How to Reduce Sun Sensitivity

Sun sensitivity can affect people of all ages. While it's more common in fair-skinned individuals, sun sensitivity can occur in medium- and dark-skinned people as well. If you are very sensitive to the sun, you will find that you burn much more quickly than others and perhaps get rashes or skin bumps from sun exposure. It's imperative that you protect yourself against the sun to avoid long-term skin damage.

Instructions

1

Know that various medications can cause sun sensitivity. Drugs such as antibiotics, antidepressants, diuretics and birth control pills can all cause sun sensitivity in certain individuals. For some people, the drug's molecules mutate when touched by ultraviolet rays. The change causes damage to surrounding skin tissues, which often reveals itself as a rash. In some cases, the reaction can lead to blisters, swelling or hives.

2

Talk to your doctor about alternate medications if you feel that your sun sensitivity may be caused by a medication you are taking. Your doctor may be able to suggest an alternative medication that doesn't carry the same sun sensitivity risk. Because medications affect everyone differently, you may even find that another medication does not cause the same side effects for you.

3

Be aware that various cosmetics and perfumes can cause sun sensitivity. If you notice increased sun sensitivity, consider new products you have started using recently. If a product causes increased sensitivity, you will usually see the results of that within 24 hours of using it. If you suspect lotion, makeup or fragrance could be the causey, cease using the product.

4

Know that certain illnesses such as lupus can cause sun sensitivity. Ask your doctor about this possibility. He can run a variety of different tests to rule out illnesses that may be the cause.

5

Wear protective clothing whenever you are out in the sun. Keep your arms and legs covered with long-sleeved shirts and long pants. You should also wear a wide-rimmed hat and apply sunscreen to all exposed body areas. Your sunscreen should protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

6

Avoid the sun during its peak hours, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Be aware that light surfaces such as concrete and sand reflect sun, thereby doubling the intensity of the rays.