Sun Poisoning Rash

What is Sun Poisoning?

In order to understand and begin treating a sun poisoning rash, it is important to understand the root of the problem. Sun poisoning is usually a non-medical term that describes a variety of allergic reactions to the sun. Those with fair skin are especially susceptible to these allergies since they have a shortage of skin pigmentation to protect them. However it can happen to anyone who has enough exposure to sunlight. This condition and its accompanying rash is more often than not caused by sun exposure in combination with chemicals, cosmetics, plants, or drugs used on the skin or internally.

Sun poisoning can be categorized with sunburn, and many people use the term interchangeably.

What Causes a Sun Poisoning Rash?

Besides the common sunburn, a sun poisoning rash can be caused by common drugs that have been ingested. Even the most harmless of medications can cause an otherwise skin healthy person to suffer a serious rash after only a bit of light exposure. Some medicines known to cause this issue include birth control pills, tranquilizers, blood pressure medications, tetracycline, and those used to control medical ailments such as diabetes.

You can also develop a rash if you have contact with particular chemicals. Unfortunately many people don’t know these chemically based products are even capable of causing problems until it is too late. The simplest of items such as bar soaps, shampoo, cortisone creams, and even suntan lotions can cause an adverse reaction such as sun poisoning. Even natural products that use a fair amount of vegetables and fruits in lieu of chemically engineered ingredients can cause a problem. It has been shown that a large amount of the farming population has experienced a sun poisoning rash at one time or another.

What Happens?

When your skin has a negative reaction from any of the above-mentioned combination of factors, you will begin to experience itchy skin and a rash within a few days. Some people have reactions so severe that even a small amount of light can cause a damaging reaction.

Those who have a history of sensitive skin should be especially cautious, although many different types of skin are at risk for such an issue.

Curing the Issue

Many doctors treat sun poisoning in the same manner they treat other skin allergies such as poison ivy or chicken pox. If you are fortunate enough to only have a mild reaction, using cold, wet compresses on the affected area can often be beneficial. Taking warm baths and even adding oatmeal to the water can also be helpful. After bathing, be sure to apply some calamine lotion to your patches of irritated skin. If you are suffering through a more severe reaction, take an antihistamine, which will reduce swelling and calm the urge to itch a bit. If you are experiencing oozing blisters, then be sure to visit a doctor as soon as possible, as other complications such as infection or dehydration may be a risk.

Prevention

The only way to really prevent a sun-related rash is unfortunately to live through it and try your best to determine what caused it. Don’t spend an excessive amount of time in the sun and always avoid skin-damaging activities such as tanning beds or extended sun bathing. If your sun poisoning is being caused by an oral medication, unfortunately you may be required to stay out of the sun altogether. Invest in some lightweight long sleeved shirts and trendy hats for the times you absolutely must be in direct sunlight.

Usinglip balms and other cosmetics proven to not give you a reaction can also work as a great protectant for those with fair skin who need some extra shielding from the sun’s radiation. And as much of a fashion faux pas as it may be, zinc oxide paste is an excellent choice for those who need the ultimate in protection.

Remember cloudy days can cause as much of an issue as hot summer ones, and you must be aware and on guard year round if this sort of irritation is an issue for you. Unfortunately many people suffer a relapse due to the fact they forget damage can occur in the winter as well. So be sun smart year round – you just might save your skin in the process.