Sun allergy

SUN allergy, as with other related skin conditions, may result in different types of skin eruptions.

Dr Marsha Barnett, dermatologist at the University of the West Indies Medical Centre, said sun allergy is experienced when a person has an immune response to the UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Skin lesions often appear on the surfaces of the skin exposed to the sun, such as the neck, back of the hands and arms, and rashes may spread over wider areas.

An allergic reaction to sunlight is often related to medication that is being used by patients. Dr Barnett said the drugs contained in some medications can cause sensitivity.

“[In that instance] the substance that a patient is using, whether oral or skin care creams, contains chemicals which when exposed to the sun’s rays react in such a way that it results in photosensitivity, often resulting in rashes,” the dermatologist explained.

People who are experiencing an allergic reaction to the sun may have soreness of the skin, bumps, blisters, pustules, flaking, itching, and a rash like eczema. Dr Barnett said this can be very uncomfortable.

A number of tests may be carried out on patients suspected to be suffering from sun allergy.

“A skin biopsy is done where a small piece of the skin is taken to the lab for testing,” explained Dr Barnett

She said the result from this test is crucial in making a definitive diagnosis in an effort to make specific recommendations. This procedure usually follows a history of oral and topical preparations being used by patients as well as a full body exam, and other tests to rule out underlying causes for the condition.

Dr Barnett said after the results prove the skin eruption is caused by an allergic reaction to the sun, the dermatologist will ask patients to refrain from using the products/medications to stem the allergy.

“We usually administer steroids when treating this condition [sun allergy]; however, there are some cases in which they may give patients additional antibiotics if infected. Additionally, if there is a medical condition that is fuelling the skin manifestations, the underlying issue must be treated.”

Dr. Barnett said she recommends that patients who are experiencing an allergic reaction to the sun do the following:

* Avoid the sun when the rays are at peak; which is usually between the hours of 10:00 am and 3:00 pm

* Use an umbrella whenever you will be exposed to the sun

* Wear broad-rimmed hats to protect the face and provide shade for the neck

* Wear long-sleeved shirts or blouses and trousers to cover the legs

* Use sunscreen religiously. Apply sunscreen (SPF 30 and above) to the face and other exposed areas.

When using sunscreen, the doctor recommends that patients reapply the lotion at intervals, especially if they will be exposed to the sun throughout the day.

“The sunscreen becomes less effective two hours after application, so I generally recommend that my patients reapply as often as they need to, but especially when going out in the sun during the midday hours.”

She cautioned people affected by lupus to take great care whenever they will be exposed to the sun. She said their autoimmune vulnerability puts them at a greater risk of developing sun allergies and sensitivity.