What is sun rash and how does it differ from sunburn. What are the common symptoms of polymorphous light eruption. How can you prevent and treat sun rash naturally.

Understanding Sun Rash: More Than Just a Sunburn

Sun rash, also known as polymorphous light eruption (PMLE), is a type of photodermatosis – a skin reaction triggered by exposure to sunlight. While often mistaken for a sun allergy, PMLE is actually a common sun-related skin disorder affecting 10-20% of people. Unlike a typical sunburn, sun rash develops several hours or even days after sun exposure and can appear on areas of skin not usually exposed to sunlight.

But what exactly distinguishes sun rash from a regular sunburn? Sun rash typically manifests as small bumps, blisters, or itchy red patches on sun-exposed skin. It may feel like a burning sensation and can appear rough or raised. In contrast, sunburn usually results in reddened, painful skin without the characteristic bumps or blisters of sun rash.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Sun Rash

Identifying sun rash early can help manage symptoms and prevent further discomfort. Common signs to watch for include:

• Groups of small bumps or blisters
• Itchy red patches
• Burning sensation on affected skin
• Raised or rough skin texture
• Rash development on areas usually covered in winter (e.g., chest, arms)

In some cases, particularly with severe sunburn or a rare condition called solar urticaria, additional symptoms may occur:

• Fever
• Headache
• Faintness
• Breathlessness
• Other allergy-like symptoms

Unraveling the Causes of Sun Rash

While the exact cause of sun rash remains unclear, researchers believe it stems from an immune reaction triggered by UV radiation. This reaction occurs in individuals with heightened sensitivity to sunlight. Several factors may increase the risk of developing 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

Are certain individuals more susceptible to sun rash? Indeed, those with a genetic predisposition or taking specific medications may be at higher risk. Additionally, exposure to certain plant compounds can trigger similar reactions in some people.

Diagnosing Sun Rash: When to Seek Medical Attention

Distinguishing sun rash from other skin conditions is crucial for proper treatment. If you experience a rash after sun exposure, especially if it’s your first occurrence, consulting a dermatologist is advisable. They can rule out other conditions such as contact dermatitis or lupus and determine the specific type of sun-induced rash.

When should you seek immediate medical care for a sun rash? If the rash becomes widespread and painful, or if you develop a fever, it’s essential to seek prompt medical attention. In some cases, sun rashes can mimic more serious conditions, making professional evaluation necessary.

Treating Sun Rash: From Home Remedies to Medical Interventions

While sun rash often resolves on its own within a few days, various treatments can help manage symptoms and provide relief:

Home Remedies and Over-the-Counter Solutions

• Apply cool compresses to soothe irritated skin
• Use over-the-counter anti-itch corticosteroid creams like hydrocortisone
• Take oral antihistamines to reduce itching
• Apply aloe vera gel for its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties
• Take cool baths with colloidal oatmeal to relieve itching

Medical Treatments

For more severe cases, a healthcare provider may recommend:

• Prescription-strength corticosteroid creams
• Oral corticosteroids for widespread rashes
• Phototherapy to build up skin’s tolerance to UV light
• Hydroxychloroquine or other antimalarial drugs for prevention in chronic cases

Preventing Sun Rash: Strategies for Sun-Sensitive Skin

Prevention is key when it comes to sun rash. Implementing these strategies can help minimize your risk:

• Gradually increase sun exposure to build tolerance
• Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30
• Seek shade during peak sun hours (usually 10 am to 4 pm)
• Consider UV-protective clothing for extended outdoor activities

Can dietary changes help prevent sun rash? While research is ongoing, some studies suggest that increasing intake of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may help boost skin’s natural sun protection. Foods rich in these nutrients include berries, leafy greens, fatty fish, and nuts.

Sun Rash in Different Populations: Children, Adults, and Seniors

Sun rash can affect individuals of all ages, but its presentation and management may vary across different age groups:

Children and Sun Rash

Children’s skin is particularly sensitive to sun exposure, making them more susceptible to sun rash. Parents should be vigilant about sun protection, including:

• Applying sunscreen regularly and generously
• Dressing children in protective clothing
• Limiting sun exposure during peak hours
• Encouraging play in shaded areas

Adults and Sun Rash

Adults, especially those with fair skin or a history of sun sensitivity, should be proactive about sun protection. This includes:

• Using daily sunscreen, even on cloudy days
• Wearing protective clothing and accessories
• Being aware of medications that may increase sun sensitivity
• Gradually building up sun exposure when seasons change

