Taking care with sun exposure helps to fight premature aging, as well as preventing diseases and a series of effects, such as allergy to the sun. To learn more about this type of allergy, we talked to Geisa Costa (CRM 120.670), a specialist in dermatology and creator of the Art Beauty Center (SP) and the Geisa Costa clinic (Uberaba/MG). Check out!
What is sun allergy
Sun allergy, also called solar dermatitis, is a type of irritation that can be influenced by factors that go beyond sun exposure.
“The person develops an irritation after intense or moderate exposure. Research shows that UV light modifies a substance in the skin and the body reacts causing the skin to become inflamed, that is, red, irritated, itchy and even blistered. Solar dermatitis can also be caused by other factors, such as the use of tetracycline antibiotics, which lead to these spots on the skin, and the use of perfumes and lemon followed by contact with the sun”, he explains.
Symptoms of sun allergy
How do you know if you are allergic to the sun? The dermatologist listed the most frequent symptoms for you to keep an eye on. Follow up!
- Itchy red patches that usually appear about 12 hours after sun exposure on areas such as the neckline, shoulders, legs, arms, and instep.
- Blisters that become dry and rough;
- Spots in the form of shooting targets, which is a circle inside another.
If you have identified one of these symptoms, it is very likely that you have developed the allergy, and specific care is needed when treating. See below for some options!
How to treat sun allergy
According to Geisa, prevention is the main remedy. However, if the skin is blemished or irritated, you should see a dermatologist. The professional pointed out that, after the diagnosis, which will vary with the symptoms presented, it is possible to indicate the following treatments:
- Moisturizers or acids for topical use: according to Geisa, moisturizers must be suitable for each skin type. As for acids, the indication is to apply only on the stain. The components generally suggested, always after consultation and evaluation, are vitamin C, retinoic and glycolic.
- Laser treatment in clinic: “there are several laser treatments, such as fractional CO2 and Fotona, but you need to assess the condition of the stain, how long it has been on the skin, skin tone, otherwise the laser can make the stain worse”, he explains.
- Continuous use of sunscreen specific to the skin type: most of the time, allergy to the sun is verified in sensitive skins, being essential to look for specific and neutral products, without some chemical components. Therefore, the dermatologist emphasizes the importance of observing the product label before buying.
- Allergy test: “this is a common test, which the dermatologist can ask for or can refer to the allergist. Various actives are tested through contact points on the skin to see what the person is allergic to. With the result in hand, the dermatologist gives guidelines and suggests treatments”, he points out.
As the dermatologist commented, sun allergy prevention is super important. Thinking about it, check out the best tips to protect yourself and prevent!
How to protect yourself and prevent
The main recommendations revolve around avoiding sun exposure during a certain time and taking protective measures. Write down the dermatologist’s tips here:
- Avoid sun exposure between 11 am and 4 pm;
- Wear hat;
- Wear sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection lenses;
- If possible, wear a long-sleeved T-shirt with SPF;
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen;
- Invest in products designed for sensitive and allergy-prone skin;
- Read the formula of the products and, especially, the protectors. It is necessary to apply at the right time, usually every two hours or after bathing in the sea or swimming pool, to take effect.
Remembering that, if you suffer from solar dermatitis, always consult a dermatologist. How about learning how to choose sunscreen too? He is a strong ally in the prevention and treatment of various skin diseases!
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.
Are You Ready to Discover Your Twin Flame?
Answer just a few simple questions and Psychic Jane will draw a picture of your twin flame in breathtaking detail: