- Possible symptoms
- How to confirm the diagnosis
- Who is most at risk
- What to do in case of sun allergy
- How the treatment is done
- How to protect your skin from the sun
- Possible causes of sun allergy
Allergy to the sun is an exaggerated reaction of the immune system to the sun's rays that causes an inflammatory reaction in the regions most exposed to the sun such as arms, hands, neckline and face, causing symptoms such as redness, itching and white or reddish spots on the skin. In more severe and rare cases, this reaction may even appear on the skin covered by clothing.
Although the cause of this allergy is not yet known, it is possible that it happens because the body recognizes the changes caused by the sun on the skin as something "strange", resulting in an inflammatory reaction.
This allergy can usually be prevented or alleviated by using sunscreen to protect the skin. The treatment of this type of allergy is made using antihistamine remedies such as Allegra or Loratadine for example, which must be indicated by the dermatologist.
Possible symptoms
Symptoms of sun allergy can vary from person to person, depending on the sensitivity of the immune system, however, the most common signs include:
- Red spots on the skin; Blisters or red spots on the skin; Itching in a region of the skin; Irritation and tenderness in the parts exposed to the sun; Burning sensation on the skin.
In some cases there may also be the formation of bubbles with transparent liquid inside, being more common in people with fair skin or who are undergoing treatment with drugs that cause sensitivity to sunlight such as Dipyrone or Tetracycline, for example.
These symptoms may appear within minutes of exposure to the sun, but, depending on the sensitivity of each person, this period may be shorter.
Check also that other causes can cause red spots on the skin.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of allergy to the sun must be made by a dermatologist by observing the symptoms and assessing the history of each person. However, more specific tests may also be necessary, such as blood tests or skin biopsy, where a small piece of skin tissue is removed and evaluated in the laboratory.
Often, the doctor may be suspicious of other illnesses before confirming allergy to the sun, such as lupus, for example. Thus, it is possible that the diagnosis will be delayed.
Who is most at risk
Although allergy to the sun can occur in anyone, it is usually more common when there are any of the following risk factors:
- Having very clear and sensitive skin; Using chemicals on the skin, such as perfumes or repellents; Treating with drugs that cause sensitivity to the sun, such as Dipyrone or Tetracycline; Having other skin diseases, such as dermatitis or psoriasis;
In addition, people with a family history of sun allergy also appear to be more likely to develop skin changes after sun exposure.
What to do in case of sun allergy
In case of allergic reaction to the sun, it is recommended to pass cold water in the region and keep it protected from the sun, to reduce inflammation. However, in more severe cases, when there is severe itching and the appearance of red plaques throughout the body, one should still go to the hospital or consult a dermatologist, to assess the condition and start a more appropriate treatment, which may include the use of antihistamines or corticosteroids, for example.
How the treatment is done
The treatment of sun allergy should always be initiated with techniques to avoid prolonged contact with the sun, such as using sunscreen or wearing clothing that covers most of the skin, for example.
However, if the symptoms still appear, the dermatologist may also prescribe antihistamine remedies such as Loratadine or Allegra, or corticosteroids, such as Betamethasone to relieve allergy symptoms during a crisis, or to be used frequently.
In addition, when there is a lot of itchiness and redness in the skin, the use of antihistamine ointments or creams may also be indicated, which help in the quick relief of symptoms.
How to protect your skin from the sun
Sun allergy is a problem that, although it has treatment to relieve symptoms, has no cure. However, there are some tips that can help protect your skin and the frequent attacks of symptoms, such as:
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure and go to places with a lot of shade, spending as much time as possible out of the sun. See how to get sun without risks; Apply sunscreen on the skin with a minimum protection factor of 30, before leaving home; Use a moisturizing lipstick with protection factor 30 or higher; Avoid sun exposure during the hottest hours, between 10 am and 4 pm, because in this period the sun's rays are more intense; Wear clothing that protects against sunlight, giving preference to shirts with sleeves and pants. In summer, this type of clothing should be made of natural, light and light colored fabric; Wear a cap or hat, as well as sunglasses, to protect your head and eyes from sunlight.
In addition, when allergy symptoms appear, taking a cold shower to relieve itching and redness is also a great option, as well as applying a little aloe vera helps to calm the skin.
Check also how to choose the best sunscreen and other tips to protect yourself from the sun:
Possible causes of sun allergy
In many cases, allergy to the sun happens due to a genetic predisposition of the person to react excessively to the contact of UV rays with the skin. However, there are also other cases in which the use of certain medications, such as antibiotics, antifungals or antihistamines, as well as direct contact with preservatives from cosmetic products, can increase sensitivity to the sun's rays, favoring allergic reactions.
