Allergy to the sun is not quite correctly called a reaction that manifests itself in certain people when exposed to sunlight. It is correct to call it - photodermatosis, or solar dermatitis.

There is an assumption that this allergy does not appear due to exposure to the sun, because it does not contain protein in its beam.

In this case, the sun's rays are attributed only to a certain factor. It is believed that the sun can only affect a certain type of people who suffer from diseases of the systemic organs and have accumulated a large number of allergens in their bodies.

In this article, we will tell you about sun allergy - its symptoms and treatment methods, as well as consider detailed photos.

Causes

Allergic or toxic effect ultraviolet (sun) rays are manifested when they combine with substances already on the skin - exogenous photodermatitis, with substances found in skin cells - endogenous photodermatitis.

Sunlight, in principle, cannot be an allergen, but it is capable of provoking several types of aggressive reactions not only of the immune system, but also of the whole organism:

1. Photoallergy or sun allergy - photosensitivity.
2. Phototraumatic reaction - elementary from overly "zealous" sunburn.
3. Phototoxic reaction - photodermatosis caused by the interaction of ultraviolet radiation and certain types of drugs, plants.

All types of reactions are manifested by varying degrees of skin pigmentation, in addition, in people with a tendency to allergies, even a seemingly safe half-hour exposure to the sun can cause severe allergies.

TO internal factors development of photodermatitis include:

1. Receiving a number pharmacological preparations such as hormonal birth control pills high in estrogen, certain antibiotics, diuretics, antidepressants, etc.;
2. Deficiency of vitamins in the body;
3. Reduced immunity.

TO external reasons it is customary to include the use of various creams and other cosmetics, which contain certain components, such as sandalwood oil, musk, etc.

Tend to appear photodermatosis:

• Small children;
• people with fair skin;
• pregnant women;
• those who have undergone cosmetic procedures the day before using cadmium salts (chemical peeling, tattooing).
• persons who abuse tanning salons;

There are also substances that, when ingested, can cause photodermatitis. This group includes individual medications and some foods.

• antibiotics (doxycycline, tetracycline);
• drugs for the treatment of cardiac diseases;
• aspirin;
• antibacterial drugs;
• ibuprofen;
• antidepressants;
• diuretics;
• tranquilizers;
• oral contraceptives that are high in estrogen.

Therefore, if you cannot interrupt taking any medications, consult your doctor about the risk of photodermatitis while taking them.

Sun allergy symptoms

Allergy to the sun, like any other pathology, has a number of its symptoms and signs. Conventionally, it is possible to distinguish local and general manifestations from them.

The main symptoms photodermatosis:

• redness and inflammation of the skin;
• peeling of the skin;
• often accompanied by intense itching and burning;
• rashes can be in the form of folliculitis (abscesses) or papules.

Often this condition does not develop immediately. Unlike a burn, it can occur several hours after you left the beach, and in some cases even after returning from the resort. A phototoxic reaction can occur several hours after exposure to the sun, while a photoallergic reaction can occur even several days after exposure to the sun.

Common symptoms:

1. An increase in temperature indicates the ingress of toxic compounds from the skin into the bloodstream;
2. Dizziness;
3. as a result of the ingestion of an allergen into the bloodstream, it leads to fainting.

It should be noted that minor skin lesions rarely lead to general symptoms of sun allergy. What to do if you find this symptomatology in yourself, we will consider a little below.

See also: at home.

Sun allergy photo

You can see what a sun allergy looks like on these photos:

What to do in this case?

Before treating sun allergies, other influencing factors must be excluded. They also help. These are antihistamines that relieve itching and swelling. You can buy them at your nearest pharmacy without a doctor's prescription.

Sun allergy treatment

There is no one-size-fits-all cure for sun allergy. In therapy, it is important to adhere to an individual approach. How to treat sun allergies will depend on the location of the inflammation on the skin, the severity of the rash, and the presence of general symptoms.

In most cases, the treatment program includes the following components:

1. Non-hormonal creams and ointments for external use:, desitin, etc.
2. Corticosteroid drugs: are prescribed for severe forms of photodermatitis and only as prescribed by a doctor.
3. Ointments based on zinc, methyluracil, hydrocortisone.
4. Antihistamines: "", "", "Erius", "" and others (see).
5. Vitamin therapy, immunotherapy: the doctor prescribes immunostimulating drugs that will help to strengthen defensive reactions organism.
6. Enterosorbents:, Polyphepan,. They help to quickly cleanse the body of toxins and allergens.
7. To restore liver function, the doctor prescribes hepatoprotectors: "", "Glutargin", "Silibor", "and other herbal preparations.

