Sun Allergy – Diagnosis and Treatment
Sun allergy is a condition where the skin reacts to sunlight, often leading to an itchy red rash or other symptoms. The body’s immune system treats sunlight as a threat and responds with an allergic reaction.
This reaction can cause discomfort and may affect daily activities, especially when spending time outside. Understanding sun allergy, including its symptoms and how to manage it, is important for those who notice changes in their skin after sun exposure.
Diagnosis
To identify a sun allergy, a provider usually checks for signs like a red rash, hives, or swelling after sun exposure.
They may ask about recent activities, medications such as sulfonamides or quinolones, and any family history of skin reactions or lupus. When symptoms like itching, blisters, or inflammation appear, providers sometimes order more tests.
| Test | What It Detects |
|---|---|
| Phototesting | Photosensitivity, solar urticaria, polymorphous light eruption |
| Photopatch Test | Chemical photosensitivity, photoallergic reaction |
| Blood Test/Biopsy | Lupus, other underlying diseases |
Phototesting is a common exam. In this procedure, the provider exposes the skin to controlled UVA and UVB light to see if hives, swelling, or redness develop.
This process helps determine if the reaction is from photosensitivity, such as solar urticaria or polymorphous light eruption.
Photopatch testing can also help when a photoallergic reaction is possible. Providers place substances suspected to cause chemical photosensitivity on the skin.
Later, they expose some patches to UV light. If a red rash or other reaction appears only where both the chemical and UV light were applied, it suggests photoallergic or phototoxic contact.
When doctors suspect an underlying illness, like systemic lupus erythematosus, they may order blood tests or a skin biopsy. These tests look for other causes of sun-related rashes and inflammation.
Treatment
Prescription Drugs and Topical Treatments
Doctors commonly recommend corticosteroid creams to reduce itching and swelling. These come in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths. For more severe cases, a short course of corticosteroid pills may be prescribed.
Other drugs, such as hydroxychloroquine, can help some people. Antihistamines and corticosteroids also help manage symptoms. Rarely, providers may consider other options like omalizumab, NSAIDs, or certain antibiotics.
Gradual Sunlight Exposure Therapy
Phototherapy prepares sensitive skin for sunlight. Using special UV lamps, healthcare teams help a person’s skin get used to light slowly over a few weeks.
Sessions often happen several times a week. This method reduces rashes or redness when the person is exposed to natural sunlight.
Everyday Tips for Managing Sun Sensitivity
People can take several steps at home to handle sun-sensitive skin:
- Stay Out of Direct Sunlight: Try to remain in the shade during the brightest hours, usually from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Dress for Protection: Wear clothes with long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to help block out sunlight.
- Use SPF Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) to any exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
- Keep Skin Moisturized: Using gentle skin creams can ease discomfort from dryness or irritation.
| Protective Gear | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Wide-brimmed hat | Shields face and neck |
| Sunglasses | Protects eyes from UV rays |
| Long-sleeved shirts | Covers arms from sun exposure |
Some people may need to review their medications with a health care provider if those medicines make skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps You Can Take Before Seeing the Doctor
Before meeting a health care provider or a skin specialist, prepare some information. Writing down details about your symptoms and health history can be very helpful during your appointment.
Make a Symptom List:
- Note when your skin problems began after being in the sun.
- Describe any changes in your symptoms, such as if they have gotten worse or improved.
- Write down what type of symptoms you had, like rashes, redness, or itching.
- Include if you have had these issues in the past.
Medication and Supplement Record:
- List all medicines and supplements you use regularly.
- Bring this list to your appointment.
Check for Test Preparation:
- Ask if you should stop any medication before testing. Some tests, like phototesting, may need you to avoid certain medicines ahead of time.
- Follow any other instructions you are given before the appointment.
Family or Previous History:
- If you or a family member have had similar skin reactions, note these details.
| Information | Example/Details |
|---|---|
| First appearance | Date and time after sun exposure |
| Symptoms | Rash, itch, pain, blisters |
| Changes noticed | Worse, better, same |
| Past episodes | Yes/No; how often |
| Medications | Names and doses |
| Supplements | Vitamins, herbs, others |
| Family history | Similar reactions in relatives |
Questions to Expect
During your visit, the provider may ask a number of questions to learn more about your skin issues.
Common Questions You May Hear:
- Which parts of your body had the reaction?
- Can you describe how the affected skin looks?
- How bad are your symptoms, and how long do they last?
- Do you feel itching, swelling, or pain?
- Does sunlight through glass also cause problems, or only direct sun?
- Has anyone in your family had similar skin problems or other allergic reactions?
- What skin products do you use, like soaps, lotions, or sunscreens?
How to Make Your Appointment Run Smoothly:
- Bring your list of questions and concerns.
- Take photos of your skin reaction, if possible, to show the doctor.
- Be ready to discuss not only symptoms but also your daily routines, including time spent outdoors.
