Sun allergy

The most common form: an itchy rash with patches, small raised bumps or blisters that can appear hours to days after sun exposure. It typically occurs in spring or on holiday, when skin that is no longer used to sunlight is suddenly exposed to strong sunshine, for example during a beach holiday in winter.

An acne-like skin reaction with small, usually itchy bumps after UV exposure. Oily sun protection or skincare products can make the symptoms more likely.

Direct skin damage caused by UV radiation in combination with certain substances, such as medications, plant substances, or fragrances. For example, if sap from wild chervil comes into contact with the skin and the area is then exposed to sunlight, this can cause a painful skin reaction known as phytophotodermatitis.

A rare allergic skin reaction to substances that are altered by UV radiation, such as ingredients in cosmetics, medicationsor even sun protection products.

The term sun allergy is often used as an umbrella term for various skin reactions to sunlight. These include polymorphic light eruption, Mallorca acne and reactions to medications or cosmetics in combination with UV light. True photoallergic reactions are rare.

Typical signs include itchy, reddened areas of skin on parts of the body exposed to the sun. Small blisters, raised bumps or a patchy rash may also occur. Some people also experience a burning sensation. Symptoms often appear within a few hours to a few days after spending time in the sun. Areas that are suddenly exposed to a lot of sunlight are particularly commonly affected, such as the chest area, shoulders, arms or legs.

A sunburn is an actual burn to the skin. It mainly causes pain and appears within a few hours after too much sun exposure. The skin becomes red and hot, and a severe sunburn may also cause blisters.

With a sun allergy, the immune system reacts abnormally, often even to relatively small amounts of sunlight. Itching is usually the main symptom. The skin changes also tend to appear after a delay and may take the form of patches, bumps or blisters.

UV rays are primarily responsible, as they can trigger changes in the skin. In people with sensitive skin, these changes can lead to immune reactions that cause itching, redness or a rash.

People with fair skin are particularly commonly affected, especially if they also have red hair. Polymorphic light eruption is also more common in women than in men. Children can be affected too. Some people only develop symptoms occasionally, while others experience them almost every spring or at the start of their holidays. Once someone has had these symptoms, they often recur. The appearance of the rash can also vary from person to person.

After the winter months, the skin is no longer used to much sunlight. If it is then suddenly exposed to more intense UV radiation, it may react more sensitively. Many people find that their skin gradually becomes accustomed to the sun over the course of the summer and that the symptoms become less severe.

Yes. Not every skin reaction described as a “sun allergy” has the same cause. Medications, fragrances or ingredients in cosmetics can also trigger symptoms when combined with UV radiation. New, severe or recurring skin reactions to sunlight should therefore be assessed by a dermatologist. There are also a few rare internal diseases that can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight.

• Gradually get your skin used to the sun.
• Wear sun-protective clothing. As a rule of thumb, when you hold the garment up to the sun, as little light as possible should shine through.
• Seek shade, especially during the hours when solar radiation is particularly intense, usually between 11 am and 3 pm.
• Use sun protection products with a high level of UVA and UVB protection.
• People with sensitive skin should use well-tolerated, low-irritant products without fragrances or colourings, for example products carrying the Allergy Seal of Quality.

Cool compresses can help soothe the skin. For more severe itching, anti-inflammatory creams or antihistamine tablets may help. Further sun exposure should be avoided for the time being.

Many people experience recurring symptoms over several years, particularly in spring or while on holiday. Symptoms often improve over the course of the summer as the skin gradually becomes accustomed to the sun. They are generally not dangerous, but they can be very unpleasant.

If the symptoms are severe, keep recurring or it is unclear what is causing them, you should consult a dermatologist. This can help determine whether polymorphic light eruption is present or whether there is another underlying cause. Depending on the situation, anti-inflammatory creams or antihistamine tablets may be prescribed. In more severe cases, gradually getting the skin used to UV light under medical supervision may also be helpful, a process known as light hardening.