Exposure to sunlight can cause a skin rash. This rash is itchy and comes up as red spots, blisters and small bumps. This skin rash is also known as a sun allergy. Suffering from a sun allergy means your skin is sensitive to the UV rays in sunlight. This is especially the case for people with a light skin type. This is not something you need to worry about, as sun allergies will go away on their own. You will usually notice visible improvements after a week.
If you have a sun allergy, you will:
- Suffer from an itchy and red skin rash.
- Suffer from blisters on your skin.
- Suffer from bumps on your skin.
Another form of sun allergy is juvenile spring eruption. This is where children suffer from bumps and blisters on the ears during the spring season.
It’s especially important for you to avoid developing a sun allergy. You can do this by:
- Not exposing your skin to the sun for too long.
- Not sunbathing when the sun is at its strongest.
- Wearing a cap, hat and/or covering clothes.
- Applying sunscreen with a factor of 30 or higher.
Apart from this, there’s little you can do about sun allergies yourself. If you do suffer from this allergy, it’s particularly important for you to give your skin a rest and protect it from the sun. You can buy cream which reduces the itching. Obtain advice regarding the right medication from the chemist or pharmacy staff.
You should contact your GP if:
- You have severe itching. Your GP can then prescribe remedies or medication.
- The rash and spots have not reduced after a week.
- Your symptoms are getting worse.
- You’re in pain, develop a fever or feel very unwell.
- The prescribed medication doesn’t work.
Your GP will investigate the cause of these symptoms with you. Your GP can refer you to a dermatologist in case of serious complaints. He or she will talk to you about whether light therapy may be an option for you.