What is Sun Allergy? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Sun Allergy

Sun allergy is a medical condition where patients experience allergy-related symptoms such as rashes, redness, and itching on the skin after exposure to sunlight. While this type of allergy can manifest as a congenital condition in some individuals, it can also appear later in life due to different causative factors. When symptoms are mild, they may resolve on their own. However, some patients may need to live their lives by taking precautions to protect themselves from the sun throughout their lifetime.

What is Sun Allergy?

Sun allergy is a health issue that can present with complaints such as rashes, spots, and redness. Sun allergy spots can appear following exposure to sunlight or UV light. Unlike other allergies, it is not a direct allergy developed against the sun itself. These are symptoms observed on the skin as a result of mechanisms triggered by sunlight in the immune system. When the immune system becomes active, it may act as if it has come into contact with a foreign substance, leading to various symptoms. The most common type is known as polymorphic light eruption. This type of allergy can occur more frequently during the spring and summer months when the sun is more active. Due to the clothing preferred because of warm weather, experiencing sun allergies on the exposed chest, legs, and arms can occur due to polymorphic light eruption.

What Are the Symptoms of Sun Allergy?

Although sun allergy is divided into different types, it can manifest with similar symptoms. Some of the symptoms of sun allergy can be listed as follows:

Sensation of itching,

Redness and rashes,

Pain and inflammation in the rash-affected area,

Appearance of small bumps,

Discharge and pus,

Crusted sores,

Burning and stinging sensation.

Although rare, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and fainting can occur. While sun allergies can lead to issues like headaches and nausea, sunstroke can also cause similar symptoms.

Symptoms of sun allergy in babies can be more distressing compared to adults. Therefore, one should not go outside with babies and children without taking necessary precautions for sun allergy.

Photokeratitis, which can also be described as eye problems caused by sun rays, can be considered a type of sun allergy. Complaints such as eye pain, blurred vision, and watering can be listed as symptoms of sun allergy in the eyes. Sunglasses can be used to prevent sun allergies from affecting the eyes.

How Does Sun Allergy Occur?

The development of sun allergy can occur in different types and through various mechanisms. Sun allergy can be categorized into different types depending on underlying causes, triggering agents, and other variations. A type defined as actinic prurigo can be found hereditarily in Native Americans. Symptoms generally begin to appear during childhood and adolescence. Photoallergic rashes, on the other hand, can occur as a side effect following the use of certain medications. The use of antibiotics, certain blood pressure, and heart medications can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Situations such as incorrect skin care practices and damage to the skin barrier can also pose a risk for photoallergic issues. In the type that can be referred to as solar urticaria, large red rashes can be observed on the skin after spending time under the sun. Individuals with eczema that worsens with sunlight may also find that their normal eczema rashes become more aggressive, itchy, and red after exposure to sunlight.

How is Sun Allergy Diagnosed?

To diagnose a sun allergy, a verbal examination is first conducted, and the patient's complaints are listened to in detail. Since sun allergy does not cause symptoms like sneezing or a runny nose, such differences can help rule out other suspected diseases and allergies. Sun allergy spots, swelling, and rashes are first examined visually to form a general impression. Unlike the patch test applied for other allergies, a sun allergy test can be performed using various light sources and wavelengths. When sun allergy affects the eyes, a slit-lamp examination may be utilized in addition to listening to symptoms and performing a physical examination. Blood and urine tests may be performed due to suspicions of different diseases. A biopsy may be recommended to make a definitive decision on the status of certain lesions.

How is Sun Allergy Treated?

Treatment for sun allergy can be categorized as improving symptoms, producing solutions based on the underlying cause, and taking measures for sun protection. Medical treatment can be initiated to alleviate symptoms. Antihistaminic tablets can be effective in reducing complaints. Corticosteroid-containing creams can be preferred to reduce the redness and itching caused by lesions. Phototherapy, which helps reduce symptoms by acclimating the skin to sunlight, can also be applied as a treatment. In cases of sunlight sensitivity caused by medication use or improper skin care, measures such as changing the treatment or discontinuing use may be resorted to.

