An article published in The New York Times revealed that individuals who experience red and itchy skin after exposure to sunlight may have solar urticaria. Experts explained that sunburns are caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation and can result in red and itchy skin. However, for some individuals, these post–sun exposure symptoms may not be indicative of sunburn. Solar urticaria is triggered when an individual is exposed to UVA radiation—which has a longer wavelength and is capable of penetrating deeper into the skin. Solar urticaria is a rare allergy, but for those who have it, their body can develop an immediate reaction to one of the cellular components changed by sunlight. However, experts are still unsure of how or why this change occurs. They noted that the allergy can start in adolescence and last a lifetime—and is not easy to treat. Patients with solar urticaria were advised to consult their physicians about taking a higher dose of antihistamines, wear protective clothing, and consistently use sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher.
July 13, 2023