Ever stepped out into the sunshine only to break out in an itchy rash minutes later? While most people soak up the sun for that healthy glow, for some, it brings irritation, redness, or even painful blisters.
Welcome to the puzzling world of sunlight allergy—a condition that turns a sunny day into a skin-sensitive nightmare. But what exactly causes this reaction? Is it really an allergy? And more importantly, how can you protect yourself without living like a vampire? Let’s shed some light on this misunderstood condition.
Here in this blog, we will discuss what allergy due to sunlight is, why it occurs, what it appears like and how you can guard yourself.
What Is Sunlight Allergy?
Sun allergy is a term commonly used to describe a group of conditions where the skin reacts abnormally to sunlight. Allergic reaction to sun is when your skin breaks out after being in the sun. It’s not sunburn because sunburn happens to nearly everyone if they are in the sun for too long. But with sun allergy, even a little bit of sun can be a problem. The skin rash from sun typically occurs on the arms, neck, chest, hands or areas exposed to the sun.
The most common form of sun allergy is Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE), which usually appears as small red bumps or patches shortly after sun exposure. Other forms include solar urticaria (hives triggered by sunlight) and photoallergic reactions (caused when sunlight interacts with chemicals like medications or skincare products).
The Causes of Sunlight Allergy
There are several reasons due to which one can show allergic to sunlight symptoms:
- Family history: If your grandparents or parents had sunlight allergy, then you too may have it.
- Immune system disorders: Sometimes the body perceives sunlight as a dangerous threat and tries to combat it, thereby resulting in an allergy.
- Medications: Some medications make your skin sensitive to sunlight. For example, antibiotics or blood pressure pills.
- Skin creams: Some Perfumes or creams may react with sunlight to induce allergy.
What are the Symptoms of Sunlight Allergy?
Sun allergy symptoms may appear within minutes to a few hours of exposure to sun. They are:
- Red rashes
- Itchy skin
- Tiny bumps or blisters
- Burning sensation
- Dry, rough skin
How Can You Prevent Sunlight Allergy?
The most suitable option with sunlight allergy is to keep your skin away from sunlight. Following are some treatments or cure for sun allergy:
1. Wear protective gear
- Wear full-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Wear a large hat to protect your neck and face.
- Sun glasses can keep your eyes as well as around your eyes protected.
2. Be in the shade
- Avoid going out when the sun is directly overhead, which is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Be under a tree, an umbrella or any other type of shade when you are outside.
3. Apply sunscreen
- Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.
- The sunscreen should also be marked “broad-spectrum,” i.e., that it protects against different types of sun rays.
- Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside. Apply every 2 hours, or more frequently if you are sweating or swimming.
4. Use skin products carefully
- Some perfumes or creams make sun allergy more likely to occur.
- Always read the label or ask your doctor if you are unsure.
Can Sunlight Allergy be Treated?
Yes. If it is a mild allergy, it will go away by itself as soon as you are out of the sun. For severe reactions, physicians may prescribe:
- Anti-itch creams (like hydrocortisone)
- Antihistamine tablets (to avoid itching and swelling)
- Special treatments to get your skin gradually used to sunlight
If you usually have a bad reaction, it is worth consulting a skin doctor. They can test you and provide good advice.
Read More: Common Types of Rashes: Let’s Learn All About Them
Final Thoughts
Sunlight allergy can be annoying, but you can still enjoy yourself in the sun. Always cover up your skin, apply sunscreen and watch out for signs. If you notice something odd on your skin after being in the sun, see a doctor.
Remember, the sun is not your enemy. You simply have to be smart and look after yourself.
Be cool, get covered and enjoy your sunny days.
