The sun produces invisible rays called ultraviolet-A (UVA) or ultraviolet-B (UVB) that can damage the skin. Too much sun can cause sunburn, skin texture changes and skin cancers. Rashes also can be attributed to sunlight. Even on cloudy days, UV radiation reaches the earth and can cause skin damage.
Sunburn
Sunburn is a condition that occurs when the amount of exposure to the sun or another ultraviolet light source exceeds the ability of the body's protective pigment (melanin) to protect the skin.
Symptoms of sunburn include painful, reddened skin; however, sunburn may not be immediately apparent. By the time the skin starts to become painful and red, the damage has been done. Severe sunburn may result in swelling and blisters. People who are severely sunburned may develop a fever, chills and/or weakness. In rare cases, people with sunburn can go into shock.
Several days after sunburn, people with naturally fair skin may have peeling in the burned areas. Some itching may occur and the peeled areas are even more sensitive to sunburn for several weeks.
Sunburn Treatments
To ease the discomfort of sunburn:
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area(s).
- Take Aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve discomfort and inflammation.
- Apply a cooling gel or ointment containing aloe vera to the affected area(s).
In cases of severe sunburn or sunstroke, see your doctor immediately.
Photosensitivity
Most people's skin will burn if there is enough exposure to ultraviolet radiation. However, some people burn particularly easily or develop exaggerated skin reactions to sunlight. This condition is called photosensitivity. People often call this a sun allergy.
People with photosensitivity have an immunological response to light -- most often sunlight. They can break out in a rash when exposed to sunlight. The amount of exposure required to cause a reaction varies from person to person. Some people with photosensitivity are also affected by indoor fluorescent lighting.
Photosensitivity has been linked to:
- Contact with chemicals, fragrances or plants
- Medicines (including sulfonamides, tetracycline and thiazide diuretics) that are taken internally
- Herbs including St John's wort
- Autoimmune diseases such as Lupus Erythematosus
- Porphyria, a metabolic disorder that is usually hereditary
Symptoms of Photosensitivity
Symptoms may include a pink or red skin rash with blotchy blisters, scaly patches, or raised spots on areas directly exposed to the sun. Itching and burning may occur and the rash may last for several days. In some people, the reaction to sunlight gradually becomes less with subsequent exposures.
Photosensitivity Treatments
Some types of photosensitivity may respond to specific treatments such as oral beta-carotene, steroids, or other medications.
Polymorphous Light Eruption
Polymorphic light eruption (PMLE) is a condition in which skin rashes can develop after fairly limited sun exposure. PMLE usually affects females between the ages of 20 and 40. The condition also can affect children and less commonly, men. PMLE is more common in places where sun exposure is not common.
Symptoms of PMLE
The term 'polymorphic' refers to the fact that the rash can take many forms. A common kind of PMLE resembles groups of pink or red raised spots on the arms. Other areas, including the legs and chest, also may be affected. Sometimes the rash has blisters and larger dry, red patches. The rash is accompanied by a burning or itching that can last for several days.
PMLE Treatments
In severe cases, a doctor may recommend oral steroids or beta carotene to treat PMLE. Hydroxychloroquine, a medication used to treat skin conditions, sometimes is recommended.
Skin Care Tips
To protect your skin from the sun, consider these tips:
- Avoid the sun during peak hours (usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Dress sensibly. The tighter the weave of the clothing, the more sun protection it will offer. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
- Avoid deliberate sunbathing, including tanning beds.
- Use a sunscreen even on cloudy days. Sunscreens should be applied about 20 minutes before going outdoors. Even water-resistant sunscreens should be reapplied about every two hours, after swimming, or after strenuous activity.
Choosing a Sunscreen
Different sunscreens are appropriate for different people. For children under 6 months old, the best option is to keep them out of the sun if possible. Pregnant women are especially sun-sensitive because of increased estrogen levels that stimulate the production of melanin. Pregnant women should use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Dermatologists also advise pregnant women sit under an umbrella or in the shade when outdoors for long periods.
People with dark skin would benefit from sunscreen with an SPF of 8, unless they are in the sun for long periods of time. If so, a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher is recommended. Sunscreens with SPF numbers higher than 15 may benefit people who want to minimize their exposure to the sun, especially people who are fair-skinned.
When choosing a chemical sunscreen, try to find one that labeled "PABA-free." PABA is a chemical that is associated with skin irritation. Skin irritations can result from various sunscreen ingredients, so testing the sunscreen on a small potion of the skin before use is a good idea.
Reviewed by doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Dermatology
