NHS Explains Sun Allergy: Key Symptoms and Treatment for PMLE
After a prolonged winter with significant rainfall across the UK, many individuals are eager to bask in the sunshine now that it has finally emerged. While moderate sun exposure offers benefits such as vitamin D synthesis and a boost to mood, it can also lead to various skin issues. From rashes and pigmentation to sunburn, skin conditions are relatively common, with research from The London Dermatology Centre indicating that 25% of people in the country experience a skin condition each year.
Diagnosing skin problems can be challenging due to triggers like hormones, allergies, skincare products, diseases, health conditions, and even weather patterns. But is it possible to have an allergy to the sun? According to the NHS, the answer is a definitive yes.
Understanding Polymorphic Light Eruption
Polymorphic light eruption (PMLE) is an allergic reaction to sunlight that results in a skin rash in susceptible individuals. The NHS website describes this condition: "Polymorphic light eruption (also called polymorphous light eruption) is a skin rash that can happen after being in the sun. It usually goes away on its own if you stay out of the sun, but it can keep coming back."
The primary symptom of polymorphic light eruption is a rash that typically appears within a few hours or days of sun exposure, with higher incidence in spring and summer. This rash often causes itchiness and a burning sensation, manifesting as small raised spots, blisters, or larger blotchy areas. It appears red or pink, though this may be less visible on brown or black skin.
The rash can occur anywhere on the body but is frequently found in areas not regularly exposed to the sun, such as the arms, legs, or chest. According to a study from the National Library of Medicine, PMLE is approximately four times more common in women, attributed to the hormone oestrogen, and often begins in young adulthood. The NHS similarly notes that individuals under 40 years old, women, and those with white skin are more likely to develop this condition.
Treatment and Prevention Strategies
General advice for managing sun allergy rashes includes avoiding sun exposure, which typically allows the rash to fade within about a week. However, the NHS recommends seeking medical intervention if the rash worsens, persists, becomes painful, shows signs of infection, or changes in appearance.
To treat PMLE rash and prevent future occurrences, the NHS suggests the following steps:
- Take antihistamines if the rash is itchy.
- Apply calamine lotion or emollients, such as moisturising creams, to keep the rash cool.
- Stay out of the sun, particularly between 11am and 3pm when UV rays are strongest.
- Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50 or higher, and wear sun-protective clothing and a hat when outdoors.
- Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, as well as after swimming.
By following these guidelines, individuals can better manage polymorphic light eruption and enjoy the sun safely, reducing the risk of recurrent skin issues.