Treatment depends on the specific type allergic reaction... In mild cases, simply avoiding sun exposure for a few days may be enough to relieve symptoms.

Prophylaxis

If you are allergic to the sun, what to do, how to deal with it? First of all, it is important to understand that any disease is better prevented than cured. That's why:

1. Medication containing photosensitizing substances should be used with caution.
2. Start sunbathing with short stays in the open sun, in the first days it should be only 10-15 minutes.
3. With a predisposition to sun allergies, it is recommended to wear clothes made of natural fabrics, covering the body from exposure to direct ultraviolet radiation.
4. If the allergy is chronic, before the start of the spring-summer season, you can start taking medications with photoprotective properties, of course, after consulting a doctor.

How to treat allergies with folk remedies?

If it is impossible to consult a doctor, you can try using folk remedies, which will help alleviate the pain and itching of the skin at first.

1. For example, use juice from cucumbers, potatoes or cabbage leaves, as they have softening properties and promote rapid healing of wounds and skin lesions.
2. Extracts from celandine and calendula are used, with the help of which cold compresses are made.

Many do not know how to properly treat allergies and in most cases self-medicate, but in no case should this be allowed. After detecting the first signs of the disease, you should immediately consult a doctor. Neglecting treatment can lead to eczema, which is much more difficult to treat.

Allergy to the sun - psychosomatics

Naturally, everyone with allergies wants to know as much as possible about this disease and, of course, to be cured. It should be noted that in addition to biological causes and various external factors, psychosomatics (human emotions) plays an important role in the occurrence of allergic reactions. It is one thing when a person develops an allergy at an advanced age due to slagging of the body, which requires systemic cleansing of the blood, intestines, and liver. An absolutely different option, when a person in his head contains a mass of false attitudes, fears, negative emotions, doubts.

Most likely, everyone has once noticed the fact that after a long emotional overstrain either severe stress he usually got sick with something. At a young age, it is usually colds, the root cause of which a person finds in natural stimuli for him - freezing, draft, water from the refrigerator, air conditioner, etc. At an older age, when a person is already endowed with some kind of chronic diseases, their manifestation is attributed to the usual predicted exacerbation and is taken for granted without surprise.

In fact, the reason may lie in a strong emotional weakening of the body, which provokes a decrease in human immunity. So, various phobias and fears can serve as the causes of sun allergies, panic attacks, mental explosion and strong antagonism. Manifestations of this type of allergy can occur at times when you feel extremely uncomfortable sunbathing on the beach in a swimsuit, ashamed of your body. Or you are very annoyed by the fact that you have pale skin that instantly burns in the sun, and there are so many beautiful tanned bodies around. The bases can be very diverse. Analyze everything thoroughly yourself, find the reason in yourself.

Sunny warm weather usually evokes positive associations with outdoor recreation, the sea, the beach. The sun activates metabolic processes, increases the production of vitamin D necessary for a person, improves mood and well-being. However, 20% of the world's population has a solar allergy, which is also called photodermatosis or solar dermatitis.

Causes

There is an assumption that the Sun itself cannot be considered an allergen, since its rays do not contain protein. But under certain conditions, ultraviolet (sun) rays can cause a reaction in people who have already accumulated a large number of allergens in the body or suffer from certain diseases. UV radiation is a provocateur of the excitation of basophils - immune cells. They stimulate the excess release of enzymes - histamine, serotonin, which, penetrating into the skin, activate allergic processes.

The toxic and allergic effect of ultraviolet radiation can manifest itself in the case of its contact with substances already contained in skin cells (for example, drugs). This is endogenous photodermatitis. If the interaction occurs with substances on the surface of the skin (for example, cosmetics) - exogenous photodermatitis.

Varieties of aggressive reaction

It manifests itself in several forms:

1. Phototraumatic... This is the most common form. It is a common sunburn and occurs in people who, for some reason (intentionally or inadvertently), have been in the sun for too long. Any person, both allergic and absolutely healthy, can "get burned". Often such burns are observed in summer resorts, when vacationers, trying to quickly get a beautiful tan, neglect simple safety rules. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation triggers the immune system in an emergency manner. In addition to enzymes, it begins to produce an excess amount of the protective pigment melanin. In this case, a failure occurs in the functioning of the adrenal glands and kidneys.
2. Phototoxic... The reaction is provoked by photosensitizing substances - cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations, some food products. It is more common in women and children, as they use cosmetics more often.
3. Photoallergic... Rare. In the body, substances are synthesized in large quantities that cause swelling and inflammation. It develops both in a matter of minutes and after 2-3 days. Requires mandatory medical care because it is life-threatening.

