Sun sensitivity: what is it?

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Sun sensitivity, also sometimes described as “sun allergy”, is a skin reaction that occurs in response to exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. To some extent, all humans have some level of sensitivity to the sun, and this is what leads to things like sunburn. Medical understanding of true sensitivity usually goes a little further than this, and typically requires a more immediate or adverse reaction to light. Some people get hives or rashes unrelated to sunburn, for example, and it’s also common for a person to feel nauseous and dizzy after sun exposure. Sometimes the cause is genetic and people can be born with it. Most commonly, however, it’s caused by a chemical solution that a person puts on their skin, such as a lotion or perfume, or some type of medication, oral or topical. It could also be a side effect of some medical conditions, especially skin conditions such as rosacea or psoriasis. Medical professionals can sometimes help people overcome their sensitivities with medications or lifestyle options, but often sufferers simply need to stay indoors or wear long clothes and seek shade when outside.

Natural sensitivity

People of all races, ethnicities and ages can be susceptible to sun sensitivity, but when the condition occurs naturally it is more common among people with very fair skin. Additionally, people who have sensitivities to things like fragrances and perfumes are often more at risk, as are those with very dry skin. One of the most common causes of sun sensitivity in these people is initial exposure to high UV light after a period of low UV exposure. Developing sunburn is the most immediate result of sun sensitivity, but skin rashes longer lasting and hives can also occur.

Chemical solutions

Sometimes the cause is something a person is getting on their skin. While the ingredients in most commercial lotions, colognes, and perfumes are safe for liberal use, a lot depends on your individual skin chemistry. A product that may not cause problems in one person may cause sensitivity to light in another. Antibiotic ointment or cream is a major cause in most places. People can and often do experience sun sensitivity without experiencing any other side effects or reactions. The reactions are also generally limited to areas of the skin that have been exposed to the chemical ingredients.

Role of the drug

Another very common cause is medication. Medicated skin ointments and creams can produce sensitivity, but it is also often related to orally ingested medications. Ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, both painkillers with anti-inflammatory properties, are known to have various side effects, including increased sensitivity to the sun. Oral contraceptives and some contraceptive devices can also cause sensitivity. Many of the more aggressive drugs used to fight cancer also have this side effect.

Some foods

Some foods and natural products can trigger this type of reaction. The most common foods known to do this are parsnips, parsley, limes and celery. Lemon, lime, rosemary and cedar essential oils are natural products that should be used with care. People usually have to ingest large amounts of these foods to experience symptoms, and as intake decreases, sensitivity decreases in most cases as well. However, people who are already prone to the condition may make it worse if these foods are a regular part of their diet.

Health related causes

There are also a number of health conditions that are known to cause this problem. These conditions include psoriasis, dermatitis, lupus and rosacea. Sensitivity in these cases might feel like a normal flare-up of the condition, but more often than not, the symptoms are exacerbated if not caused completely by the sun.
Treatment options
People who think they may be suffering from sun sensitivity usually need to visit a doctor or skin care specialist for help and an accurate diagnosis. Healthcare professionals can administer a photo-patch test to help pinpoint the cause of the sensitivity. It may take some time to figure out exactly what the culprit is and will likely require an elimination process, where one factor is eliminated at a time.

Prevention is also an important part of the solution in most cases. All people, whether or not they have sensitivity, should typically wear sunscreen and light-colored clothing when exposed to the sun. Those with documented sensitivity who nevertheless need to be in the sun for extended periods of time might consider treating their laundry with some type of UV sunscreen to block even more rays and help prevent the problem from occurring or recurring.

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