Photodermatitis is a condition that causes a rash on the skin.
This article will discuss all the aspects of photodermatitis, including symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
Photodermatitis is a rash resulting from sunlight.
urbazon / Getty Images
People withphotosensitivitycan present with many different symptoms or conditions when they are exposed to sunlight.
One of these conditions is photodermatitis.
What Causes Photodermatitis?
The combination of the sun and the trigger causes the photodermatitis rash.
It also needs another trigger along with sunlight to cause the rash.
A sunburn will happen withprolonged sunlight exposureand does not need additional triggers.
Symptoms: How Does Photodermatitis Affect Skin?
Photodermatitis only appears on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun.
The healthcare provider may ask about previous sun exposure, current medications, and family history.
If the healthcare provider suspects photodermatitis, they may perform photo tests.
This is where a small area of the skin is intentionally exposed toUV radiation.
Some of these treatments can be done at home, whereas others need a healthcare provider.
At Home
In some cases, photodermatitis can be managed at home.
The rash is similar to eczema and may be treated using a fragrance-free moisturizer and over-the-countertopical steroids.
Other at-home treatments include stopping anyphotosensitizing medicationsand avoiding contact with known allergens.
Under Provider Supervision
A healthcare provider can offer treatments to lessen photodermatitis and reduce its incidence.
A healthcare provider may use phototherapy, a controlled light exposure, to desensitize the skin.
Consider wearing clothing that offers UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) protection.
Several conditions look similar, however, treatment will be different.
Knowing the diagnosis and underlying cause will guide healthcare providers to specific treatments.
When someone has photodermatitis due to an underlying conditionor when it is severethey should see their healthcare provider regularly.
Photodermatitis can cause complications likehyperpigmentation(darker patches of skin), premature aging, andskin cancer.
People who have photodermatitis need to avoid sunlight, wear clothes that cover their skin, and use sunscreen.
A healthcare provider can prescribe medications to help alleviate the symptoms and help minimize future rashes.
Harvard Health.Sun allergy (photosensitivity).
