Small bumps after sunburn. Sun Rash: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options for Polymorphous Light Eruption
What are the common symptoms of sun rash. How is polymorphous light eruption diagnosed. What treatments are available for sun-induced skin reactions. Who is most at risk for developing photodermatosis. When should you seek medical attention for a sun rash.
Understanding Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE)
Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE) is a common type of sun rash that affects approximately 10-20% of people. This photodermatosis, or sun-related skin disorder, is often mistakenly referred to as a sun allergy. PMLE typically manifests as a red, itchy rash that appears after exposure to sunlight, particularly on areas of skin that are usually covered during colder months.
While PMLE is the most prevalent form of sun rash, other types exist, including:
- Hereditary photodermatoses
- Medication-induced photosensitivity
- Plant-related photodermatoses
Recognizing the Symptoms of Sun Rash
Sun rash symptoms typically appear several hours or days after sun exposure. The characteristics of the rash can vary depending on an individual’s skin type, but common signs include:
- Clusters of small bumps or blisters
- Itchy, red patches
- Burning sensation on affected skin
- Raised or rough skin patches
In cases of severe sunburn accompanying the rash, individuals may also experience fever or headache.
Solar Urticaria: A Rare Form of Sun Rash
Solar urticaria is an uncommon type of photodermatosis that can cause additional symptoms beyond the typical sun rash. People with this condition may experience:
- Faintness
- Breathlessness
- Headache
- Other allergy-like symptoms
These symptoms usually occur within minutes of sun exposure for those with solar urticaria.
Investigating the Causes of Sun Rash
The exact cause of sun rash remains unclear to medical professionals. However, it is believed that UV radiation from the sun or artificial sources like sunlamps may trigger reactions in individuals with sensitivity to this type of light. The resulting immune response leads to the development of the rash.
Risk Factors for Sun Rash
Several factors may increase an individual’s likelihood of developing certain types of sun rash:
- Being assigned female at birth
- Having light skin
- Living in Northern regions (e.g., Scandinavia, Central Europe, United States)
- Family history of sun rash
- Residing in high-altitude areas
Diagnosing Sun Rash and When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience a rash after sun exposure, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a dermatologist. They can rule out other conditions such as contact dermatitis or lupus and determine the specific type of sun-induced rash you may have.
Are there instances when immediate medical attention is necessary for sun rash? Yes, seek immediate medical care if:
- Your rash becomes widespread and painful
- You develop a fever alongside the rash
- You experience a sun rash for the first time
It’s important to note that sun rashes can sometimes mimic more serious conditions, making professional medical evaluation essential.
Treatment Options for Sun Rash
In many cases, sun rash resolves on its own within a few days without requiring treatment. However, the specific approach depends on the type of rash and the presence of severe sun poisoning. While medical intervention may not always be necessary, several remedies can help manage discomfort:
- Apply anti-itch creams: Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-itch corticosteroid creams like hydrocortisone can provide relief.
- Use oral antihistamines: OTC antihistamines may help alleviate itching.
- Try cold compresses: Applying cool, damp cloths to the affected area can soothe irritation.
- Take cool baths: Soaking in cool water may help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
- Avoid scratching: Resist the urge to scratch the rash to prevent further irritation or infection.
Preventing Sun Rash: Protective Measures
While sun rash can be uncomfortable, there are several preventive measures individuals can take to reduce their risk:
- Gradually increase sun exposure: Slowly build up your sun tolerance over time.
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen: Apply a high-SPF sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Wear protective clothing: Cover exposed skin with long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats.
- Seek shade: Limit direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm).
- Consider UV-protective fabrics: Some clothing is specifically designed to block harmful UV rays.
Long-Term Management of Sun Sensitivity
For individuals prone to sun rash or other forms of photodermatosis, long-term management strategies may be necessary. These can include:
- Phototherapy: Controlled exposure to UV light may help build tolerance.