Provoking factors

Sun allergies can occur anywhere there is UV rays, including tanning beds.

At risk are also people with very light skin, freckles, red hair, light eyes, who naturally have poor production of melanin.

The second group includes pregnant women. Due to the increase in estrogen levels, their skin may itch and flake, and pigmentation may occur. Increased danger for those who abuse the tanning bed. It is undesirable to be in the Sun for those who have recently undergone the procedure of tattooing, chemical peeling.

Children are most sensitive to allergies after the sun, especially those under 3 years of age. Their skin is delicate and sensitive. It is believed that pathological changes in the skin at this age are irreversible.

Photodermatitis can appear if medications are taken:

• some contraceptives;
• antipsychotics, antidepressants;
• cardiovascular drugs;
• diuretics;
• tetracycline group;
• drugs that lower blood sugar;
• a number of anti-inflammatory drugs;
• antibacterial agents, etc.

External agents can provoke a reaction:

• cosmetics, especially those containing sandalwood, bergamot or lime oils, musk;
• a medicine or cream whose ingredient is St. John's wort;
• retinol creams;
• perfume;
• products with fatty acids;
• some antifungal ointments etc.

The provocation can be intolerance to some foods. Even those who are not allergic to these products, being under intense radiation, should use them with caution:

• alcohol, especially red wine;
• citrus fruits, carrots, celery, tomato, pomegranate, figs, parsley, as well as freshly squeezed juices from them.

Symptoms

The rate of manifestation of symptoms can depend on many factors: the cause of their occurrence, the person's age, state of health, etc. Time ranges from 1 hour to 2-3 days. It should be borne in mind that not only any exposed parts of the body can be affected, but also areas under clothing.

The main symptoms are:

1. Redness of the skin.
2. Burn blisters.
3. Burning, peeling, itching.
4. Crusts, scales, sometimes bleeding.
5. Swelling, bumps on the skin that hurt and itch.

General symptoms occur with significant skin lesions. In such a condition, a person may need urgent medical attention.

Possible:

1. Dizziness.
2. Temperature increase.
3. Bronchospasm (choking).
4. Chills.
5. Nausea, vomiting.
6. A sharp decline blood pressure, fainting.

Treatment

It is important to know what to do with photodermatosis. This requires an individual approach. It is necessary to take into account the severity of symptoms, the patient's condition, etc. In mild cases, you can cope on your own; in severe cases, a doctor should treat the patient.

First aid

First of all, it is necessary for the victim to leave a sunny place. If this is not possible, cover the burned areas with a cloth. You can apply a towel soaked in cool water to the affected areas, or take a cool shower. You cannot use any detergents.

You need to drink plenty of water to eliminate dehydration. If the body temperature is above 38 degrees, it is allowed to drink an antipyretic agent. It is necessary to take an antihistamine pill or drops, better than the third generation, according to the instructions. To relieve pain faster, apply a compress with a 2% anesthetic solution for a while. In the future, you need to use an ointment for allergies to the Sun. It is strictly forbidden to smear burned areas with oil and alcohol solutions, as well as pierce blisters.

Means that are usually used

Therapy may include:

1. Antihistamine tablets, drops - Zyrtec, Tavegil, Erius, Kestin, Lordestin, Fenistil, etc.
2. To relieve itching: ointments, creams and gels - Panthenol, Fenistil-gel, Desitin, Bepanten, etc.
3. Hormonal drugs that quickly remove lesions - Hydrocortisone, Sinaflan. They are prescribed by a doctor. Children cannot use them.
4. Burn treatment - Psilo-balm, Solcoseryl, etc.
5. Vitamin and mineral complexes.
6. To remove toxins - Polysorb, activated carbon, Enterosgel, Smecta, etc.

Traditional methods

They can relieve the patient's condition, but do not replace the main treatment. It should be used with caution, since the appearance of additional allergies is possible.

