Summer days spent outdoors can be enjoyable for most people, but for those with sun allergies, exposure to the sun can trigger uncomfortable skin reactions. Can you be allergic to the sun, and how is it different than just a ‘sunburn’ or ‘heat rash’? The answer is yes—a sun allergy is a real medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide and there are definite differences between sun sensitivity and allergy.
Board-certified dermatologists, cosmetic surgeons, and Mohs surgeons, Drs. Joel and Daniel Schlessinger have extensive experience diagnosing and treating various types of sun allergies, with polymorphic light eruption (PMLE) being the most common condition they encounter in their practice.
Understanding Sun Allergies and PMLE
A sun allergy occurs when your immune system reacts abnormally to UV radiation. Unlike most people, who may typically tan or burn with sun exposure, people with sun allergies may experience allergic reactions even with minimal sun exposure.
“Sun allergies are often misunderstood by patients. Many people think they just have sensitive skin, unexplained itching or hives from some other cause, but these are actual immune system responses to UV light that require proper diagnosis and treatment,” Dr. Joel Schlessinger explains.
Polymorphic light eruption (PMLE) is by far the most common type of sun allergy, affecting approximately 10-20% of the population. This condition typically develops in spring or early summer when people first increase their exposure to sunlight after the winter months. The term “polymorphic” refers to the various forms this condition can take, from minor bumps to larger blisters on sun-exposed areas.
“PMLE is particularly frustrating for patients because it often occurs when they’re trying to enjoy nice weather after a long winter. The good news is that, with proper prevention and treatment, many patients can build tolerance over time, but it is still a good idea to avoid the sun if at all possible,” Dr. Daniel Schlessinger says.
Sun allergy symptoms typically include red, itchy bumps that appear a few hours after sun exposure, small bumps or blisters on sun-exposed areas, and burning or stinging sensations. What distinguishes PMLE from regular sunburn is that these reactions occur with much less sun exposure than would cause a typical burn, and they often follow a distinct pattern, usually happening mostly in the spring and early summer as sun exposure is gradually ramped up after a winter without sun exposure.
“Sun allergy can develop at any point in your life, though it tends to appear in middle age more often, and it usually happens at the beginning of ‘sun season’ each year. This timing is actually a great diagnostic clue. Additionally, some ethnicities, such as those with Native American and Mediterranean ancestry, may be at higher risk of sun allergy,” Dr. Joel Schlessinger notes.
Sun Allergy Prevention and Treatment
The most effective approach to managing PMLE combines prevention with targeted treatment. Dr. Schlessinger and his team have found great success with a two-pronged approach: preventing reactions with a novel supplement called Heliocare Antioxidant Supplements and treating inflammation when it occurs with FixMySkin 1% Hydrocortisone Healing Balm or other, stronger, prescription topical corticosteroids.
Heliocare contains Polypodium leucotomos, a fern extract that has been used for centuries to address sun-related skin issues. “Heliocare has in several cases been life-changing for my patients with PMLE because it reduces the stress that UV radiation places on the skin and decreases the risk of getting any reaction in the sun,” Dr. Joel Schlessinger explains. “If you know you have sun allergy or PMLE, all you have to do is take two pills prior to being outside and that should help a great deal in decreasing your risk of flare-ups. For those who are allergic to the sun, I recommend taking this supplement on a year-round basis, but others with less severe symptoms often only take it in the summer months.”
When inflammation does occur, FixMySkin 1% Hydrocortisone Healing Balm is a potent anti-inflammatory balm that can be used anywhere on the body to reduce the inflammatory response and protect the skin during healing.
“My patients with PMLE love FixMySkin,” says Dr. Daniel Schlessinger. “Not only is it very effective at treating the rash, but it is also so easy to use and carry around in your pocket. It’s one of few medications that kids love using.”
Beyond these specific treatments, proper sun protection remains crucial. The best sunscreens for sun-sensitive skin are physical blockers containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these ingredients sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays rather than absorbing them like chemical sunscreens.
“I prefer physical sunscreens for patients with sun allergies because they’re gentler on sensitive skin and provide reliable protection without causing additional irritation,” Dr. Joel Schlessinger advises.
Other important prevention strategies include seeking shade during peak UV hours (10 AM to 4 PM), wearing protective clothing including long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats, and gradually increasing sun exposure to build tolerance over time.
What is the difference between sun allergy versus sun sensitivity?
“Sun allergy and sun sensitivity are often used interchangeably by laypeople, but medically they are totally different things,” explains Dr. Daniel Schlessinger. “Sun allergy (or PMLE) is essentially an allergic reaction to UV, but sun sensitivity (or photosensitivity) is the state in which your skin burns more quickly or with less UV exposure than you normally would.”
As for photosensitivity, there are numerous causes, including certain medications, autoimmune disorders like lupus, and genetic causes. Determining the underlying cause can be complex and requires a dermatologist’s evaluation.
When to Seek Professional Care for Sun Allergy
Many people attempt to self-diagnose and treat what they believe is a sun allergy, but professional evaluation is crucial for proper management. “We often see patients who have been self-treating what they think is a sun allergy when it might actually be another condition entirely. A board-certified dermatologist knows the difference,” Dr. Daniel Schlessinger explains.
You should consult a dermatologist if you experience any rash that worsens with sun exposure, particularly if the reaction occurs with minimal sun exposure or interferes with your daily activities. Early intervention (and careful avoidance of the sun) often leads to better outcomes and can prevent the cycle of recurring reactions that many PMLE patients experience.
Living Comfortably with Sun Allergy
Managing PMLE requires some lifestyle adjustments, but patients can still enjoy outdoor activities safely with the right approach. The combination of Heliocare for prevention, FixMySkin for treatment when needed, and proper sun protection measures allows most patients to maintain active outdoor lifestyles.
“Many of our patients are surprised to learn they can still spend time outdoors even if they have sun allergies but still should be careful and thoughtful about the amount of time they do spend,” Dr. Daniel Schlessinger notes. “It’s all about being smart with prevention, being strategic in your sun exposure timing and having an effective treatment plan in place.”
Ready to address your sun allergy symptoms? Schedule a consultation to discuss your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include Heliocare prevention and targeted treatment options.