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Sun allergy

Sun allergy is an umbrella term for skin reactions to light. Most often it is polymorphic light eruption, with itchy bumps or patches hours to days after sun exposure. A first severe reaction, blisters, mucosal sores, fever or symptoms after a new medicine need assessment so lupus, medicine reactions and other causes are not missed.

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Sun allergy is an umbrella term for skin reactions to light. Most often it is polymorphic light eruption, with itchy bumps or patches hours to days after sun exposure. A first severe reaction, blisters, mucosal sores, fever or symptoms after a new medicine need assessment so lupus, medicine reactions and other causes are not missed.

  • Itchy red, pink or skin-coloured bumps, patches or small blisters on recently exposed skin.
  • Polymorphic light eruption starts hours to days after sun exposure, often after the first intense exposure of a season or trip.
  • Leave the sun at the first sign and cover your skin with cool, tightly woven clothing.
  • Apply plenty of broad-spectrum sunscreen with high UVA protection and at least factor thirty; reapply according to product instructions.
  • Make an appointment for a first, unclear, severe or frequently recurring light reaction, or if avoiding sun limits daily life.
  • For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.

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