Have you ever found an inexplicable burning rash on your arms or neckline? Depending on when it happens, you may have what’s called a sun allergy. Sun allergy is a term often used to describe a number of conditions in which an itchy red rash occurs on skin that has been exposed to sunlight. The most common form of sun allergy is polymorphic light eruption (PLE), also known as sun poisoning. The idea that a person could be allergic to sunlight may sound unbelievable, but as many as 20% of people suffer from the so-called sun allergy. . To be more precise, it’s not sun that people suffering from PLE are sensitive to, but UV radiation. That means that even artificial UV light can cause their skin to break out in a rash.
PLE eruptions are most common during the end of spring and the beginning of summer. Rashes can last around 10 days and typically stop as the summer progresses and the skin becomes accustomed to stronger sunlight. Following the first eruption, PLE tends to reoccur on a yearly basis. And it’s not just direct, unfiltered sunlight that can trigger a PLE eruption.
Some people have a hereditary type of sun allergy. Others develop signs and symptoms only when triggered by another factor — such as a medication or skin exposure to plants such as wild parsnip or limes or even certain type of sunblock.
Signs and symptoms may include:
- Redness
- Itching or pain
- Tiny bumps that may merge into raised patches
- Scaling, crusting or bleeding
- Blisters or hives
Risks factors:
- Anyone can have a sun allergy, but certain sun allergies are more common in people with lighter skin.
- Some skin allergy symptoms are triggered when your skin is exposed to a substance and then to sunlight. Common substances responsible for this type of reaction include fragrances, disinfectants and even some chemicals used in sunscreens.
- Heredity is another important factor
- Having dermatitis increases your risk of having a sun allergy.
Prevention and Natural Remedies
• Staying out of the sun between 10 AM to 2 PM when the sunlight is most intense.
• Covering up the areas of the body that aren’t accustomed to intense light exposure. Wear sunglasses with ultraviolet light protection. Wear long pants, a shirt with long sleeves and a hat with a wide brim.
• Regularly apply broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or more. This will protect you from both types of UV radiation.
• Use a sunblock on your lips. Choose a product that has been formulated especially for the lips, with an SPF of 20 or more.
· Beware of skin care products and medicines that may trigger a photoallergic eruption. These include certain antibiotics and oral birth control pills, as well as prescription medicines that are used to treat psychiatric illness, high blood pressure and heart failure.
· Mild cases of sun allergy may clear up without treatment. More-severe cases may be treated with steroid creams or pills. People who have a severe sun allergy may need to take preventive measures and wear sun-protective clothing.
Source: Internet and other
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