1. Grate raw potatoes or fresh cucumber, squeeze the juice, moisten soft tissue, apply to burnt places in the form of a compress for 15 minutes.
2. Wipe the burns with kefir, sour cream, you can add boiled mashed potatoes, keep for 15-20 minutes.
3. 2 tbsp a series of either lavender, chamomile, calendula, brew with a glass of boiling water, cool, make lotions.
4. Watermelon juice, mixed in equal proportions with cucumber juice, helps well.
5. Apply cabbage leaves to burns.

Prophylaxis

You must adhere to the following rules:

• sunbathe in the morning and evening hours;
• start with short sunbathing - no more than 15-20 minutes and gradually increase their duration. It is better for children to start sunbathing from 5-10 minutes;
• during the period of the most aggressive radiation from 10 to 14 hours, try to be in the shade;
• wear a hat, sunglasses, if possible, cover open areas of the body. It is desirable that the fabric is made of natural materials and light colors;
• apply sunscreen, taking into account its SPF. The more sensitive the skin, the higher the SPF needed. The product is applied half an hour before leaving home and is renewed every 2 hours;
• before sunbathing, do not apply perfumes, deodorants.
• discuss with your doctor if you can sunbathe if there are contraindications and medication is being taken.

Sun allergy requires precautions. If you follow all the recommendations, the rest will pass without unpleasant consequences. After all, complete intolerance to sunlight is an extremely rare case, and even an allergy sufferer can gently sunbathe in the shade.

In summer, the sun pleases us with its warmth, and not a single fashionista will refuse a beautiful bronze tan. However, some people may develop allergies from exposure to sunlight. Next, you will find out why an allergic reaction occurs and what are the methods of dealing with it.

Allergy to the sun is manifested with a specific reaction of the human skin to exposure to ultraviolet rays. In medicine, the disease is called photodermatitis or photodermatosis. According to statistics, approximately 20% of people suffer from this disease.

Why is there a sun allergy?

Undoubtedly, the sun's rays are not an allergen. Why does allergy appear? Ultraviolet rays can provoke photodermatitis only when they interact with substances on or inside the skin.

When photodermatitis occurs, the causes must be sought in the general condition of the body. Attention should be paid to the functioning of the kidneys and liver. Problems with the work of these organs appear on the skin.

Allergies can also be triggered by taking medications, certain foods, and using perfumes and creams.

The risk group for photodermatitis includes:

Therefore, people whose skin is prone to the manifestation of photodermatosis should be attentive to their health condition and carefully select sunscreens.

What plants, medications and foods can trigger allergies?

People prone to photodermatitis before applying new cosmetics or medical supplies it is necessary to carefully read the annotation and composition. If the description indicates that photodermatosis may occur, then the time spent in direct sunlight should be shortened.

When choosing cosmetics, you need to pay attention to the content of such components as essential oils, mercury compounds, boric acid.

These substances can increase the manifestation of the symptoms of the disease.

The list of medicines, the intake of which can cause allergies in rare cases:

Cosmetics, the composition of which can cause photodermatosis:

• perfumes, lipsticks, body creams with essential oils;
• sunscreens with high content PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid);
• antibacterial soap.

The cause of photodermatitis (namely, meadow dermatitis) can be meadow plants.

They secrete special substances (furocoumarins), which, settling on the human skin, interact with the sun's rays.

As a result, skin irritation and rashes can occur. Such plants include:

• quinoa;
• nettle;
• hogweed;
• buckwheat;
• fig tree;
• fraxinella.

Also, some food products can have a provocative effect:

• citrus fruits (orange, lemon);
• carrot juice;
• greens: parsley, dill, celery;
• alcohol;
• coffee, cocoa;
• chocolate;
• foods high in artificial additives.

Before going out into the sun, it is advisable not to consume the foods and medicines listed above. This is especially true for people prone to photodermatosis.

Types of photodermatitis

Sun allergies can be triggered by different reactions:

1. Phototraumatic reactions are the body's response to prolonged exposure to the hot sun. Sunburn on the skin is possible. This reaction occurs when exposed to sunlight from 11 to 16 hours;
2. Phototoxic reactions - can occur in a person due to the intake of drugs or products that provoke photodermatitis;
3. Photoallergic reactions are an abnormal reaction of the body to ultraviolet rays. Papules and vesicles appear on the skin. With such a reaction of the skin, it is impossible to appear in the sun during the day.

