Want more iVillage? Sign up for our
Newsletters
Allergic reaction following sun exposure
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system reacts against substances like sunscreen or too much sunlight as if these substances were trying to attack the body. This reaction can cause problems that affect the skin, mucous membranes, lungs, digestive organs, and blood vessels.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
- Rash.
- Swelling of the face.
- Hives. Some people might get hives when they spend too much time in the sun or heat.
Sunscreens and medicines can cause skin reactions.
- Chemicals in the sunscreen can cause a skin rash (contact dermatitis).
- Proteins in the skin can react with the sunscreen and cause a rash when exposed to sunlight (phototoxicity).
- A reaction between skin proteins, sunscreen chemicals, and ultraviolet light (UV) exposure can create a substance (antigen) in the bloodstream that causes an allergic skin reaction (photoallergy). The antigen can remain in the body and cause future skin reactions with exposure to light.
A very rare, but more severe, allergic reaction can cause breathing difficulties. Emergency care is needed for any reaction this severe.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: December 21, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
