Don't Go Into the Light: How to Deal with Skin Care and Photosensitivity

Being photosensitive can make or break your skin care routine this summer. Be prepared and know how to treat your skin the right way when the temperature starts to rise.

With the summer rays starting to peek through, the change in weather is prompting everyone young and old to go out and enjoy the beach, shopping and being outdoors. However, not everyone can be so carefree. You may laugh when you hear about people being allergic to the sun, but this strange phenomenon has a name: photosensitivity. And, no, that doesn’t mean they don't like to take pictures!

The Condition

Being photosensitive means that any exposure--especially excessive exposure--to sunlight can cause rashes on the skin, with the severity of the rashes varying from person to person. These rashes can appear as pink or red rashes, blotchy blisters, raised spots on the skin or scaly patches. Sometimes these rashes can be very uncomfortable, itchy or burn.

Skin care professionals aren't quite sure why some people are more photosensitive than others, but there are ways to treat this condition if you or someone you know has it.

Not So Common Causes

Even for individuals who don't necessarily suffer from photosensitivity, there are instances where your skin may become very sensitive to the light. Certain herbs and oils used in aromatherapy have been shown to cause the skin to become sensitive to light. If you're a fan of getting massages at the day spa, be sure to ask what oils your massage therapist is using. The following oils have been clinically identified as the kind that can cause photosensitivity: cumin, ginger, angelica root, bergamot, grapefruit, mandarin, orange, lemon and lime.

Other Causes

Many times prescription medications and herbs can cause your skin to become more sensitive to light. This is normally indicated on the label so be sure to follow the doctor's directions. Photosensitivity has been known to occur in individuals taking anti-inflammatory medications, sulfa drugs and herbs such as St. John's wort.

What To Do?

If you are experiencing photosensitivity due to meds, herbs or as a health condition in general, be sure to use sunscreen or sunblock on a daily basis anytime you plan on being out in the sun, wear protective clothing and hats, include vitamins such as beta-carotene and vitamin E in your diet, and avoid excessive sun exposure.

SkinCeuticals Daily Sun Defense SPF 20 is a state-of-the-art, broad spectrum sunblock that is perfect for daily use and is ideal for all skin types.

Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer All Day Moisture Defense SPF 30 provides protection from UVA/UVB rays all day long while hydrating and soothing your skin.

Kinerase Multi-Vitamins Minerals and Nutrients contains the perfect blend of high quality ingredients that are easily absorbed by the body and help target the areas of anti-aging, anti-inflammation, detoxification and skin health.

By taking these extra steps and being more mindful of what you're putting on your skin, you can prevent skin damage and keep yourself properly protected under the sun.

Source: skincare-news.com