The sun is shining, birds are singing; it’s a perfect day to be outside, if we take the proper precautions to protect ourselves from the sun’s rays. However, for those who suffer from a sun allergy protecting yourself when heading outdoors is critical.
Harvard Health explains that a sun allergy is an immune system reaction to sunlight, most often, an itchy red rash. The most common locations include the “V” of the neck, the back of the hands, the outside surface of the arms and the lower legs. In rare cases, the skin reaction may be more severe, producing hives or small blisters that may even spread to skin in clothed areas.
Sun allergies are triggered by changes that occur in sun-exposed skin. It is not clear why the body develops this reaction. However, the immune system recognizes some components of the sun-altered skin as “foreign,” and the body activates its immune defences against them. This produces an allergic reaction that takes the form of a rash, tiny blisters or, rarely, some other type of skin eruption.
If you experience a rash after being out in the sun, you should see a doctor to rule out other conditions like contact dermatitis or lupus.
Your doctor can also examine the rash to see what kind of sun-induced rash it might be. If you’ve never had a sun rash before and suddenly get one, call your doctor.
You should get immediate medical attention if your rash is widespread, painful, or if you have a fever. Sometimes sun rashes can mimic other ailments that can be serious, so it’s best to have a medical professional examine you to see what’s going on.
Sun rash isn’t always treated, since many times, it can go away without treatment between 10-14 days. It depends on the specific rash, and if there’s significant sun poisoning or not.
However, if the rash is itchy, healthline. com suggests an over-the-counter (OTC) anti-itch steroid cream like hydrocortisone can be helpful, as can oral antihistamines, which are also available OTC. Cold compresses or a cool bath can provide itch relief, as well.
There are precautions you can take to minimize your risk of having sun rash recur:
Wear sunscreen. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 about a half hour before going out into the sun, and reapply every two hours (sooner if you go swimming or are sweating a lot).
Protect your skin with long-sleeved shirts and a wide-brimmed hat. You might also want to think about wearing specially-made clothes that contain sun protective factors.
Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most intense. For extra protection, stay out of the sun until after 4 p.m.
If your sun rash is from an allergy, gradually expose yourself to more light in the spring. This might help reduce the likelihood of developing a rash. Work with your doctor to be on the safe side.