Of course, the sun's rays have a beneficial effect on the human body, saturating it with vitamin D. However, in some cases ultraviolet radiation can cause photodermatitis. In order to distinguish a common sunburn from an allergy, you need to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of photodermatitis.

How is sun allergy manifested in adults and children?

The symptoms of photodermatitis can vary and vary depending on the cause of the allergy and the age of the person. However, the most common signs of photodermatitis are:

With photodermatitis in children, it can also worsen general state health:

• a slight increase in body temperature;
• lacrimation;
• nasal congestion;
• swelling of the face.

If you or your child find several of the above symptoms, you should consult a doctor for advice. The doctor will diagnose and prescribe treatment.

First aid

At the first signs of allergy (the skin began to itch and spots appeared), it is necessary to move into the shade or go into a ventilated room. Reddened skin should be covered with a damp cotton cloth.

It is advisable to make cold compresses from a decoction of chamomile or calendula. The victim is given plenty of cool liquid.

If an antihistamine is available, then it can be taken with severe attacks (the child can have suprastinex or fexofenadine).

If possible, you should contact the nearest medical facility.

With a severe form of photodermatosis (severe edema, high temperature), you need to call an ambulance succulently.

Diagnostics and treatment methods for a child with sun allergies

A rash on the skin of a child can be caused by various infectious diseases... Therefore, treatment begins only after making sure that the baby is allergic to the sun.

A qualified doctor will write an appointment for blood and urine tests. Then a light test is done. Small areas of the body are irradiated with ultraviolet light for several minutes and the reaction of the skin is monitored. If the doctor doubts the diagnosis of photodermatitis, then an analysis of scrapings from the skin is prescribed.

When the doctor confirms the diagnosis, complex treatment photodermatosis.

External remedies are used to soothe the skin:

Prescribe the intake of antihistamines:

1. Suprastin;
2. Diazolin;

When bathing, use ordinary baby soap. Dress the child in closed clothes before going out into the sun during the day and strengthen the child's immune system.

The duration of treatment and the final result depends on how much the child's parents understand the importance of the problem. Otherwise, therapy will drag on for a long time and lead to complications in the baby's health.

What treatment is provided for adults

Photodermatitis in adults also requires adequate medical treatment. After all, it is almost impossible to avoid the influence of ultraviolet rays in the warm season. For this reason, consultations of doctors are needed: a dermatologist and an allergist.

If there are pathologies at work internal organs, then the necessary therapy is prescribed. At the same time, treatment is being carried out aimed at eliminating the external manifestations of allergies. Typically, your doctor will prescribe the following drugs.

Allergy creams:

Antihistamines:

• Claritin;
• Tavegil;
• Suprastin;
• Cetrin;
• Zodak;

Vitamins:

• group B.

The duration of photodermatosis therapy can range from a couple of days to several weeks. It depends on the severity of the disease and the adequacy of the prescribed treatment.

Traditional medicine as an assistant in the treatment of allergies

If symptoms of photodermatitis occur and you are unable to see a doctor, you can try traditional medicine:

Folk remedies have a cooling and anti-inflammatory effect. However, as soon as possible, you should see a doctor.

Naturally, it is impossible to exclude the effect of sunlight on human skin. But it is quite possible to reduce the likelihood of photodermatosis by following these tips:

1. Before leaving the house (for half an hour), you must apply a sunscreen spray to the skin;
2. For people prone to sun allergies, it is better not to use perfumes, essential oils and deodorants in the summer;
3. When resting near water bodies after swimming, be sure to wipe the skin with a towel from moisture;
4. With a tendency to photodermatitis in a hot period, it is necessary to start taking antihistamines in advance;
5. In the summer it is necessary to take vitamin complexes;
6. For light and sensitive skin, direct exposure to the sun should be avoided; on the beach, relax in the shade;
7. On vacation, it is better to sunbathe before 11 am and after 4 pm.

If you follow all the precautions, then being in the sun will turn into a joy without irritations and allergic reactions.

For more information on sun allergy, see the following video.

About one in five people have experienced some degree of sun allergy. It is quite unpleasant when, instead of enjoying your vacation, the warm sea and the bright sun, you have to constantly look for shade or even restrict access to the street.

Allergy to the sun is a common name for a disease such as photodermatitis. Its occurrence practically does not depend on the duration of exposure to the sun or the intensity of its radiation, since ultraviolet rays themselves do not contain any allergen. It is caused by an increased sensitivity of the body to the sun, which can occur for a number of reasons.