Seniors and Sun Rash

As skin becomes thinner and more fragile with age, seniors may be at increased risk for sun-related skin issues. Special considerations for this age group include:

• Using gentler, fragrance-free sunscreens
• Paying extra attention to areas like hands and forearms
• Staying hydrated to support overall skin health
• Consulting with a dermatologist for personalized sun protection strategies

The Impact of Climate Change on Sun Rash Prevalence

As global temperatures rise and UV radiation intensifies due to climate change, the prevalence of sun rash and other photodermatoses may increase. This shift raises several important questions:

How might climate change affect the frequency of sun rash cases? With longer, hotter summers and potentially more intense UV radiation, individuals may face increased risk of developing sun rash. This could lead to a higher incidence of cases, particularly in regions not historically associated with high rates of sun-related skin conditions.

What steps can communities take to adapt to these changes? Public health initiatives focusing on sun safety education, increased availability of shade in public spaces, and potentially even UV index forecasting could help mitigate the impact of climate change on sun-related skin conditions.

How might this affect healthcare systems? An increase in sun rash cases could lead to greater demand for dermatological services and treatments. Healthcare providers may need to adapt by offering more education on prevention and expanding treatment options for sun-sensitive individuals.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments for Sun Rash

The field of dermatology continues to evolve, with ongoing research into better understanding and treating sun rash. Some promising areas of study include:

Genetic Factors

Researchers are investigating the genetic underpinnings of sun sensitivity. By identifying specific genes associated with conditions like PMLE, scientists may be able to develop more targeted treatments or preventive measures.

Novel Sunscreen Formulations

New sunscreen technologies are being developed to provide better protection against a broader spectrum of UV radiation. These may include ingredients that not only block UV rays but also help repair sun-damaged skin.

Immunomodulatory Treatments

Given that sun rash involves an immune response, researchers are exploring immunomodulatory drugs that could prevent or minimize the skin’s reaction to UV exposure.

Phototherapy Advancements

Improved phototherapy techniques may offer more effective ways to build up skin’s tolerance to UV light, potentially reducing the occurrence of sun rash in susceptible individuals.

What potential breakthroughs might we see in sun rash treatment in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict specific advancements, the growing understanding of the skin’s immune response to UV radiation could lead to more targeted therapies. These might include topical treatments that modulate the skin’s immune response or oral medications that enhance the skin’s natural UV protection mechanisms.

Living with Sun Sensitivity: Lifestyle Adaptations and Coping Strategies

For individuals prone to sun rash, managing the condition often requires lifestyle adaptations. Here are some strategies for living comfortably with sun sensitivity:

Clothing Choices

Investing in UV-protective clothing can provide an additional layer of defense against harmful rays. Look for garments with a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating.

Timing Outdoor Activities

Planning outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon can help minimize sun exposure during peak UV hours.

Indoor Alternatives

Exploring indoor hobbies or exercise options can provide enjoyable alternatives during times when sun exposure needs to be limited.

Travel Considerations

When planning vacations, individuals with sun sensitivity might choose destinations with cooler climates or plan itineraries that allow for ample indoor or shaded activities.

Support Groups

Connecting with others who have similar sun sensitivity issues can provide emotional support and practical tips for managing the condition.

How can individuals with sun sensitivity maintain an active, outdoor lifestyle? With proper precautions, many outdoor activities are still possible. This might involve choosing shaded hiking trails, using pop-up sun shelters at the beach, or participating in water activities while wearing UV-protective swimwear.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for sun rash, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their skin while still enjoying outdoor activities. As research continues to advance our understanding of this condition, we can look forward to improved prevention and treatment options in the future.

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

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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

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

• How Long Does a Sunburn Take to Heal?

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Sun allergy: treatment and symptoms of photodermatitis

On the one hand, the sun’s rays warm people with their warmth, helping to strengthen the immune system, and on the other hand, many people experience an allergic reaction as a result of exposure to the sun. Statistics record an increase in the number of cases of an allergic reaction to the sun. According to statistics, 20% of people in the world suffer from this disease. Moreover, such an allergy does not always take a chronic form. Accordingly, if the treatment is prescribed correctly, the allergy can go away forever.

Allergy to sunbathing is understood as photodermatitis or photodermatosis, since the allergic component itself is not present in the sun’s rays. By themselves, the sun’s rays do not belong to allergens, but at the same time, under their influence, substances that cause allergies can accumulate in the human body.