- Oral medications: In severe cases, doctors may prescribe medications like hydroxychloroquine or beta-carotene.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Making changes to daily routines to minimize sun exposure.
- Regular dermatologist check-ups: Monitoring skin health and adjusting treatment plans as needed.
Understanding the Impact of Sun Rash on Quality of Life
Sun rash can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life, particularly during summer months or in sunny climates. The condition may lead to:
- Limitations on outdoor activities
- Anxiety about sun exposure
- Self-consciousness about visible skin symptoms
- Disruption of daily routines
Addressing these concerns is an important aspect of managing sun rash. Support groups and counseling may be beneficial for those struggling with the psychological impact of the condition.
Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Sun Rash
Ongoing research into photodermatoses like PMLE is paving the way for new treatment options and improved understanding of these conditions. Some areas of focus include:
- Genetic factors: Identifying specific genes associated with sun sensitivity.
- Immunological mechanisms: Understanding the immune response involved in sun rash development.
- Novel sunscreen formulations: Developing more effective UV-blocking ingredients.
- Targeted therapies: Creating treatments that address the underlying causes of photodermatoses.
As research progresses, individuals with sun rash may have access to more effective prevention and treatment options in the future.
The Role of Diet in Sun Sensitivity
While diet is not typically considered a primary factor in sun rash development, some studies suggest that certain nutrients may influence skin sensitivity to UV radiation. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, may help protect the skin from sun damage. Additionally, some research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil may have a protective effect against UV-induced skin inflammation.
However, it’s important to note that dietary changes should not replace other sun protection measures. A balanced diet should be considered as part of an overall skin health strategy, rather than a standalone treatment for sun rash.
Environmental Factors and Sun Rash
Environmental conditions can play a significant role in the development and severity of sun rash. Factors that may influence sun sensitivity include:
- Altitude: Higher elevations increase UV exposure.
- Reflective surfaces: Snow, water, and sand can intensify UV radiation.
- Time of day: UV rays are strongest during midday hours.
- Season: UV intensity varies throughout the year.
- Cloud cover: UV rays can penetrate clouds, potentially leading to unexpected sun exposure.
Understanding these environmental influences can help individuals better plan their outdoor activities and take appropriate precautions to prevent sun rash.
Sun Rash in Children: Special Considerations
Children’s skin is particularly sensitive to sun exposure, making them more susceptible to sun rash and other photodermatoses. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the following:
- Sun protection is crucial from an early age.
- Children may not always communicate discomfort effectively, so regular skin checks are important.
- Some medications can increase photosensitivity in children.
- Gradual sun exposure may help build tolerance over time.
Consulting with a pediatric dermatologist can provide tailored advice for managing sun sensitivity in children.
The Connection Between Sun Rash and Other Skin Conditions
Sun rash can sometimes be confused with or exacerbate other skin conditions. Understanding these relationships is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Some conditions that may interact with or mimic sun rash include:
- Eczema: Sun exposure can trigger flare-ups in some individuals with eczema.
- Rosacea: UV radiation may worsen symptoms of rosacea.
- Lupus: Certain forms of lupus can cause photosensitivity and rashes similar to sun rash.
- Porphyria: This rare group of disorders can cause extreme sensitivity to sunlight.
If you have a pre-existing skin condition, it’s crucial to work closely with a dermatologist to manage both your primary condition and any sun-related skin reactions.
Occupational Considerations for Sun Rash
Certain occupations may put individuals at higher risk for developing sun rash due to increased sun exposure. These may include:
- Outdoor workers (e.g., construction workers, landscapers, farmers)
- Lifeguards and beach attendants
- Professional athletes
- Tour guides and outdoor recreation leaders
Employers in these industries should provide education on sun safety and appropriate protective measures. Individuals in high-risk occupations may need to take extra precautions to prevent sun rash and other photodermatoses.
