Skin sun allergy treatment: what to know

Polymorphic light eruption is an itchy or burning rash that appears after ultraviolet exposure, often on areas newly exposed to sunlight. It may show as small bumps, patches, or blisters, and can recur during bright-weather periods. Other light-sensitive rashes and medication reactions can look similar, so appearance alone cannot confirm the cause. A clinician may ask about timing, products, medicines, and whether the rash is limited to exposed skin.

Cover the affected skin, seek shade, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen that your skin tolerates. Cool compresses and gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser can reduce irritation; avoid scratching and new exfoliating products while the skin settles. A clinician may recommend a short course of topical corticosteroids for inflammation. For recurring symptoms, carefully supervised narrowband UVB phototherapy may help the skin adapt before the sunny season. Follow the prescribed schedule and report worsening irritation.

Arrange a dermatology assessment if the rash keeps returning, spreads beyond sun-exposed areas, or does not settle after avoiding sunlight. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, trouble breathing, faintness, extensive blistering, fever, eye involvement, or painful skin that is rapidly worsening. A new rash after starting a medicine also deserves prompt review; do not stop an essential medicine without advice.

Ask which pattern of light sensitivity fits your symptoms, whether any medicine or skincare product could be contributing, and how long to use prescribed treatment. You can also ask how to protect your skin in the UAE climate and whether supervised phototherapy is appropriate for recurrent episodes.