From a medical point of view, it does not exist, the sun allergy. At least not in technical language. But millions of people suffer after exposure to the sun, and you need to know if you have sun allergy symptoms. What millions of people suffer year after year, is so popularly called, but the rash, itching or pustules conceal several single, possible diseases. If you discover you are experiencing sun allergy symptoms, it’s best to try and get a doctor’s diagnosis on what the actual problem might be, so you can treat it properly and not continue to suffer — or have it turn into something perhaps much worse if left untreated and allowed to worsen.
Polymorphic photodermatosis (PLD)
This form of sun allergy symptoms as a skin irritation from sunlight is the most common variant. It forms a few hours to days after sunbathing and leads to very itchy, reddish spots, blisters, wheals or nodules. Hence the name polymorphic (Greek poly: “much”, morph: “shaped”). The exact processes in the body are not clear.
Often the symptoms occur, however, if the skin was previously exposed to intense sunlight for a long period of time. The best relief: Get out of the sun and get an antihistamine (pharmacy). You should then discuss the further therapy with the dermatologist.
Photoallergic skin reaction
In this skin disease, not only sunlight is the bad guy. Only in connection with certain substances from cosmetics, perfumes or medicines it comes to the unsightly reaction. It is believed that these substances combine with the UV-A rays and cause an allergic reaction in the immune system.
The so-called Mallorca acne
Here one does not tolerate the sun in combination with sweat and high-fat sunscreens. Fats and emulsifiers cause acne-like pustules on the décolleté, shoulders and arms. Therefore, better switch to fat-free protection.