The Psychological Impact of Chronic Sun Sensitivity
Living with chronic sun sensitivity can have significant psychological effects. Individuals may experience:
- Social isolation due to limitations on outdoor activities
- Anxiety about potential sun exposure
- Depression related to lifestyle restrictions
- Body image issues due to visible skin symptoms
Addressing these psychological aspects is an important part of comprehensive care for individuals with sun rash. Mental health support, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or support groups, may be beneficial in managing the emotional impact of the condition.
Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Sun Rash
While traditional medical treatments are the primary approach to managing sun rash, some individuals may explore complementary therapies. These may include:
- Herbal remedies: Some plants, like aloe vera, may have soothing properties for irritated skin.
- Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique may help manage symptoms in some individuals.
- Mindfulness and stress reduction techniques: These may help in coping with the psychological impact of sun sensitivity.
It’s important to note that the efficacy of these alternative approaches is not well-established, and they should not replace conventional medical treatments. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new therapies.
The Role of Vitamin D in Sun Sensitivity
Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” is primarily synthesized in the skin through sun exposure. For individuals with sun sensitivity, obtaining adequate vitamin D can be challenging. Consider the following:
- Vitamin D deficiency may be more common in those who strictly avoid sun exposure.
- Dietary sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods.
- Vitamin D supplements may be recommended for some individuals with sun sensitivity.
- Regular blood tests can help monitor vitamin D levels.
Balancing the need for vitamin D with sun protection is an important aspect of managing sun sensitivity. A healthcare provider can offer personalized advice on maintaining optimal vitamin D levels while minimizing sun exposure risks.
Poisoning, Allergy, Treatment, Causes, Pictures, and More
Sun Rash: Poisoning, Allergy, Treatment, Causes, Pictures, and More
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Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, D. O. — By Jaime Herndon, MS, MPH, MFA — Updated on December 10, 2021
A sun rash can occur due to a genetic condition or the use of a certain medication. The rash may appear as small blisters and cause an itching or burning feeling, among other symptoms.
Sun rash is a type of photodermatosis, where exposure to sunlight causes a reaction on your skin. One common sun rash is called polymorphous light eruption (PMLE), sometimes also called a sun poisoning rash.
PMLE is a red, itchy rash that appears because of exposure to sunlight.
Many people incorrectly refer to PMLE as a sun allergy. In fact, as mentioned, PMLE is a type of photodermatosis. This refers to a sun-related skin disorder. It is one of the most common forms, occurring in around 10 to 20 percent of people.
Other kinds of sun rash can:
- have hereditary causes
- relate to the use of certain medications
- have links to exposure to compounds in certain plants
We explain how to spot sun rash, what causes it, and how to manage symptoms once they develop.
Sun rash typically appears several hours or days after sun exposure. It can develop anywhere on the body that’s exposed to sunlight. Some kinds of sun rash occur on skin that’s usually covered in the fall and winter, such as your chest or arms.
Characteristics of the rash can vary between people depending on skin type, but they can include:
- groups of small bumps or blisters
- itchy red patches
- areas of the skin that feel like they’re burning
- raised or rough patches of skin
If a person also has a severe sunburn, they might also feel a fever or headache.
Some people who get sun rash live with a rare photodermatosis called solar urticaria (sun allergy hives). Folks with solar urticaria may feel the following symptoms alongside sun rash:
- faintness
- breathlessness
- headache
- other allergy symptoms
These symptoms will usually happen within a few minutes of sun exposure for people with solar urticaria.
Doctors have yet to work out exactly what causes sun rash.
UV radiation from the sun or artificial sources like sunlamps might cause reactions in some people with a sensitivity to this type of light. The resulting immune reaction triggers the rash.
Some risk factors for certain kinds of sun rash can include:
- being assigned female at birth
- having light skin
- living in Northern regions, such as Scandinavia, Central Europe, and the United States
- having a family history of sun rash
- living in high altitude areas
If you experience a rash after being out in the sun, it’s important to speak with a doctor, such as a dermatologist (if you have access to one). They can rule out other conditions like contact dermatitis or lupus.