Patients experiencing allergy symptoms can ensure that contact with the sun is minimized as much as possible. As a precaution against experiencing a facial sun allergy, the use of hats and visors can be preferred in addition to sunscreen. Even if there are no risks, sunscreens can be used and reapplied from time to time to protect the skin from sun rays. To prevent sun allergies in babies, tools such as visors that can be attached to strollers can be utilized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Especially when itching is experienced on the hands due to sun allergy, the patient may feel discomfort and an urge to scratch. However, scratching lesions that appear on the body due to allergies can cause open wounds and increase the risk of infection. Antihistamines and corticosteroids recommended by a doctor can be utilized to reduce itching. Additionally, relief can be provided with moisturizing products such as aloe vera gel. Since rashes occur due to the allergy, frequently moisturizing the skin with a suitable moisturizer can reduce itching. For a definitive diagnosis of sun allergy, a doctor's examination and necessary tests must be performed. In addition, observing the symptoms that occur in oneself can help gain an idea. If symptoms such as itching, redness, and rash are seen after going out into the sun and there is no contact with a different allergen, a sun allergy can be suspected. Sun-related allergy issues can affect people of all ages. Although it is more common in young women, all age groups are at risk. It is more likely to occur in individuals using medications that cause sun sensitivity. If individuals who use aggressive skin care methods do not take necessary precautions and use incorrect methods, sun allergies can result in facial flushing. Symptoms in patients with eczema complaints may also increase after contact with sunlight. Although sun allergies do not directly cause acne formation, symptoms can trigger acne development. Sun allergies can manifest with the formation of swelling and blisters. These blisters may contain pus in some cases. Furthermore, an increase in sebum production can occur due to dryness caused by the allergy. Acne and comedone formation may occur due to increased sebum. Patients experiencing allergy issues due to the sun can make an appointment with a dermatology specialist for an examination. When sun allergy symptoms are detected in the eyes, treatment is performed by ophthalmologists. The opinion of a pediatric specialist can be sought for allergy complaints experienced in children. For primary intervention in patients experiencing sun allergies, an examination and initiation of medical treatment may be necessary. In addition, minimizing the contact of the skin with sun rays can be beneficial. Especially during times when going out of the house and spending time outdoors, applying a sufficient amount of sunscreen to the skin may be necessary. Certified sunglasses can be chosen to protect the eyes. Protection from the sun can be ensured by using products such as hats and shades. Sun allergy can in some cases be experienced due to insufficient intake of Vitamin B3 (niacin) in the body. Pellagra disease, which occurs due to Vitamin B3 deficiency, can present with symptoms such as diarrhea, dermatitis, and dementia. The initial symptoms of pellagra can also be experienced as sun sensitivity and sun allergy. Yogurt may not provide a complete cure for sun allergy, but it can help relieve symptoms such as redness and itching. It can provide temporary recovery by cooling and moisturizing the area. Various products with moisturizing and soothing properties can also be preferred for initial intervention. On the other hand, the use of products like tomato paste or toothpaste on lesions, which is also an incorrect intervention in burn treatments, should be avoided. Although there is no vitamin product that prevents sun allergies, the use of supplements such as Vitamin A and Vitamin B3 can help protect skin health. Additionally, taking supplements of minerals such as selenium can help protect the skin by helping maintain its moisture. While the deficiency of vitamins and minerals causes health problems, their excessive intake can also lead to issues. Therefore, using them arbitrarily without a doctor's recommendation may not be correct. When sun allergy symptoms are experienced in the eyes, it is recommended to stay in a dark environment as much as possible. Sunglasses can be utilized to reduce contact with the sun. Artificial tear drops can be prescribed after a doctor's examination. Pain relievers can be utilized to alleviate complaints of pain and discomfort. Temporary relief can be provided by placing a damp and cool cloth over the eyes after closing them.

If Your Sun Allergy Complaints Continue…

If you develop itching, redness, or rashes on your skin after contact with the sun, this situation can negatively affect your quality of life. Evaluation by a dermatology specialist is of great importance for the accurate diagnosis of sun allergy and the creation of a personalized treatment plan.

Hisar Hospital Intercontinental Department of Dermatology serves with up-to-date diagnostic and treatment methods for sun allergies and other skin diseases. You can consult our dermatology specialists to get information about personalized protection and treatment options.

You can contact the Hisar Hospital Department of Dermatology to make an appointment.