Almost 10% of the world's population has a sun allergy. This condition, called photosensitivity or polymorphic lucite, causes skin rashes, itching and a burning sensation. It is often mistaken for a simple sunburn, but is in fact a specific immune reaction.

This article explains the causes, symptoms and treatments of sun allergy. You'll also discover how to avoid photosensitivity reactions. Whether you're affected or just curious, this article is for you.

Key points to remember

• Sun allergy affects around 10% of the world's population
• It manifests itself as a rash, itching and a burning sensation.
• Causes may be drug-induced or related to underlying diseases.
• Diagnosis is essential for appropriate management
• Prevention involves avoiding prolonged exposure to UV rays

What is sun allergy?

Sun allergy, or benign summer lucite, is a skin reaction to UV rays. It causes itching and a burning sensation. It happens even after a short time in the sun.

Definition of sun allergy

This allergy makes the skin very sensitive to UV rays. Sufferers have a strong cutaneous reaction to the sun. This reaction may start immediately or later, and may last several days.

The symptoms of sun allergy are :

• Skin rash
• Itching
• Redness
• Burning sensation
• Small blisters

The difference between sun allergy and sunburn

It's important to understand the difference between sun allergy and sunburn. Sunburn is a burn caused by too much sun. Sun allergy is a specific immune reaction.

Sun allergy	Sunburn
Immunological reaction	Burns caused by excessive exposure
May appear after short exposure	Generally requires prolonged exposure
Skin rash, itching, burning sensation	Redness, pain, blisters in severe cases

In conclusion, sun allergy is a specific cutaneous reaction to UV rays. It differs from sunburn in its mechanism and symptoms.

Causes of sun allergy

Sun allergy, or lucite polymorphhe, has several causes. UV rays are the main trigger. But certain factors can increase the risk. Let's take a look at the main causes of this allergy.

Genetic factors

Heredity is an important factor in predisposition to sun allergy. If your family has cases, you're more likely to have it. Genetic variations make the skin more sensitive to UV rays, increasing the risk.

Photosensitizing drugs

Some medications make the skin sensitive to the sun, causing photosensitivity. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and diuretics are among them. Protect your skin from the sun if you are taking them.

Underlying diseases

Lupus and other autoimmune diseases can increase the risk. Lupus attacks healthy tissues, including the skin. Sufferers are more sensitive to the sun.

Vitamin D deficiency and low melanin production can also increase the risk. Vitamin D is crucial for the skin. Melanin protects against UV rays.

Consult a doctor if you think you have a sun allergy. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help you manage this condition.

Cause	Description
Genetic factors	Specific genetic variations make the skin more sensitive to UV rays
Photosensitizing drugs	Antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, diuretics
Autoimmune diseases	Lupus, increasing sensitivity to the sun
Vitamin D deficiency	Essential vitamin for healthy skin
Low melanin production	Pigment that naturally protects the skin from UV rays

Symptoms of sun allergy

Symptoms of sun allergy vary from person to person. They include a red, itchy rash on exposed areas. You may also feel a burning or tingling sensation, and see swelling of the skin.

Severe cases can lead to blisters or skin lesions. This causes great discomfort. Hives, with their red, swollen patches, are a common symptom.

• The face
• The neck
• Cleavage
• The arms
• The legs

A dermatologist should be consulted if these symptoms appear. This will enable a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms vary in severity. Here is a table to help you assess their severity:

Severity	Skin rash	Itching	Burn	Blisters	Edema	Urticaria
Slight	Limited, red	Slight	Absent	Absent	Absent	Absent
Moderate	Extended, red	Moderate	Slight	Rare	Light	Located
Severe	Generalized, bright red	Intense	Strong	Numerous	Important	Extended

When faced with a sun allergy, protecting your skin is crucial. Avoid prolonged direct exposure to UV rays. Appropriate medical treatment, prescribed by a dermatologist, can relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Sun allergy treatments

If you have symptoms of sun allergy, consult a dermatologist. He or she will perform a clinical examination and skin tests to diagnose the condition. Once the diagnosis has been made, a number of treatments will be suggested.