Photodermatitis is caused by increased sensitization of the skin when exposed to sunlight. Exposure to ultraviolet rays causes a photochemical reaction that changes the structure of substances that are in or on the skin. These altered compounds then increase skin sensitivity.

In accordance with the provoking factor, photodermatitis is divided into endogenous and exogenous:

– endogenous photodermatitis is caused by metabolic disorders (metabolism) and immune pathologies;

– exogenous photodermatitis is associated with substances that enter the skin and change under the influence of ultraviolet radiation.

Most often, the following categories of people are at risk of getting photodermatitis:

• people with fair and thin skin;
• children;
• pregnant women;
• people whose close relatives suffer from photodermatitis;
• patients suffering from atopic or other types of dermatitis;
• people who abuse solariums and tanning beds;
• people who take a number of drugs;
• People who have recently had peeling or tattooing;
• People who actively use cosmetics or perfumes.

Symptoms of photodermatitis

Conventionally, the symptoms of photodermatitis are divided into local and general. Local manifestations of allergy to the sun are expressed in redness of skin areas that have come under the sun; swelling of the affected areas of the skin; burning sensation; the appearance of itching of varying intensity; blisters filled with fluid or pus peeling of the affected skin. Common symptoms of photodermatitis include fever; general malaise; dizziness.

Allergy to the sun is not always accompanied by general symptoms. Signs of photodermatitis can take many forms, which are related to the degree of sensitivity to ultraviolet rays, skin type, general health, duration and intensity of exposure to the allergen. People with special sensitivity in the event of photodermatitis may faint; they have a sharp drop in blood pressure; bronchospasm appears.

Photodermatitis treatment

External treatment involves applying an ointment with elements of lanolin, zinc, methyluracil to the affected areas of the skin. If we consider folk remedies, then the choice should be made in favor of cabbage leaves, thin circles of cucumber or potato, which cool the skin and relieve itching. When a person has severe skin lesions, the doctor prescribes treatment with the use of hormonal ointments.

Inside, drugs are taken that can normalize liver function, can improve metabolism and regenerate (restore) the skin. Basically, these drugs are represented by antioxidants, B vitamins, vitamins E and C, nicotinic acid. You can relieve skin inflammation with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – indomethacin, aspirin. In case of severe itching, antihistamines are prescribed that do not cause allergies to the sun. The duration of treatment ranges from several days to several weeks.

With repeated photodermatitis, there is a risk of developing eczema. Accordingly, if photodermatitis occurs for the second time, it is necessary to minimize further exposure to the sun and stop sunbathing.

Many people who have had an allergic reaction to the sun often have the misconception that they should not sunbathe. This is wrong. If you follow certain safety precautions when sunbathing, you can not be afraid of sunburn. And children often and completely painlessly “outgrow” an allergy to the sun.

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. YOU NEED TO CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST

The materials posted on this page are for informational purposes and are intended for educational purposes. Site visitors should not use them as medical advice. Determining the diagnosis and choosing a treatment method remains the exclusive prerogative of your doctor!

What is sun allergy and what to do about it

May 23, 2022

Likbez

Health

Check if you thought it was a sunburn.

You can listen to a short version of this article.

What is sun allergy?

Sun allergy is a group of diseases in which painful and itchy red spots appear on exposed parts of the body due to ultraviolet radiation. So most often called a polymorphic light rash, because it is very common: it occurs in 10-20% of Caucasians, more often in women.

In addition to it, sun allergy includes:

• Solar urticaria. This is a rare severe disease in which a general allergic reaction occurs, up to anaphylactic shock, and the skin becomes covered with red, itchy blisters.
• Chronic actinic dermatitis. This is a condition in which, after the sun, dense dry folded areas appear on the body.
• Actinic prurigo, or prurigo. This is another rare skin disease. On parts of the body that are often exposed to ultraviolet radiation, swelling occurs, and after it – an itchy rash.
• Phototoxic and photoallergic dermatitis. So called rash after taking substances that increase sensitivity to the sun, or contact with them.

In some conditions, the symptoms are visible almost immediately, and in others – after a few hours.

What are the symptoms of sun allergy

Symptoms vary depending on the disease. But even within one disease, the clinical picture is not the same. For example, a polymorphic rash is so called because in some people the elements have a different shape: someone will have spots, someone will have itchy raised nodules.