Your doctor can also examine the area to see what kind of sun-induced rash it might be. If you’ve never had a sun rash before and suddenly get one, call your doctor.
You should get immediate medical attention if your rash becomes widespread and painful or if you also have a fever. Sometimes, sun rashes can mimic other, more serious ailments, so it’s best to have a medical professional examine you.
Healthcare professionals do not always recommend treatment for sun rash. Most of the time, it can resolve without treatment in a few days. However, this depends on the specific rash and if there’s severe sun poisoning.
The following remedies can help you manage your comfort while the rash is visible:
- Apply anti-itching creams. If your rash itches, an over-the-counter (OTC) anti-itch corticosteroid cream like hydrocortisone can be helpful. OTC oral antihistamines can also help.
- Try cold compresses or a cool bath. These can also provide itch relief.
- Avoid scratching at any blisters. If you have any blisters or if the rash is painful, don’t scratch or pop the blisters. This can lead to infection. You can cover the blisters with gauze to help protect them and take an OTC pain-relieving medication like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Use gentle moisturizers. As your skin starts to heal, you can use gentle moisturizers to relieve itching from dry or irritated skin.
These remedies aren’t effective for everyone. If the treatments don’t have the desired effect, you might need to reach out to a doctor. They can prescribe you a stronger anti-itch cream or oral medication to relieve symptoms.
For people who regularly take medication for another condition, a doctor can let you know if your sun rash is a side effect of the medication.
If your sun rash is due to an allergy, your doctor might prescribe allergy medication or corticosteroids to help address any symptoms you might be having. Sometimes, a physician will prescribe the antimalarial medication hydroxychloroquine, since it’s been shown to address symptoms of certain types of photodermatoses.
There are precautions you can take to minimize your risk of sun rash happening again:
- Wear sunscreen. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 about a half hour before going out into the sun, and reapply every 2 hours (sooner if you go swimming or are sweating a lot).
- Protect your skin with long-sleeve shirts and a wide-brim hat. You might also want to think about wearing specially made clothes that contain sun protective factors.
- Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most intense. For extra protection, stay out of the sun until after 4 p.m.
- Depending on the type of sun rash, it may be beneficial to gradually expose yourself to more light in the spring. This might help reduce the likelihood of developing a rash. Work with your doctor to be on the safe side.
Sun rash often goes away on its own, but it can recur with exposure to sunlight.
Sun rash typically goes away within a few days, depending on the underlying cause. If your rash recurs despite taking precautions or doesn’t seem to be improving with treatment, call your doctor.
Last medically reviewed on December 10, 2021
How we reviewed this article:
Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
- Harris BW, et al. (2021). Solar urticaria.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441986/ - Lehmann P, et al. (2011). Photodermatoses: Diagnosis and treatment.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3063367/ - Oakley AM, et al. (2021). Polymorphic light eruption.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430886/ - Sun poisoning dangers: Symptoms, treatment and prevention. (2014).
share.upmc.com/2014/06/dangers-sun-poisoning/
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Current Version
Dec 10, 2021
Written By
Jaime R. Herndon, MS, MPH, MFA
Edited By
Adam Felman
Medically Reviewed By
Stacy Sampson, D.O.
Copy Edited By
Chris Doka
Oct 24, 2018
Written By
Jaime R. Herndon, MS, MPH, MFA
Medically Reviewed By
Stacy Sampson, D.O.
