Allergic To Sun?

[Scarlett]

I have barely been outside in years, but on the rare occasion, I do end up, catching the Sun, even for two minutes, I go red, and the area becomes incredibly itchy. It’s like I have an allergic reaction to the Sun. Is this a thing and what can I do about it?!

[barry1010]

Does the rash look like this? https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polymorphic-light-eruption/

As it is itchy it is more likely to be prickly heat and antihistamines help https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heat-rash-prickly-heat/

[roopower]

Have you tried a really good sun block?

[Vagus]

Have you had a look at whatever medication you’re on to see if it makes you more sensitive to sun?

[Sqad]

Good point by [email protected]......;-)

[Tilly2]

I have polymorphic light eruption, have had it since my early twenties.
I just keep covered in the sunshine, linen trousers and long sleeved tops.

Piz Buin do a Sun Allergy cream which might help you but you do need to keep your exposure to the sun to a minimum

[Scarlett]

Thank you, All. That’s a very good point about medication. The only thing I’ve been taking recently is naproxen, and sometimes Co-Codamol. Also certain supplements. I’ll check this out. It’s as if I’ve suddenly developed an intolerance to sunlight since the start of Covid when I never went out. I’ve hardly been out since, maybe this is why!

[Peter Pedant]

no I think you are pale and interesting and burn alot

I use factor 50 - and yes if I dont, I can feel myself burning within 15 mins. I do not sunbathe

I have a rodent ulcer on my bazzooom! following vay bad sunburn on Burton bradstock beach in 1965. Three days in bed. no blistering. You know those funny open weave blankets? - the weave came out on my skin ( dermographism).

[Scarlett]

Peter, I used to tan really easily – Indian great grandfather! Half an hour of redness, followed by tan. I honestly think it must be the naproxen, which is causing the intense itching, which lasts days, and now never goes brown.

[Redhelen72]

I have always been sensitive to the sun but during my early adult years it was very bad - stepped outside or sat in the sun through a window and within minutes I was out in bumps and burns. The GP advised overside long sleeve tops and basically wearing the highest factor and clothing over the top.
I walked around with dads shirts and long trousers and large hats for about 2 years.
Even now - I wear hats and factor 30 in the winter and factor 100 in the summer

[Scarlett]

RedHelen, the weird thing is, I don’t think it is my natural complexion, as I’ve never had any problem before. It’s just in the last few years when I haven’t been outside for a long time, and now taking naproxen. Guess I will have to just keep covering up.!