Will Doxycycline Make You Burn? The Facts on Photosensitivity

October 12, 2025 •

3 min read

Studies show doxycycline is a known photosensitizer, increasing skin's sensitivity to sunlight and causing severe sunburn-like reactions. This directly addresses the question, 'Will doxycycline make you burn?', by confirming the antibiotic's known effect on sun sensitivity.

Quick Summary

Doxycycline can cause photosensitivity, a side effect that increases your skin's vulnerability to UV light, potentially leading to a severe sunburn or burning sensation even with brief sun exposure.

Key Points

Doxycycline causes photosensitivity: This antibiotic increases your skin's sensitivity to sunlight and UV rays, which can lead to a severe, rapid-onset sunburn or a burning sensation.
The reaction is phototoxic: Doxycycline accumulates in the skin and absorbs UV radiation, causing damage to skin cells and an inflammatory burn.
Sun protection is mandatory: Patients must take precautions like wearing protective clothing, hats, and a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen throughout treatment and for up to two weeks after.
Avoid peak sun hours and tanning beds: Minimize time in direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and completely avoid tanning beds.
Manage mild reactions at home: For a mild sunburn or rash, cool compresses, aloe vera, and pain relievers can provide relief.
Seek medical attention for severe symptoms: Symptoms like fever, chills, blistering, or widespread rash require immediate medical care and consultation with your doctor.
The effect is dose-dependent: Higher doses of doxycycline may increase the risk and severity of photosensitivity.

The Link Between Doxycycline and Photosensitivity

Yes, doxycycline can make you burn. This is a well-documented side effect known as photosensitivity, or sun sensitivity. Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic widely prescribed to treat various infections, from respiratory conditions to acne and malaria prevention. The primary risk, especially during periods of high sun exposure, is the development of an exaggerated sunburn reaction. This can occur much more quickly and be more severe than a typical sunburn. For this reason, anyone starting a course of doxycycline must take deliberate steps to protect their skin from the sun's harmful rays.

The Mechanism of Phototoxicity

Doxycycline causes photosensitivity through a process called phototoxicity. The antibiotic builds up in the skin, and when exposed to UV light, it triggers reactions that damage skin cells, leading to inflammation and discomfort similar to a severe burn. This reaction is a direct result of the interaction between the drug and UV light, not an allergic response. Both UVA and UVB rays can trigger this, with UVA1 being the primary culprit. The severity of the reaction can depend on the dose of doxycycline.

Recognizing a Doxycycline Photosensitivity Reaction

Symptoms of a photosensitivity reaction typically occur on sun-exposed skin and can range from mild to severe. Common signs include a burning or tingling sensation, intense redness resembling an exaggerated sunburn, and potentially a rash or blisters in more serious cases. Peeling skin and pain in the affected area are also possible. Rarely, the reaction can affect the nails, causing onycholysis. Severe symptoms such as fever, chills, or widespread blistering require immediate medical attention.

Comparison of Antibiotic Photosensitivity

Photosensitivity risk varies among antibiotics. The table below compares doxycycline to other common antibiotics:


Antibiotic	Class	Photosensitivity Risk	Management Strategy
Doxycycline	Tetracycline	High	Strict sun avoidance, protective clothing, high SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Minocycline	Tetracycline	Moderate	Less photosensitizing than doxycycline, but sun protection is still recommended.
Ciprofloxacin	Fluoroquinolone	High	Similar precautions to doxycycline, though mechanisms differ.
Azithromycin	Macrolide	Low	Photosensitivity is rare, but possible; general sun safety advised.
Amoxicillin	Penicillin	Very Low	Photosensitivity is not a common side effect.
Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (Bactrim)	Sulfa antibiotic	High	Significant risk of photosensitivity; strict sun protection is necessary.

Prevention is Key: How to Avoid a Doxycycline Burn

Preventing a phototoxic reaction requires proactive measures throughout the treatment and for about 10 to 14 days afterward. Essential steps include avoiding peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), wearing protective clothing like long sleeves, pants, and wide-brimmed hats, and using sunglasses. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher applied to all exposed skin is crucial, and it should be reapplied regularly. It's also important to avoid tanning beds and take doxycycline with plenty of water to prevent other side effects like esophageal irritation.

What to Do If You Get Sunburned While on Doxycycline

If you get a sunburn or rash while on doxycycline, manage the reaction and contact your healthcare provider. For mild burns, cool compresses and aloe vera can provide relief. Staying hydrated and using over-the-counter pain relievers can also help. Severe reactions, including fever, chills, or widespread blistering, require immediate medical attention. Your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid cream or switch your antibiotic.

Conclusion: A Proactive Approach to Sun Safety

Doxycycline is effective but can cause photosensitivity and severe sunburn. This risk can be managed with sun protection, including clothing, avoiding peak sun, and using broad-spectrum sunscreen. If a reaction occurs, prompt treatment and medical consultation are vital. Understanding the connection between doxycycline and photosensitivity allows patients to use the medication safely while minimizing the risk of a painful burn. Prioritizing sun safety is key to a smooth recovery.

For further information on doxycycline's side effects and safe use, resources like the U.S. National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus drug information are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photosensitivity can begin soon after starting doxycycline treatment. It's best to begin sun protective measures immediately upon starting the medication, as reactions can happen quickly, sometimes within hours of sun exposure.

The increased sun sensitivity can last for up to 10 to 14 days after you have finished your course of doxycycline. It is crucial to continue your sun protective measures throughout this period to prevent a burn.

Most experts recommend a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) for adequate protection. Some individuals, especially those with fair skin, may opt for a higher SPF, such as 50. Crucially, ensure the product protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Yes, you can still get a sunburn on cloudy days. UV radiation can penetrate cloud cover, and the photosensitizing effects of doxycycline remain active. Consistent sun protection is needed regardless of weather.

Blistering is a sign of a severe sunburn reaction. You should contact your doctor immediately. They may prescribe a topical cream or advise further medical treatment. Do not pop any blisters, as this can increase the risk of infection.

Yes, the risk of photosensitivity is generally considered dose-dependent. Patients on higher dosages or longer courses of treatment may have a higher risk or experience a more severe reaction.

Taking doxycycline in the evening can help minimize the risk by ensuring the drug's peak concentration doesn't coincide with peak daylight hours. However, this does not eliminate the risk, and sun protection is still necessary throughout the day.