Share this article
Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, D.O. — By Jaime Herndon, MS, MPH, MFA — Updated on December 10, 2021
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Poisoning, Allergy, Treatment, Causes, Pictures, and More
Sun Rash: Poisoning, Allergy, Treatment, Causes, Pictures, and More
- Health Conditions
- Featured
- Breast Cancer
- IBD
- Migraine
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Articles
- Acid Reflux
- ADHD
- Allergies
- Alzheimer’s & Dementia
- Bipolar Disorder
- Cancer
- Crohn’s Disease
- Chronic Pain
- Cold & Flu
- COPD
- Depression
- Fibromyalgia
- Heart Disease
- High Cholesterol
- HIV
- Hypertension
- IPF
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriasis
- Skin Disorders and Care
- STDs
- Featured
- Discover
- Wellness Topics
- Nutrition
- Fitness
- Skin Care
- Sexual Health
- Women’s Health
- Mental Well-Being
- Sleep
- Product Reviews
- Vitamins & Supplements
- Sleep
- Mental Health
- Nutrition
- At-Home Testing
- CBD
- Men’s Health
- Original Series
- Fresh Food Fast
- Diagnosis Diaries
- You’re Not Alone
- Present Tense
- Video Series
- Youth in Focus
- Healthy Harvest
- No More Silence
- Future of Health
- Wellness Topics
- Plan
- Health Challenges
- Mindful Eating
- Sugar Savvy
- Move Your Body
- Gut Health
- Mood Foods
- Align Your Spine
- Find Care
- Primary Care
- Mental Health
- OB-GYN
- Dermatologists
- Neurologists
- Cardiologists
- Orthopedists
- Lifestyle Quizzes
- Weight Management
- Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
- Are You a Workaholic?
- How Well Do You Sleep?
- Tools & Resources
- Health News
- Find a Diet
- Find Healthy Snacks
- Drugs A-Z
- Health A-Z
- Health Challenges
- Connect
- Breast Cancer
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Migraine
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Psoriasis
Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, D. O. — By Jaime Herndon, MS, MPH, MFA — Updated on December 10, 2021
A sun rash can occur due to a genetic condition or the use of a certain medication. The rash may appear as small blisters and cause an itching or burning feeling, among other symptoms.
Sun rash is a type of photodermatosis, where exposure to sunlight causes a reaction on your skin. One common sun rash is called polymorphous light eruption (PMLE), sometimes also called a sun poisoning rash.
PMLE is a red, itchy rash that appears because of exposure to sunlight.
Many people incorrectly refer to PMLE as a sun allergy. In fact, as mentioned, PMLE is a type of photodermatosis. This refers to a sun-related skin disorder. It is one of the most common forms, occurring in around 10 to 20 percent of people.
Other kinds of sun rash can:
- have hereditary causes
- relate to the use of certain medications
- have links to exposure to compounds in certain plants
We explain how to spot sun rash, what causes it, and how to manage symptoms once they develop.
Sun rash typically appears several hours or days after sun exposure. It can develop anywhere on the body that’s exposed to sunlight. Some kinds of sun rash occur on skin that’s usually covered in the fall and winter, such as your chest or arms.
Characteristics of the rash can vary between people depending on skin type, but they can include:
- groups of small bumps or blisters
- itchy red patches
- areas of the skin that feel like they’re burning
- raised or rough patches of skin
If a person also has a severe sunburn, they might also feel a fever or headache.
Some people who get sun rash live with a rare photodermatosis called solar urticaria (sun allergy hives). Folks with solar urticaria may feel the following symptoms alongside sun rash:
- faintness
- breathlessness
- headache
- other allergy symptoms
These symptoms will usually happen within a few minutes of sun exposure for people with solar urticaria.
Doctors have yet to work out exactly what causes sun rash.
UV radiation from the sun or artificial sources like sunlamps might cause reactions in some people with a sensitivity to this type of light. The resulting immune reaction triggers the rash.
Some risk factors for certain kinds of sun rash can include:
- being assigned female at birth
- having light skin
- living in Northern regions, such as Scandinavia, Central Europe, and the United States
- having a family history of sun rash
- living in high altitude areas
If you experience a rash after being out in the sun, it’s important to speak with a doctor, such as a dermatologist (if you have access to one). They can rule out other conditions like contact dermatitis or lupus.