Prevention and sun protection

The best way to combat sun allergy is to prevent it. Limit your exposure to UV rays, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and a hat.

You can apply sun creams, or a UVA/UVB sunscreen. This protects you from skin reactions. However, when applying sunscreens, you should be aware of the following:

• Harmful chemical components in these creams for humans
• Sunscreens have an impact on cutaneous vitamin D production by reducing its absorption capacity.

The role of Vitamin D in health

Vitamin D plays several essential roles in human health:

• Bone health
• Immune system
• Muscle function
• Cardiovascular health
• Chronic disease prevention
• Mental health
• Cancer prevention and treatment

The main source of vitamin D is exposure to the sun, as the skin produces this vitamin when exposed to UVB rays. However, it can also be obtained from certain foods (such as oily fish, liver, eggs and fortified dairy products) and supplements.

It's important to maintain adequate levels of vitamin D, but also to be careful not to consume too much, as excessively high levels can lead to undesirable effects.

Drug treatments and phototherapy

If you experience itching or inflammation, an antihistamine may help, such as the homeopathic histaminum. Sometimes, phototherapy is used to gradually desensitize you. This method must be used under medical supervision.

Natural treatments such as aloe vera or coconut oil can soothe irritation. Good moisturizing and a diet rich in antioxidants will also strengthen your skin's defenses.

Nutrition and its importance in preparing the skin

As this article is being written, we're in the middle of a summer vacation that's prone to sunburn and sun allergies. That's why it's important to understand that skin is prepared from the inside out, through good nutrition and adequate hydration.

To optimally prepare your skin for the sun, you need to avoid processed foods and vegetable oils, which oxidize easily. Instead, eat a Mediterranean diet rich in meat, fish, vegetables and fruit. Eating plenty of fruit and drinking enough water is key to preparing your skin and avoiding allergies and sunburn.

Sun allergy: grandma's recipe

Here are some grandmotherly recipes for sun allergies

• Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Ingredients: Fresh aloe vera gel.
• Instructions: Apply aloe vera gel directly to affected areas. Leave on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water. Repeat two or three times a day.
• Green tea: Green tea contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.
• Ingredients: 2-3 green tea bags.
• Instructions: Prepare an infusion with the green tea bags and leave to cool. Soak a clean cloth in the infusion and apply it to the affected areas. Leave on for 15-20 minutes. Repeat several times a day.
• Cucumber: Cucumber has refreshing and moisturizing properties.
• Ingredients: 1 fresh cucumber.
• Instructions: Peel and grate the cucumber. Apply the pulp directly to the affected skin and leave on for 20-30 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water. Repeat two or three times a day.
• Coconut oil: Coconut oil has moisturizing and soothing properties.
• Ingredients: Virgin coconut oil.
• Instructions: Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the affected areas and massage gently until absorbed. Use two or three times a day.

These remedies may help relieve sun allergy symptoms, but they are not a substitute for medical advice. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a health care professional.

FAQ

What's the difference between a sun allergy and sunburn?

Sunburn is a burn caused by too much sun. Sun allergy is an immune reaction to UV rays. Allergy sufferers experience itching and burning after only a short time in the sun.

What are the risk factors for sun allergy?

Risks include an allergic family, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, lack of vitamin D and low melanin levels.

How does a sun allergy manifest itself?

Symptoms include a red rash, itching, burning, blistering, edema and hives. They affect the face, neck, décolleté, arms and legs.

How is sun allergy treated?

Avoid the sun, wear covering clothing and use sunscreen. Antihistamines relieve itching. Phototherapy can help. Aloe vera and moisturizing are beneficial.

Can sun allergies be prevented?

Prevention is crucial. Limit exposure to hot weather, wear long clothing, a hat and sunglasses. A diet rich in antioxidants boosts your defenses.

References

NIH - National Cancel Institute, Vitamin D and Cancer, https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/vitamin-d-fact-sheet