People usually use this term to describe any skin reaction after exposure to the sun, especially in the summer months. For science, though, the real "allergic" reactions in the sun are specific: solar urticaria, polymorphoexanthexanthema, photoallergic and phototoxic dermatitis.
Photoallergic dermatitis usually occurs after multiple exposures to the sun and requires the presence of a photoallergen, unlike phototoxic dermatitis which can occur the first time the skin comes into contact with the phototoxic substance (e.g. colognes and perfumes, contact with certain plants) and UV radiation.
The solar urticaria is a rare condition that is purely due to a skin reaction to the sun which involves the conversion of a normal skin component into an allergen, while the etiology of the most common polymorphic light-induced rash is similar.
Their symptoms vary from person to person. The most common are erythema (reddening) with or without swelling or rash, itching, pigmentation of the skin, blisters of various sizes, fluid flow or "popping" of the skin, especially in areas of light exposure.
To protect ourselves:
- Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
- Wear protective clothing (trousers, long-sleeved shirt, hat, sunglasses) when outdoors.
- We prefer to sit in the shade (the sun's rays are reflected on smooth surfaces anyway).
- We do not forget to apply the sunscreen suitable for our skin frequently.
- Finally, if we take any medications, ask our dermatologist if they can cause a skin reaction to the sun.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should immediately consult a dermatologist, the only specialist doctor who can assess the situation and give the appropriate treatment for skin diseases.
Source : www.edae.gr
