Sun Allergy: How to Recognize, Prevent and Treat It

The causes of sun allergies are diverse and challenging to pinpoint. Sun allergies are particularly prevalent among children and adolescents but can also emerge in adulthood.

Sun allergy presents in numerous subtypes and variations, leaving the medical community often uncertain about its origins. The most common form of sun allergy even encapsulates its mystery in the name—

idiopathic polymorphic light eruption

. To break it down:

Idiopathic:

Without a known cause

Polymorphic:

Exhibiting various symptoms

Light Eruption:

Inflammation of the skin caused by sunlight

Clear as sunlight, right? Or perhaps not... So, when a doctor tells you, "This is an idiopathic polymorphic light eruption," it essentially translates to, "This is skin inflammation caused by sunlight, but I can't pinpoint the exact cause."

In most cases, it is difficult to determine the source of skin reactions. Moreover, every case of sun allergy may also be referred to as photosensitivity rash or photoallergy.

The most prominent manifestation of sun allergy is acne aestivalis also known as "

mallorca acne

," which is also a subtype of polymorphic light eruption. Remarkably, this subtype is relatively easy to identify. It results in the formation of small nodules or blisters beneath the skin. These formations are firm, non-purulent, and do not develop into pimples or pustules. Mallorca acne typically occurs in the spring after the skin has had a long break from sun exposure.

Solar urticaria

is a form of hives triggered by sunlight. It results in the typical welts that are also seen in ordinary urticaria. Similar to other forms of sun allergy, pinpointing the exact cause of the reaction in solar urticaria is often challenging.

When the specific substance triggering an allergic reaction is identified, it is referred to as photoallergic light dermatosis. Understanding the cause is advantageous; however, the array of potential allergens can sometimes make identification challenging.

For those seeking a deeper understanding, we recommend referring to the overview in the Ärzteblatt titled

'Lichtdermatosen: Diagnostik und Therapie'

(Light Dermatoses: Diagnosis and Therapy). In the following, we'll focus on general tips on the topic and not delve into the numerous manifestations and subtypes.

The most common time for the onset of sun allergies is spring. For certain forms like mallorca acne, the initial days and hours of sun exposure are critical. Once the skin has acclimated to sunlight and gained a bit of a tan, the symptoms often subside. While this may not be true for every sun allergy, it's advisable not to bask in the sun right away, even with high sun protection. This brings us to the second tip.

Well, this goes without saying. Especially if you've experienced reactions to the sun before, caution is essential. It helps to cover as much skin as possible with clothing (preferably with built-in sun protection). Exposed areas should be generously coated with reliable sunscreen. Of course, never reuse products that have caused issues in the past. As selecting the right sunscreen for sun allergies can be challenging, we've compiled the essential points for you in the following paragraph.

Choosing the appropriate sunscreen for sun allergy depends on both what is absent from the sunscreen and its ability to provide secure, well-tolerated protection while optimally supporting the skin.

It's crucial to steer clear of fragrances and certain UV filters. Fragrances can have phototoxic effects and, in the worst case, may contribute to allergies and age spots. Hence, they have no place in a sunscreen, particularly for those prone to sun allergies. While allergies to UV filters are relatively rare, it is still advisable to avoid filters like

Octocrylene

and any filters ending in "

-cinnamate

," such as

Isoamyl P-Methoxycinnamate

and

Octyl Methoxycinnamate

.

Physiological UV filters like

zinc oxide

or

titanium dioxide

offer secure and well-tolerated protection. These filters are generally inert and do not irritate the skin, making them suitable for individuals with sun allergies. Additionally, there are chemical filters that are suitable for sun allergy. What precisely distinguishes UV filters? And which filters are considered harmless? Find out in this article.

If your sunscreen includes

panthenol

,

vitamin C

, or

vitamin E

, that's a significant advantage. These natural antioxidants provide additional protection against the harmful effects of UV rays. Panthenol aids in skin regeneration, vitamin C protects the skin from micro-inflammations, and vitamin E immediately helps alleviate inflammation caused by sun exposure. In some cases, this can even prevent the onset of sun allergies. Interestingly, these minor inflammations are also the cause of sunburn.

Both UVA and UVB rays can lead to sun allergies. It's crucial that your sunscreen protects against both types of sun rays. Ensure that your sunscreen carries the

UVA seal

on the packaging—simply the letters UVA enclosed in a circle.

The most effective way to alleviate acute itching is with

cortisone-containing ointments

also known as topical steroids or topical corticosteroids. The stronger ones are prescription medications, and for good reason: Cortisone should not be used long-term as it can harm the skin, including thinning it over time. Therefore, we recommend consulting a doctor for severe symptoms—especially if there is blistering.

For milder symptoms, home remedies such as

cold compresses made from yogurt or quark

can be effective. Some people also swear by

aloe vera

, though caution is advised here too, as allergic reactions are possible. However, in our family, it has always been particularly soothing for sunburn.

Since sun allergy involves inflammatory processes, vitamins and antioxidants can also help. They reduce inflammation and aid the skin in healing itself—as the maker of a well-known healing ointment has recognized. Our Bodylotion+ and Hautcreme+ are also perfectly suited for this purpose.

Bodylotion+

strengthens the skin barrier.

Hautcreme+

contains high-dose antioxidants and additional anti-aging ingredients.

The symptoms and causes of sun allergy are so diverse that even the medical field has lost track. If redness, pimples, or pustules appear after sun exposure, caution is crucial. The foremost step is to avoid the sun. Protective clothing, sun hats, sunglasses, etc., are essential in this regard.

Areas of the skin that cannot be covered by clothing should be protected with sunscreen. Mineral UV filters, such as z

inc oxide

and t

itanium dioxide

, are well-suited. However, there are also compatible chemical filters, offering the advantage of not causing whitening and not depositing in the outermost skin layer.

Sources

Ärzteblatt – 

Pubmed –  

Pubmed – 

Wikipedia –