Skin Rash from Sun

Getting a skin rash due to the sun is one of the most common skin problems that people suffer from. A skin rash may not necessarily be the result of only exposure to sun. It could have other reasons as well. Read ahead to get to know how it can be caused and what to do to prevent and treat it.

How a Skin Rash May Occur
The sun emits a number of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which harm our skin. Especially UVA and UVB rays which cause a lot of damage within a very short period of time. These rays are the ones that attack the vitamin A in the skin, and can cause serious skin disorders and sometimes even skin cancer. But at a milder and more common level, a person may develop a skin rash. Though it is much milder compared to other skin disorders, a severe one can cause a lot of discomfort.

As mentioned earlier, exposure to UV rays is not always the only reason for a skin rash. Sometimes, it may also occur due to chemical reactions that take place within the body. For example, a medication for another ailment that you have, may spark off allergies when you get exposed to sunlight. Or, you may experience a rash after using some cosmetics like suntan lotions. Another cause could be photosensitivity. Some people are more prone to allergic reactions when exposed to the sun's UV rays. They are said to photosensitive. In addition to the sun, they could also be reactive to things like fragrances, chemicals, etc.

Symptoms of a Skin Rash caused by the Sun
Given below is a list of symptoms that you may experience in case of a sun poisoning rash. These symptoms may manifest themselves within a few minutes or even a few hours after being exposed to sunlight.

• You may experience a red itchy rash due to sun exposure.
• In addition to itching, you may also experience burning in the affected area.
• Reddening of skin is also another symptom of this type of sunburn.
• Some people may also break out into painful hives.
• Boils and blisters in the affected area are another symptom.
• Red skin bumps appearing on your face and body after being in the sunlight.
• If you experience nausea, dizziness, chills or get a fever along with the above-mentioned symptoms, then you must visit a doctor at once.

Treating the Rash
Skin rashes can cause quite a lot of discomfort, physical and psychological. Not to mention the possible disruption of the daily life for about 3-4 days. But not to worry, because, treatment options for a skin rash due to the sun are easy. Some of them are given below.

• Generally, over the counter antihistamines are prescribed for people who suffer from skin rashes.
• Oral steroids are also another treatment.
• If you're skeptical about orally ingesting drugs, you can apply a steroid cream instead.
• Using cold compresses is also a good remedy for this skin rash.
• Another treatment for a skin rash is to have a warm bath, with cornstarch or oatmeal mixed in the water.
• Use calamine lotion for soothing the angry blisters.
• Aloe vera is another great remedy to soothe the rash. Use an aloe vera based gel or squeeze the juice out directly for fresh aloe vera.

How to Prevent Such a Rash
Here are some precautions that you can take.

• One of the best ways to prevent the occurrence of a rash is to avoid going out in the sun too much.
• People who are fair skinned are more susceptible to experiencing rashes, due to the low melanin count. For such people and for those with extra sensitive skin, it would be advisable to avoid unnecessary exposure to sunlight.
• Activities like sun bathing and the like should be avoided as much as possible.
• In addition, use only those cosmetics that are sure to suit your skin.
• Before taking medication like birth control pills, etc., ensure that you're not allergic to any ingredients.
• If you do experience a reaction, stop consuming it at once.

These are some steps that you can take to prevent a skin rash from the sun. Remember, skin rashes can occur in any season, not just in summer. So follow these simple and effective skin care steps. They may seem a little inconvenient at times, but that's a small price to pay for a rash free skin.