Photo allergy

Allergic reactions to the sun are specific: solar urticaria, photoallergic dermatitis and phototoxic dermatitis.

All are due to hypersensitivity of the body, which usually occurs when the sun is combined with certain local or systemic factors. Topical agents are those applied (smeared) to the skin and systemic agents are those taken orally.

Phototoxic dermatitis: is the reaction caused by the contact of a substance, either local or systemic (e.g. medicines, dyes, essential oils) with sunlight. It is generated directly, i.e. on first exposure of the patient to the sun.
Photoallergic dermatitis: implies a previous exposure that caused the sensitization of the person, so that the next time the person is exposed to the sun the reaction will develop.
Solar urticaria: a rare allergic reaction purely to the sun (without photosensitising agents) that manifests as bumps (small swelling-like lesions) on parts of the body that see the sun (usually on the hands, but they can also appear elsewhere).
Their symptoms vary from person to person. The most common are erythema (redness) with or without swelling or rash, itching, pigmentation of the skin, blisters of various sizes, fluid flow or "popping" of the skin.

WHAT WE DO

- Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
- Use of protective clothing (trousers, long-sleeved shirt, hat, sunglasses) during outdoor exposure.
- Frequent application of sunscreen suitable for the skin.
- In case of using medications, it is recommended to contact a dermatologist to avoid causing a skin reaction to the sun.

THERAPY

- Removal of the responsible agent (after consultation with the attending physician)
- Medication (e.g. cortisone, antihistamines)
- Avoiding the sun

Source : http://www.edae.gr/