Sun Allergies: All you need to know about polymorphic light eruption
If you end up with angry red rashes on your skin after a tanning session, you could be allergic to the sun. Read on to know more about this rare skin condition.
Some people are allergic to flowers. Others are sensitive to the sun. If you happen to fall into the category of people susceptible to the latter, you know very well what happens when you spend a little too much time soaking up UV rays.
WHAT IS IT?
For the uninitiated, sun allergies or polymorphic light eruption (PLE) is a common skin disorder characterized by photosensitivity and is the second most common sun-related skin problem treated by dermatologists after sunburn. It occurs when areas of the skin which are not regularly exposed to sunlight, such as cleavage, upper arms, and bottom get a sudden abundance of UV rays.
SYMPTOMS
Those who suffer from PLE have an abnormal reaction to sunlight which manifests as itching, hives burning or the development of visible rashes on the body. The blisters and lesions may appear scaly on the skin and cause further itching and discomfort.
WHO SUFFERS FROM IT?
Interestingly enough PLE is more common in females than males, with fair-skinned people being more susceptible to the condition. While children have been known to suffer from PLE, those who catch the disease are usually in the 20-40 age bracket.
TREATMENTS
Although PLE is severely debilitating, it is not a condition without its cures. While slathering on the sunscreen and covering up is a great way to protect skin, sufferers of PLE can still get their vitamin D if they’re religious about applying topical treatments like tea tree oil to eliminate redness and reduce inflammation. Those with milder symptoms will find that cool compresses applied to the affected areas will work wonders in minimizing itchiness and bumpy spots. Additionally, nonprescriptive oral antihistamine such as diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine are at hand to treat those with severe symptoms of PLE.
Karen George