This is how manifestations of allergy to the sun most often look. Photo: Valsib / Shutterstock

However, all states have common features. Eruptions appear after exposure to the sun on the face, neck, shoulders, forearms and other open areas and are accompanied by:

• itching;
• pain;
• redness;
• swelling;
• burning sensation;
• discharge of a clear or yellowish liquid from the burn.

Why sun allergy occurs

Just as photosynthesis occurs in plants in the light, various substances in the skin can change under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. Sometimes the resulting compounds cause allergies in people.

Someone’s body reacts to its own changed proteins: the immune system does not recognize them and attacks them as strangers. And for someone, the reaction occurs only after taking medications, applying cosmetics, or getting plant juice on the skin. This is due to the fact that some chemicals have a side effect – photosensitivity, that is, they increase a person’s sensitivity to the sun.

There are two types:

• Photoallergy. Signs appear only in susceptible people upon repeated exposure to changed substances, when the immune system has already managed to develop protective antibodies.
• Phototoxicity. This is when ultraviolet makes substances poisonous, and the reaction of each individual person depends on the amount of these compounds and the characteristics of the skin, and not the sensitivity of the immune system.

Personal predisposition

Scientists do not know exactly where it comes from, but they suggest that sensitivity to ultraviolet increases in those who have:

• relatives with an allergy to the sun;
• fair skin;
• skin diseases.

Medications

Medications can cause both phototoxicity and photoallergy. Most often, the reaction occurs when taking:

• antibiotics – tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, sulfonamides;
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – ibuprofen, ketoprofen, celecoxib;
• diuretics – furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide;
• retinoids;
• sulfonylurea drugs for diabetes;
• neuroleptics;
• antifungals – griseofulvin, itroconazole;
• quinidine.

Contact with cosmetics and household chemicals

Some substances that come into contact with the skin are phototoxic. Paradoxically, even sunscreens can contain phototoxic ingredients. For example, para-aminobenzoic acid, benzophenes, salicylates and cinnamates. Usually there are such substances:

• in perfume;
• creams;
• essential oils, eg bergamot;
• fragrances;
• disinfectants.

Contact with plants

Reaction to plant sap and ultraviolet light is called phytophotodermatitis. This is a phototoxic reaction common to all humans.

The most striking example is Sosnowski’s dill-like hogweed. In cold areas, before the appearance of a strong sun, they take a selfie with him, and in the south they are afraid like fire. Its danger is not in its own toxicity, but in the fact that the juice contains furocoumarins – substances that cause terrible burns in the sun.

There are also furocoumarins in the juice of lime, celery, amma, fig and psoralea. Therefore, it is better that their juice does not get on the skin of a person who is going to sunbathe.

When to see a doctor

Call an ambulance immediately if you have bleeding under the skin or symptoms of anaphylactic shock: loss of consciousness, sticky and pale skin, difficulty breathing.

See a dermatologist if you experience unusual symptoms after exposure to the sun for the first time. The doctor will ask about your condition, possibly conduct additional tests:

• phototesting — they shine an ultraviolet lamp on a small area of ​​the skin and look at the reaction;
• blood tests;
• biopsy – a doctor cuts out a piece of skin and sends it for examination under a microscope.

This is to distinguish sun allergy from other skin conditions that also increase photosensitivity. For example, from lupus erythematosus or porphyria.

Also be sure to see a dermatologist if you have already consulted a dermatologist about an allergy to the sun, but rashes appeared on areas covered by clothing or rash and itching did not go away after self-treatment.

What you can do yourself if you are allergic to the sun

Often the symptoms go away on their own when you get out of the sun. If this does not happen, you can try to cure a slight exacerbation of photosensitivity at home.

• Apply a cold compress or take a cool shower.
• Use an anti-itch cream based on steroids or antihistamines.
• If needed, take an over-the-counter antihistamine with chloropyramine, clemastine, or cetirizine.

What the doctor will do

He will teach you how to avoid the sun better and prescribe treatment. Depending on the reaction, these can be antipruritics, antihistamines and steroids, and in severe cases, immunosuppressants, substances that suppress the immune system.

How to prevent future exacerbations

Take precautions:

• Avoid sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm as this is the peak time with the most UV activity.
• Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or 50. Remember to reapply every 2 hours and after swimming.
• Wear glasses and protective clothing. Some thin or mesh fabrics let UV light through. Therefore, choose those that are labeled SPF 50 or made from dense fabrics.
• After a long break, try to gradually increase the time in the sun so that the skin cells have time to adapt to the light.