. The article does not mention specific SPF, but it is implied a high SPF is preferred. These steps are particularly important when using topical ibuprofen or ketoprofen products.

What is photosensitivity, and how are ibuprofen and ketoprofen related to it?

Photosensitivity is an increased reaction to sunlight. Ibuprofen and ketoprofen, common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), have been linked to increased photosensitivity. Research indicates that these drugs can amplify UVA-induced cell death through photochemical pathways. The effects are particularly concerning given the widespread use of these medications in both oral and topical forms. The implication is that users of these products are at higher risk of sun related adverse effects.

Besides increased photosensitivity, what other side effects are associated with ibuprofen and ketoprofen?

Ibuprofen and ketoprofen, while effective for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties, carry potential side effects beyond photosensitivity. These include gastrointestinal issues and cardiovascular risks. The specific mechanism of action is by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes, reducing the production of inflammatory precursors. The additional risk of photosensitivity highlights the importance of considering the totality of the medications risks.

The study mentions UVA radiation. What exactly is UVA, and why is it a concern in the context of ibuprofen and ketoprofen?

UVA radiation is a type of ultraviolet radiation from the sun that can penetrate deep into the skin. It's a concern because ibuprofen and ketoprofen increase the skin's sensitivity to UVA rays. Ketoprofen produces singlet oxygen when exposed to UVA, causing oxidative damage. Both drugs undergo photodissociation, forming radicals that damage cells. This heightened sensitivity means that individuals taking these medications may experience accelerated cell death and increased risk of sun damage from UVA exposure. The study highlights the importance of understanding these risks.