Allergic reactions can take various forms. One of the most unusual is sun allergy or polymorphic photodermatitis, which is quite common. It is most frequently seen in people with a genetic predisposition. However, those with very thin, sensitive skin prone to allergic reactions, fair-skinned redheads, and blondes are also at risk. Additionally,this allergy can be caused by external factors, such as substances that provoke a negative reaction when they come into contact with the skin.
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What is Sun Allergy?
This type of allergy develops due to increased sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation. It is an immune system reaction to sunlight. When UV rays hit the skin, a substance called histamine is produced. This is the body’s response to the allergen, which in this case is the sun’s rays. As a result, the skin becomes covered with a rash, turns red, becomes inflamed, and itches.
Which Body Parts Are Most Affected by Sun Allergy?
Sun allergy most commonly affects exposed areas of the body: the face, hands, neck, upper chest, and shoulders. However, polymorphic photodermatitis can appear anywhere, even on areas typically covered by clothing.
Types of Sun Allergy
There are several types of it:
- Polymorphous Light Eruption (PLE): The most common form, often found in women, teenagers, and young adults. Symptoms include various rashes, spots, redness, blisters, and papules. They appear on body parts usually covered by clothing, such as the chest, shoulders, and neck, and develop a few hours after sun exposure.
- Photocontact Dermatitis: Develops when substances like perfumes, deodorants, creams, essential oils, or household chemicals come into contact with the skin. Symptoms may appear days later.
- Actinic Prurigo: A hereditary form of such allergy.
- Solar Urticaria: A rare condition with typical hives symptoms that develops almost immediately after sun exposure, ranging from mild to severe. Most commonly found in young women.
Differentiating the causes of this issue is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How Does Polymorphic Photodermatitis Look?
Polymorphic photodermatitis has general symptoms and signs:
- Redness
- Rashes, small blisters, hives
- Skin irritation
- Peeling and crust formation
- Itching and pain
In severe cases, it can cause intense burning, pain, fever, headache, and nausea.
Helpful Tips from a Dermatologist to Prevent Sun Allergy
Look through this video and find out some useful tips from a professional dermatologist about how to prevent sun allergy:
When to Seek Immediate Medical Help
Seek medical attention if this allergy symptoms persist, if the rash spreads, if blisters turn red or darken, forming pigmentation, or if the rash does not subside after taking antihistamines. The same applies if the allergy is accompanied by headache, nausea, or fever.
How to Fight Sun Allergy?
To protect against sun, use the following methods:
- Apply sunscreen to all exposed areas, including ears, around the eyes, lips, neck, and hands. Choose water-resistant creams with SPF 30 or higher and protection against UVA and UVB rays. Reapply every 2 hours.
- Wear sunglasses with high protection.
- Wear light, but covering clothes, preferably with UV protection, like those made for surfers.
- Consume foods rich in beta-carotene to promote an even tan and protect against harmful UV radiation.

Avoid being outdoors during peak sun intensity and stay on the shady side when moving around the city if you have sun allergy.
Conclusions
To avoid suffering from sun allergy and prevent the need for complex and expensive treatments, protect your skin in advance: use sunscreens, wear protective clothing and hats, and avoid direct sunlight.
FAQs About Sun Allergy
Sun allergy, or polymorphic photodermatitis, is the immune system’s reaction to UV radiation.
It causes rashes, redness, blisters, itching, and pain on the skin.
Antihistamines in creams, ointments, tablets, or injections (in severe cases) are used to treat polymorphic photodermatitis.
Use sunscreens, cover exposed skin, and wear hats.