What is sun rash?


For some people, exposure to the sun will result in a rash.


Most of us enjoy the sun, but some people's skin can be very sensitive to the sun in spring and summer, especially those with pale skin and red hair. For them, exposure to sunlight results in a rash which may recur throughout the summer.

What are the symptoms of sun rash?

A sun rash is seen as small, reddish blisters or small or large spots in areas that have been exposed to sunlight. Some areas, for example, the face, can be spared. This rash usually appears after minutes' or hours' exposure to the sun and can be extremely itchy.

Who is at most risk of getting sun rash?

It is commonly seen in children and young women and tends to be recurrent. Those who suffer from it get relief only during the winter. The condition usually disappears as they get older and reach their 40s or 50s.

What can be done to prevent sun rash?

It is very annoying to return from a holiday with a skin rash instead of a nice tan. Unfortunately, we do not know why some people are so sensitive to sunlight. However, there is one preventive treatment that can be offered.

The only remedy is to use a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF). The SPF indicates how effectively the cream protects you from harmful light.

People who suffer from sun rash or sun spots should start with a cream with an SPF of 15 to 25 and higher (eg Uvistat Ultrablock).

You may be able to use a cream with a lower SPF after one or two weeks when the skin has had time to get used to sunlight.

What is photoallergic dermatitis or drug-induced photosensitivity?

Photoallergic dermatitis can be caused by the action of sunlight on skin exposed to certain chemicals. Some substances such as perfume or soap can make the skin extra sensitive to the sun.

Photoallergic dermatitis can be prevented by avoiding contact with the substances that cause it. You may discuss this with your doctor before going on a holiday.

Drug-induced photosensitivity occurs when an individual develops a rash on exposure to the sun while taking a certain drug. Medicines that may cause this include: thiazide diuretics, tetracycline antibiotics, NSAIDs (painkillers), etc. Your doctor or pharmacist will be able to provide advice about medicines that are likely to cause this reaction.