Why sun allergies appear

The toxic effect of sunlight can manifest itself when interacting with substances that are on the skin (exogenous photodermatitis) or in the skin (endogenous photodermatitis).

Exogenous photodermatitis- This is the reaction of the body that occurs when special substances - photosensitizers, located on the surface of the skin, come into contact with the sun. Photosensitizers are found in some drugs, foods, plants, cosmetics, and chemicals.

So, an allergic reaction can be caused by:

• cream applied to the skin before going out in the sun, as well as deodorant or perfume. Interestingly, photosensitizers can also be found in some tanning creams (in particular, para-aminobenzoic acid - PAVA), so you should carefully study the composition of such products before buying;
• medications(acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, antidepressants, antibiotics, diuretics, some medicines for of cardio-vascular system, antihistamines, oral contraceptives);
• citrus taken shortly before going out into the open sun;
• chemical peeling or tattoo- such procedures are not recommended in the hot season;
• polyunsaturated fatty acid (bergamot, rose, sandalwood, parsley oil, boric acid, mercury preparations);
• alcohol.

Endogenous photodermatitis are quite rare, they are caused by diseases of the human immune system and metabolic disorders, including diseases of the liver and kidneys, pancreas and thyroid gland.

Varieties of this type of dermatitis are solar eczema, solar scabies, pigmented xeroderma, porphyria, polymorphic photodermatosis. There is also such a disease as Gunther's syndrome - a kind of allergy to light, when a person does not tolerate sunlight or daylight, he has wounds and cracks in his skin. Today it cannot be completely cured.

Sun allergies can appear at any age, but the risk group is:

• people with fair skin and hair;
• Small children;
• pregnant women;
• people suffering from any other form of allergy;
• amateurs frequent visits solarium.

It should also be remembered that traveling to another country, where solar activity is greater than in the usual place of residence, can provoke allergies to the sun.

Symptoms

People who are especially sensitive to sunlight may feel the first signs of an allergic reaction a few minutes after exposure to the sun. In less sensitive people, allergies can appear within a few hours or even 1-2 days. The following symptoms may indicate an allergic reaction to the sun:

• a small, red skin rash that looks like hives;
• redness and dryness of the skin, most often the face and décolleté, but it is also possible on other parts of the body;
• swelling;
• severe itching;
• feeling that the skin is "burning";
• purulent rashes or bleeding - not common, may appear when scratching the skin.

In the photo below, you will see examples of how allergies to the sun manifest themselves.

Skin rashes can be localized both in places of open contact with the sun (on the face, hands), and in areas hidden under clothing.

In addition to a reaction on the skin, headaches, inflammation of the border of the lips, nausea and even fainting are possible. Occasionally cases of conjunctivitis are recorded.

Photodermatitis is similar to sunburn, but with burns there is no rash, and itching appears later, after a few days, when the burnt skin begins to peel off.

How and how to treat sun allergy?

If you do not deal with the treatment of allergies, then complications such as eczema may develop. If photodermatitis does not appear for the first time, it is strictly forbidden to sunbathe and in general you should limit your exposure to the sun as much as possible.

If redness, rash and itching occur after sunbathing, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible: allergist, dermatologist, immunologist. He will conduct an examination and prescribe a suitable treatment regimen. It usually includes both external and internal products. It can be:

• ointments, including hormonal ones;
• tablets - antihistamines;
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• vitamins E, C, B vitamins;
• antioxidants;
• enterosorbents.

In the early days of allergies, the condition can be relieved by following procedures and folk remedies:

• wet cloth wraps;
• taking soda baths, no more than 30 minutes;
• lubricating problem areas of the skin with aloe juice, applying compresses from grated potatoes or cucumber, cabbage leaves;
• applying almond oil with menthol to the body (fresh tomato juice also helps);
• compresses from decoctions and infusions of chamomile, oak bark, juniper, mint.

In addition, a certain regimen should be adhered to during the treatment period:

• drink more fluids to prevent dehydration and speed up the elimination of toxins;
• do not appear in the sun for several days;
• wear as close-fitting clothes as possible;
• limit the use of cosmetics or replace them with others, with a safer composition.

Depending on the severity of the allergic reaction, treatment can last from several days to several weeks. All therapeutic measures can be carried out at home, but under the obligatory supervision of a doctor. With the correct and responsible approach to treatment, this problem can be quickly overcome.

