Photodermatosis treatment

Photodermatosis, or photodermatitis, is a skin condition caused by increased sensitivity to sunlight. It is characterized by skin rashes, burning sensations, and persistent itching. People with fair, delicate skin, young women, children, and the elderly are more susceptible to photodermatosis. It is a relatively rare condition, usually occurring in individuals with weakened immune defenses. Sunlight itself does not cause an allergic reaction — it merely signals the presence of a deeper internal issue in the body.

Various chemicals, as well as the products of their metabolism in the human body, accumulate in the skin and are the primary cause of photoallergic and phototoxic reactions in skin areas exposed to direct sunlight.

The causes of photodermatosis may include:

• Use of perfumes and cosmetic products containing musk, bergamot oil, and sandalwood oil;

• Contact of the skin with the sap of certain plants (such as wild angelica, some types of hogweed, etc.);

• Application of disinfecting substances;

• Intake of certain medications — specific types of antibiotics, tetracyclines, neuroleptics, immunosuppressants, some drugs used to treat diabetes, etc.

Photodermatosis manifests with the following symptoms:

• Redness of the skin;

• Blisters;

• Urticaria (hives);

• Rashes;

• Peeling;

• Itching.

Photodermatosis usually appears on exposed areas of the skin: the face, ears, neck, décolleté area, hands, and shoulders. The first symptoms typically develop a few hours after direct exposure to sunlight. In the case of delayed-type photodermatosis, the reaction occurs approximately 18–72 hours later. In individuals with particularly heightened sensitivity, bronchospasm may develop, and lowered blood pressure or even loss of consciousness can be observed.

It is important to remember that each person has their own individual threshold of sensitivity to ultraviolet exposure. Note: if you want to achieve a beautiful tan, be sure to use reliable sun protection before going to the beach. Also, choose the right time for tanning — from 7 to 11 a.m. and after 5 p.m.

When treating patients with photodermatosis, the first step is to eliminate or reduce the effect of photosensitizers. Topical treatment is selected based on the severity of the inflammatory reaction and may include a range of products — from compresses to anti-inflammatory ointments, including corticosteroids. The primary goal of therapy for all types of photodermatosis is to reduce photosensitization, which is why first-line treatment includes drugs with a photodesensitizing effect (such as beta-carotene, para-aminobenzoic acid, etc.).

Comprehensive therapy for this condition includes the intake of vitamins A and E, which are natural antioxidants. Antioxidants may also be used in various cosmetic products, such as extracts of green tea, grape seeds, chamomile, maritime pine bark, cornflower blue, and others.