Sun allergy is a term commonly used to describe a number of conditions that may trigger an adverse reaction to the skin caused by long sunlight exposure or artificial ultraviolet light.
When the immune system reacts to the sun rashes can appear as blotches, blisters, or hives and they can occur in one area or all over the body. The most common form of sun allergy is the Polymorphic Light Eruption (PMLE), known also as “sun poisoning”.
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According to the NHS, an itchy or burning rash can appear within hours or up to 2-3 days after prolonged exposure to sunlight.
How do I recognise a sun rush?
While skin abrasions can appear anywhere, the most common parts are the ones most exposed to the sun such as upper-chest, arms, neck and legs, and symptoms may vary depending on what is causing the reaction and from person to person. Most of the people see small red bumps; others may develop blisters, red patches and severe pruritic skin lesions. When the symptoms are severe, people with this skin condition can also experience secondary symptoms such as chills, swelling, headache and nausea.
What triggers a sun rash?
Factors that can make the skin more reactive to the sun are:
- Hereditary, therefore a family history with sun rashes.
- Some medications including antihistamines, antibiotics, diabetes drugs, cardiac and chemotherapy drugs, antidepressants.
- Other skin conditions (such as eczema).
How can I prevent and treat sun allergy symptoms?
The best way to prevent sun poisoning is by avoiding sun exposure between 11 am and 4 pm and eventually wearing a hat and protective clothing during peak hours. A broad-spectrum sunscreen (with SPF 30 or higher) is essential regardless of the weather, as well as drinking plenty of water or electrolytes to balance fluid loss, as dehydration develops quickly when exposed to the sun.
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SUN INTOLERANCE PROTECTIVE SPRAY will help reduce the sensitivity of the skin when exposed to the sun. This formula helps the skin to stimulate the adaptation to the sun, decreasing therefore adverse reactions including sunburn and sun poisoning. The delicate formula is fragrance-free and rich in anti-inflammatory and active ingredients.
In some cases, treatment including drugs such as steroids or antibiotics may be necessary, and medical advice is highly recommended.
Following simple steps you can protect your skin from sun damage and prevent sunburns, sun poisoning, premature wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and in some cases decrease the risk of skin cancers.
Reference:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polymorphic-light-eruption
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17681-sun-allergy
https://www.health.harvard.edu/skin-and-hair/10-types-of-medications