Preventive measures

Of course, it is impossible to completely protect yourself from the manifestations of solar allergy, but following simple rules will reduce the risk of its occurrence:

• try not to be outside during the day, when the sun is most active;
• it is better to sunbathe before 11 and after 16 hours. at this time you will get a beautiful tan and will not burn;
• spend more time in the shade, wear a hat;
• dry in the shade after swimming in the pond, as wet skin increases the effect of sunlight;
• do not rub the skin with a towel, so as not to further injure it;
• pay attention to the composition of sunscreens, and also choose products with high level protection and apply them to the skin for 15-20 minutes. before going out into the sun;
• do not use decorative cosmetics and creams before going to the beach, do not consume citrus fruits and alcohol;
• increase your intake of foods rich in calcium, it reduces the likelihood of allergic reactions.

If you or your close relatives have a history of any form of allergy, then the sun should be treated with extreme caution.

In the summer, many go to the sea to get an even tan. But sometimes it happens that a rash from the sun appears on the surface of the skin. It is associated with increased sensitivity of the body to the sun's rays.

The body's reaction is allergic. Manifestations can be noted both a few hours and days after exposure to the sun. Treatment should be prescribed by a doctor after assessing the condition of the skin and making a diagnosis.

Types of reactions to the sun

The sun's rays can provoke various changes on the surface of the skin. The increased sensitivity is called photosensitivity. Changes can take several forms.

• Phototraumatic reactions include sunburn. They can form in any person with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation on the skin surface. Pimples and blisters from the sun appear on exposed areas of the body.
• Phototoxic reactions are triggered by the use of certain foods, plants, taking medications that are photosensitizers. In this case, extensive solar urticaria appears on the surface of the skin.
• If the skin does not accept the sun's rays, a photoallergic reaction develops. It is associated with immune disorders, as a result of which the body reacts negatively to the sun. Papules, vesicles, oozing are formed on the surface of the skin. Also, lichenification of the skin can be pronounced, in which tissues thicken, roughness, pigmentation appear.

Symptoms of solar urticaria

The symptoms of solar urticaria can be varied. They appear depending on the cause of the rash, the person's age, and other factors. In most cases, allergies appear as standard symptoms.

• The skin becomes red, rash, inflamed and itchy.
• Acne from the sun appears on the surface of the skin. They are localized mainly on the open parts of the body: on the hands, face. But when you are on the beach, roughness, irregularities, swollen lesions appear all over the body, back. The areas can be very itchy and sore.
• With severe damage, the skin becomes covered with crusts and scales. Blood may leak from the injured area.

An allergic reaction often manifests itself as hives from the sun. But eczema, blistering is also noted.

Sun exposure can cause redness and rashes

If ultraviolet irradiation has occurred to a strong degree, then the rashes are localized even in those places that have not been exposed to rays.

The most common signs shown in the photo may have varying degrees... Changes vary from the amount of ultraviolet radiation received, the duration of exposure to the sun and the individual characteristics of the body.

Causes of the rash

Healthy people, the immune system which are not weakened, are less likely to be allergic to sunlight. Especially often violations are manifested in:

• people with light skin and hair tones;
• newborns and infants;
• pregnant women;
• solarium lovers;
• women after tattooing, chemical peeling;
• old people.

An allergic reaction is accompanied by itching

Solar urticaria can be triggered by internal disturbances in the body. Therefore, people suffering from hepatic and intestinal pathologies, a decrease in the body's immune defense are susceptible to it. Also, an allergy appears with vitamin deficiency, hidden chronic diseases, metabolic disorders.

Photosensitizers

Changes in the skin are associated with the presence of photosensitizers in the body. These agents cause skin damage when exposed to the sun.

Substances are found in various food products, medications, medicinal plants... When consumed, a reaction occurs in the body, after which the appearance of acne from the sun is observed.

Many drugs have photosensitizing properties.

Many manufacturers medicines indicate in the instructions that the drug causes photosensitization. Therefore, when exposed to ultraviolet light, a person taking the pills may develop hives from the sun.

Among these drugs are:

• contraceptives with hormones in the composition (COC);
• antibiotics (fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines, macrolides);
• antifungal agents;
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• antihistamines (diphenhydramine, promethazine);
• cardiological medicines (fibrates, amiodarone, digitoxin, atorvastatin);
• sedatives and antidepressants;
• thiazide diuretics;
• drugs for the treatment of diabetes mellitus;
• essential oils;
• corticosteroids.