Your doctor can also examine the area to see what kind of sun-induced rash it might be. If you’ve never had a sun rash before and suddenly get one, call your doctor.
You should get immediate medical attention if your rash becomes widespread and painful or if you also have a fever. Sometimes, sun rashes can mimic other, more serious ailments, so it’s best to have a medical professional examine you.
Healthcare professionals do not always recommend treatment for sun rash. Most of the time, it can resolve without treatment in a few days. However, this depends on the specific rash and if there’s severe sun poisoning.
The following remedies can help you manage your comfort while the rash is visible:
- Apply anti-itching creams. If your rash itches, an over-the-counter (OTC) anti-itch corticosteroid cream like hydrocortisone can be helpful. OTC oral antihistamines can also help.
- Try cold compresses or a cool bath. These can also provide itch relief.
- Avoid scratching at any blisters. If you have any blisters or if the rash is painful, don’t scratch or pop the blisters. This can lead to infection. You can cover the blisters with gauze to help protect them and take an OTC pain-relieving medication like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Use gentle moisturizers. As your skin starts to heal, you can use gentle moisturizers to relieve itching from dry or irritated skin.
These remedies aren’t effective for everyone. If the treatments don’t have the desired effect, you might need to reach out to a doctor. They can prescribe you a stronger anti-itch cream or oral medication to relieve symptoms.
For people who regularly take medication for another condition, a doctor can let you know if your sun rash is a side effect of the medication.
If your sun rash is due to an allergy, your doctor might prescribe allergy medication or corticosteroids to help address any symptoms you might be having. Sometimes, a physician will prescribe the antimalarial medication hydroxychloroquine, since it’s been shown to address symptoms of certain types of photodermatoses.
There are precautions you can take to minimize your risk of sun rash happening again:
- Wear sunscreen. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 about a half hour before going out into the sun, and reapply every 2 hours (sooner if you go swimming or are sweating a lot).
- Protect your skin with long-sleeve shirts and a wide-brim hat. You might also want to think about wearing specially made clothes that contain sun protective factors.
- Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most intense. For extra protection, stay out of the sun until after 4 p.m.
- Depending on the type of sun rash, it may be beneficial to gradually expose yourself to more light in the spring. This might help reduce the likelihood of developing a rash. Work with your doctor to be on the safe side.
Sun rash often goes away on its own, but it can recur with exposure to sunlight.
Sun rash typically goes away within a few days, depending on the underlying cause. If your rash recurs despite taking precautions or doesn’t seem to be improving with treatment, call your doctor.
Last medically reviewed on December 10, 2021
How we reviewed this article:
Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
- Harris BW, et al. (2021). Solar urticaria.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441986/ - Lehmann P, et al. (2011). Photodermatoses: Diagnosis and treatment.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3063367/ - Oakley AM, et al. (2021). Polymorphic light eruption.
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430886/ - Sun poisoning dangers: Symptoms, treatment and prevention. (2014).
share.upmc.com/2014/06/dangers-sun-poisoning/
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Current Version
Dec 10, 2021
Written By
Jaime R. Herndon, MS, MPH, MFA
Edited By
Adam Felman
Medically Reviewed By
Stacy Sampson, D.O.
Copy Edited By
Chris Doka
Oct 24, 2018
Written By
Jaime R. Herndon, MS, MPH, MFA
Medically Reviewed By
Stacy Sampson, D.O.
Share this article
Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, D.O. — By Jaime Herndon, MS, MPH, MFA — Updated on December 10, 2021
Read this next
- Sun Poisoning
Medically reviewed by Catherine Hannan, M.D.
Sun poisoning refers to a case of severe sunburn. It occurs after you’ve been exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun for an extended period of…
READ MORE
- Everything You Should Know About Solar Urticaria
While it’s rare, some people have allergic reactions to the sun — a condition known as solar urticaria. Learn more about its causes and treatments.
