When sunny days roll around, who doesn’t eagerly look forward to basking in the warmth? But for some of us, the sun isn’t just about getting a tan—it triggers an unwelcome skin reaction known as sun allergy. So, what exactly is sun allergy? How does it show up? What types are there, and what causes it? Can you prevent it? And most importantly, what should you do if your skin suddenly starts itching and reacting to the sun?
What is Sun Allergy?
Sun allergy refers to an inflammatory skin reaction triggered by exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The result? Small pimples and blisters popping up on your skin. If the reaction’s severe, these spots might merge into bigger swollen patches. Anyone, including children, can experience sun allergy, and it tends to strike when our skin is adjusting to stronger sunlight—usually in the spring or early summer months.
How Does Sun Allergy Look?
Unlike a typical sunburn, which causes redness, heat, and peeling of the top skin layer, sun allergy comes with a whole different set of symptoms:
- Itching
- Redness
- Small pimples, blisters, or bumps (sometimes merging into raised patches)
- Swelling
- A burning sensation
Where Does Sun Allergy Usually Show Up?
The most common areas affected by sun allergy are the parts of your body exposed to direct sunlight, such as your shoulders, chest, arms, and face. Symptoms typically appear within minutes or hours after sun exposure. In rare cases, a sun allergy can also trigger general symptoms like headaches (including dizziness, nausea, or vomiting), wheezing, or even a severe anaphylactic shock.
Types of Sun Allergies
Polymorphous Light Eruption (The Most Common Form)
This type of sun allergy brings on an itchy rash, often accompanied by pimples, spots, and blisters that crop up a few hours after sun exposure.
Sun-induced Hives (Solar Urticaria)
Hives appear on the skin just minutes after you step into the sun.
Actinic Prurigo
More common in people with darker skin tones or those with a family history of sun allergies, this condition causes raised pimples or bumps. It can also affect areas that weren’t even exposed to the sun.
Photoallergic Reaction
This happens when something you apply to your skin (like sunscreen, perfume, or certain medications) reacts with the sunlight. You might experience symptoms hours or even days after sun exposure.
What Causes Sun Allergy?
There are a few things that can trigger a sun allergy:
- Applying certain substances to your skin
Medications or cosmetics can trigger a photoallergic reaction when exposed to sunlight. - Medications
Some drugs, like painkillers or antibiotics (think: ketoprofen, doxycycline, or co-trimoxazole), can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Always check the label to see if sun exposure is safe while on medication. - Pre-existing Skin Conditions
If you have skin conditions like eczema or lupus, you’re at a higher risk for developing sun allergies. - Family History
If your family members have had sun allergies, there’s a greater chance you could experience the same.
Treating Sun Allergy
Treating a sun allergy depends on the type and severity of the reaction. Mild reactions often just need you to stay out of the sun for a few days. But for more severe cases, treatment might include:
- Medications
- Phototherapy
- Sun Exposure Guidelines
To prevent flare-ups, try the following:
- Limit your exposure to the sun, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
- Gradually increase your sun time in spring or during vacation so your skin can adjust more easily.
- Wear UV-protective clothing and sunglasses. And don’t forget, the sun still reaches you through thin fabrics!
- Always use high-quality sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher, ideally SPF 50+), and reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming.
Even if you don’t notice signs of burning or redness, it’s still important to apply after-sun care. Moisturizing lotions, especially those with ingredients like panthenol, can help calm and nourish your skin after sun exposure.
What About Sun Allergy in Kids?
For little ones, the symptoms are similar to those in adults. Rash, pimples, blisters, or redness show up on sun-exposed areas. Kids have more delicate skin, so sun allergies can show up quicker and be more intense. Remember the general rule: babies under 1 year shouldn’t be in the sun at all, and kids under 3 should have minimal sun exposure. Always make sure kids are properly protected with shade, sunscreen, and UV-blocking clothing. If the symptoms are more severe or recurring, consult a pediatrician right away.
