Sun Allergy

Sun allergies aren't one specific thing. They're a group of conditions that make your skin itchy and get a rash after you're exposed to sunlight or other UV light. The most common type of sun allergy is called polymorphous light eruption (PMLE).

Sometimes, a person is born with a sun allergy that runs in their family. Other times, a sun allergy only happens if something else triggers it, like taking certain medicine or touching certain plants. And sometimes, doctors don't know exactly why someone gets a sun allergy reaction.

A mild sun allergy might go away on its own. But if the rash is severe, you might need medicine, like steroid creams or pills. If your sun allergy is bad, you'll want to take steps to protect yourself from the sun. This could mean wearing clothing that covers your skin or using sunscreen.

Sun allergy rash, also called polymorphous light eruption, is a skin reaction that appears on parts of your body exposed to the sun, like your neck and chest, especially during longer daylight hours. The word "polymorphous" means the rash can look different. It might show up as tiny bumps, raised areas, or even blisters.

The way the rash looks can change based on your skin tone and the specific cause. You might notice:

• Itching (sometimes called pruritus): This is a common feeling of wanting to scratch the affected area.
• Stinging or burning: A sensation of discomfort on the skin.
• Small bumps that can join together: These might form red, raised patches.
• Redness or flushing: The skin in the affected area may turn red.
• Blisters or hives: These are raised, often itchy, swellings on the skin.

Crucially, this rash typically only appears on skin directly exposed to sunlight or other ultraviolet (UV) light sources. The symptoms usually develop within a short time, from a few minutes to a few hours, after sun exposure.

If you notice unusual or uncomfortable skin changes after sun exposure, it's important to see a doctor. This could include things like a rash, itching, or pain. If the problem is severe or doesn't go away, you might need to see a dermatologist. A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in skin conditions and can give you the best care for these types of issues.

Sun allergies happen when your body's immune system reacts to sunlight. Sometimes, medicines or other chemicals can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, leading to an allergic reaction. This can cause a variety of symptoms, like a rash, itching, or burning.

Exactly why some people get sun allergies and others don't is still unknown. It's possible that having a family history of sun allergies could play a part. This means that if your parents or other close relatives had sun allergies, you might be more likely to develop them too.

Sunlight allergies, also known as photoallergic reactions, can be triggered by several things. Understanding these risk factors can help you protect yourself.

1. Contact with Certain Substances:

Sometimes, your skin's reaction to sunlight is linked to a substance it comes into contact with before the sun exposure. This is a bit like a two-step process. For example, if you use a scented lotion or perfume, and then go out in the sun, your skin might react. Common culprits include fragrances, disinfectants, and some chemicals found in certain sunscreens. Even ingredients in cosmetics or cleaning products can sometimes cause these types of reactions.

2. Taking Certain Medications:

Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. This means it burns more easily, increasing the risk of a sun allergy. These include certain antibiotics (like tetracycline), medications containing sulfa, and pain relievers like ketoprofen. If you're taking any new medications, be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist about potential sunlight sensitivity.

3. Existing Skin Conditions:

If you already have a skin condition like dermatitis (inflammation of the skin), you're more likely to develop a sun allergy. Dermatitis can make your skin more vulnerable to reactions from sunlight. The inflammation weakens the skin's natural protection.

4. Family History:

Just like some people are more prone to other allergies, a family history of sun allergies can increase your risk. If a close relative (like a parent or sibling) has had a sun allergy, you might be more susceptible to developing one yourself. This suggests a possible genetic link.

Protecting Yourself from Sun Allergy Reactions

If you have a sun allergy or are very sensitive to sunlight, you can take steps to prevent problems. Here's how:

1. Limit Sun Exposure During Peak Hours: The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to avoid being outdoors during these hours. If you must be outside, limit your time in the sun and seek shade whenever possible. Plan outdoor activities for earlier in the morning or later in the evening.

2. Gradually Increase Outdoor Time: Many people with sun sensitivities notice issues when daylight hours get longer and the sun shines more intensely. If this applies to you, gradually increase your time outdoors. This lets your skin get used to the increased sun exposure. Don't jump right into hours of sunbathing; start with shorter periods and increase gradually.

3. Protect Your Skin with Clothing and Accessories: Wear protective clothing, like long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats. Choose tightly woven fabrics to block more of the sun's rays. Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes.

4. Sunscreen is Essential: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Broad-spectrum means the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Use enough sunscreen to create a protective layer. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you're swimming or sweating.

• Important Note: If your sunscreen contains physical blockers like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, apply these after any other lotions or creams, except insect repellent. Apply insect repellent last. Physical blockers often offer the best protection for sensitive skin.

5. Check Sunscreen Expiration Dates: The FDA requires sunscreen to remain effective for at least three years. Check the label for storage instructions and the expiration date. Discard any sunscreen that is past its expiration date or more than three years old.

6. Avoid Known Triggers: If you know certain things trigger your sun allergy, like a specific medication, contact with wild parsnip, or citrus fruits, avoid those triggers.

7. Protect Yourself Indoors Too: Apply UV-blocking film to the windows of your home and car to reduce the amount of UV radiation that enters.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of sun allergy reactions and enjoy the outdoors safely. Remember, everyone's sensitivity to the sun is different, so adjust these tips to your specific needs.

Your doctor can diagnose a sun allergy by examining your skin. They might also order some tests to pinpoint the cause.

• UV light testing (phototesting): This test checks how your skin reacts to light from a special lamp. It helps determine the specific type of sun allergy you have. The lamp provides a controlled amount of light, similar to sunlight, to see how your skin responds.

• Photopatch testing: This test helps find out if a substance is causing your sun allergy. Small patches containing common sun allergy triggers are placed on your skin, usually on your back. One area is then exposed to UV light from a lamp. If a reaction only appears in the area exposed to light, it suggests the substance on the patch is the culprit.

• Blood and skin tests: If your doctor suspects an underlying health problem like lupus could be causing your symptoms, they might order blood tests or a skin sample (biopsy). These tests are sent to a lab for analysis. This helps rule out other medical conditions that might be contributing to your sun allergy.