READ MORE
- How to Identify a Tanning Bed Rash
Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP
Tanning beds are a popular way to make your skin look tanner without going outside. One side effect of tanning is something called a tanning bed rash…
READ MORE
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Pimples on the skin of the face from the sun – what to do
Does your skin react strangely to ultraviolet light? Have you noticed that you get acne from the sun? Let’s figure out why this can happen and how to reconcile you with the sun’s rays!
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Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.
This unpleasant phenomenon can be found as many as five quite logical explanations.
First and most incredible: you suffer from a natural intolerance to ultraviolet rays. Scientifically, this disease is called photodermatitis. It is said that it was it that gave people with a rich imagination the ground for creating legends about vampires. In fact, “allergy to the sun” is a rather rare skin pathology, it manifests itself in only 2% of people around the world and requires specialized outpatient treatment.
The second, much more possible: you spend too much time on the beach, your skin becomes dry, and the sebaceous glands begin to behave unpredictably. Intense exposure to ultraviolet radiation leads to the fact that the pores become clogged with fat and dead cells. All this becomes inflamed over time and turns into red, inflamed pimples, often with purulent contents. What to do? Dose the time spent in the sun, sunbathe only during “safe” hours: before 10 am and after 4 pm. And in your case, it’s better not to abuse the solarium!
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The third reason is related to the wrong choice of sunscreen cosmetics. It is important that milk or spray with UV filters not only protect against burns, but also suit your skin. If they are chosen incorrectly, then acne after the sun will appear, like an allergy to cosmetics. Most often, such reactions are observed as a result of using products with essential oils of sandalwood, musk, amber, tea tree, rosemary. But sometimes even completely harmless, at first glance, components can cause an undesirable effect. Choosing the right composition is usually necessary through trial and error.
Fourth, excessive sweating. It may well be that the true cause of inflammation is actually not the sun, but a reaction to it. If you sweat a lot on sunny warm days, then skin irritation is most likely due to this. On top of that, dust and dirt sticking to a sticky face and hands leads to the fact that the number of acne during the day increases exponentially. There is only one way out – to use wet wipes more often, to dress as lightly as possible, to choose clothes from natural breathable fabrics.
Finally, the fifth reason is the increased sensitivity of the skin, which is often caused by taking certain medications. If you are sick and have to take antibiotics – especially from the tetracycline and fluoroquinolone groups, or drugs from the sulfonamide category, then in the near future it is better to refrain from intense sunbathing.
Do pimples on your skin from the sun cause you a lot of problems and grief? There is only one way out: to correctly establish the true cause of their appearance and come to grips with its elimination!
why rashes appear on the face in summer and how to prevent them
Sun acne usually appears in late spring, early summer or during travel when the skin is exposed to sudden sun after a long break. Most of all, women 20-40 years old and people whose skin is prone to oily are susceptible to this form of rash.
For many years it was customary to think that the sun is like a panacea for acne: it dries them up and heals the skin. This opinion was formed due to the incompleteness of the picture of everything that happens under the top layer of the skin. The first time really – the sun ennobles the face, cleans up pimples and evens out the tone with a tan. This happens because light rays have bactericidal properties and dry comedones. Infrared radiation warms up stagnant spots, and they become invisible. Vitamin D and the happiness hormone serotonin are produced. At first glance, the sun really does have one benefit: the face becomes cleaner, the mood is better.
After the peak of improvement comes the decline. The reverse process begins, and the activity of sebocytes increases by 120-140% after four days of active exposure to the sun. As a result, the rashes return in increased numbers. Ultraviolet can be useful, but its portions must be dosed. On the beach or in the solarium, radiation hits the skin in such an amount that it is no longer being treated. Although smart skin in the summer itself tries to protect itself from ultraviolet attack and thickens the stratum corneum. But this only complicates the process of producing sebum on the surface and leads to clogged pores.
