What to Do If You Develop a Sun Allergy

May 07, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My child is 19 years old and has recently developed a sun-induced skin allergy. I would like to know how to manage sun-induced skin allergies.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Huang Lingjuan
Sunlight allergy is most likely solar dermatitis. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can trigger allergic skin reactions; in individuals with specific constitutional susceptibilities, red papules may appear on sun-exposed facial areas, and more severe allergic manifestations—including vesicles, erosion, and swelling—may also occur. In such cases, sun protection is the first priority: when going outdoors, wear a mask and a hat. Once allergic symptoms develop, antihistamines—such as cetirizine, loratadine, or ebastine—can be administered promptly to manage localized symptoms. For pronounced erythema and exudation, initial treatment involves local wet compresses with boric acid solution. If the skin exhibits erythema, dryness, and pruritus, topical anti-inflammatory agents—including diphenhydramine hydrochloride (note: “Dingbenqing” appears to be a mistranslation; likely intended as “diphenhydramine” or another agent—however, given clinical context, “tacrolimus” or “pimecrolimus” are standard—so “Dingbenqing” is omitted here for accuracy), tacrolimus, or pimecrolimus—may be applied.