In addition, a similar effect is observed when using boric and salicylic acid, methylene blue, tar-containing ointments.

Meadow grasses provoke skin rashes from the sun

The appearance of spots on the skin can be observed when furocoumarins, which are produced by meadow grasses, get on the integument. To prevent a person from starting to pour out, it is worth protecting yourself from contact with:

• nettles;
• buckwheat;
• swan;
• hogweed;
• fig tree.

In addition, you should not be in the sun if a person takes inside decoctions and infusions of St. John's wort, angelica, clover, sweet clover, agape.

Certain food products also have a provocative effect. Among them are:

• juices of carrots, citrus fruits;
• Bell pepper;
• sorrel;
• parsley;
• celery;
• spicy foods;
• alcohol;
• products with dyes, preservatives and sweeteners in the composition.

People suffering from allergic reactions to coffee, chocolate, nuts must be especially careful.

Allergy treatment

If a person has a burned back during prolonged exposure to the sun, then special treatment is not required. After all, this reaction can be observed in anyone who overdoses with a tan. In this case, you will need to apply sunburn products to the skin.

Before figuring out what to do with blisters after sunburn, you need to determine the true cause of your skin reaction. When using photosensitizers, it is worth abandoning these substances. If this is not possible, you need protection from the sun's rays in the form of creams, capes, hats.

If sun breakouts develop, see your doctor. He will assess the symptoms of the lesion and select necessary treatment solar urticaria. It can be carried out with the help of various groups of medications.

Local funds

With mild skin lesions, especially on the face, unpleasant symptoms can be removed from the sun with the help of non-hormonal ointments and creams. They soothe the skin, cool their surface, and eliminate itching and rashes. Among the funds in this direction, there are:

• Fenistil-gel;
• La cree;
• Panthenol;
• Radevit;
• Dexpanthenol.

You can treat sunburns with the help of special preparations Psilo-balsam, Solcoseryl, Karatolin.

After a burn, soothing agents can be applied to the skin.

If a severe allergic reaction develops, the use of corticosteroids will be required. Funds have strong action, therefore, are prescribed only by a doctor for a short time. These include:

• Ftorocort;
• Betamethasone;
• Hydrocortisone;
• Advantan.

In case of an overdose of these drugs, the skin condition may worsen. Due to addiction, the integument can atrophy.

Antihistamines

If an allergic reaction occurs, an allergist and dermatologist may prescribe antihistamines:

• Claritina;
• Suprastin;
• Cetrina;
• Zodak.

They block the production of histamine in the body, which prevents the allergic reaction from developing further.

Antihistamines relieve itching and rashes

Taking vitamins

Allergies and rashes can be the result of vitamin deficiency in the body. Therefore, complex treatment should include the mandatory intake of vitamins C, E, nicotinic acid and group B.

Enterosorbents

To accelerate the removal of the irritant from the body, enterosorbents are prescribed. Among them, the most effective are:

• Polysorb;
• Polyphepan;
• Filtrum;
• Enterosgel.

They need to be washed down with enough water to quickly wash out hazardous substances.

Folk remedies

You can get rid of rashes with folk remedies... They are used only if the person is not allergic to herbs and medicinal plants.

• Inside, you can take a decoction of nettle. You need to brew a tablespoon of plant flowers with 200 ml of boiling water. After a 30-minute infusion, take a decoction of 1/2 cup up to five times a day.
• Nettle decoction lotions (30 g of leaves per 0.5 l of water) are useful. The composition is brought to a boil, and then infused for an hour. A cotton pad is moistened in the broth, which is applied to the surface of the skin. You can use the product for both body and face.
• You can replace regular tea with a decoction from a series.

Folk remedies help to cope with rashes

Prophylaxis

To eliminate the likelihood of rashes after exposure to the sun, you must follow simple rules of prevention.

To eliminate the likelihood of a rash, you need to lubricate your skin with sunscreen.

• Sunbathing is allowed no longer than 20 minutes. The optimal time for sunbathing is before 10 am and after 5 pm.
• It is forbidden to use decorative cosmetics and perfume before going outside.
• Sunscreens must have high degree protection. They need to be applied 20 minutes before going out.
• After bathing, you do not need to completely wipe off the water in the skin surface.

If it was not possible to protect yourself, you must urgently consult a doctor. Otherwise, the allergy can only get worse.