What else
Increased UV radiation reduces skin immunity. In summer, the skin sweats, and dust, dirt, urban smog and harmful impurities that are rich in urban air easily adhere to a damp surface. Wet skin is more vulnerable and easily damaged by friction. You can rub your forehead or put on a sweater with a narrow neck, and micro-wounds are already forming on the surface, into which microbes penetrate like an open gate.
Melanocytes (specialized skin cells) produce melanin in excess, which causes the appearance of age spots.
In summer, the acid-base environment (pH level) changes towards alkalization. Such an environment is favorable for the life of bacteria and the appearance of inflammation.
The sun changes the chemical composition of sebum, it becomes more dense and often forms plugs in the glands.
How to prevent “summer” rashes?
So that summer does not become stressful for the skin after a long break, you should appear in the sun gradually. The skin will get used to the UV rays and the reaction will not be as acute.
You need to wash your face in the heat not only in the morning and evening (this is a mandatory minimum), but also during the day. For intermediate washing, it is enough to wipe the face with a cotton pad moistened with tonic or thermal water. The latter are different in saturation with microelements – depending on the source from which it was obtained. In summer, thermal water with selenium works especially well. It is a natural antioxidant that protects the skin from the effects of free radicals and soothes after sun exposure. Selenium is contained in the thermal springs of France, and the package usually indicates where the water comes from.
Spray thermal water while in the shade and do not leave to dry on the skin. Water droplets turn into small magnifiers and in the sun can cause a burn. After one or two minutes after application, blot your face with a tissue. Minerals during this time will have time to saturate the skin, and if you leave the water to evaporate on its own, then the desired hydration will end with an unpleasant feeling of tightness.
For morning and evening cleansing, dermatologist Dr. Robinson recommends products containing salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. For gentle cleansing of the skin, an exfoliating gel is suitable, but without microgranules.
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EVA ESTHETIC Cleansing Gel for combination and oily skin
Salicylic Cleanser IMMUNO Propeller for Sensitive Skin
If you use scrubs in washing, then for the summer you should refuse them. Hydroxy acids (AHA / BHA) cope with cleansing and acne, but in the sunny period they are also dangerous and can provoke pigmentation. Therefore, if you cannot do without acids, then cleanse your skin only before going to bed, do not plan trips to the beach the next day and be sure to use a cream with SPF protection.
For skin prone to oiliness and breakouts, dermatologists recommend an oil-free sunscreen base. Any cosmetic products should be oil-free so that pores do not clog and unabsorbed fat does not provoke acne exacerbations. But still, there are oils that oily skin will make friends with: with polyunsaturated fatty acids, that is, non-ocmedogenic. They liquefy sebum and clog pores less. These include: argan, mineral, tomato, shea, blackcurrant, rosehip and others. There is a special table of comedogenicity, according to which it is convenient to check oils. They wrote about it here.
If you have oily skin, pay attention to masks with tomato extract. After such a mask, the skin is not sticky and is not oversaturated with active substances.
WEIS Facial Mask with Tomato Extract
If you have to stay in the sun or on the beach for a long time, then it is advisable to renew the cream. It is important to apply it on clean skin, otherwise all the dust and dirt from the previous coating will go straight into the pores.
It is important to drink a lot in summer, and not only to prevent dehydration: frequent drinking also helps to get rid of acne. Thorough cleansing and maintaining water balance are the basis of clear and healthy skin when it is sunny and stuffy outside.
To benefit from the sun, cosmetologist from St. Petersburg Alla Nikolaeva advises sunbathing during safe hours: from 7 to 12 in the morning and from 18 to 21 in the evening.
And the last tip, which is relevant at any time of the year – less stress. Diseases appear from it, worse than acne, but they also pop up. Take care of yourself and your health, and then the summer will truly delight.