Overview

Photodermatitis, also known as sun allergy or photosensitivity, is an abnormal skin reaction to sunlight or artificial ultraviolet (UV) light. This condition causes inflammation of the skin, leading to symptoms such as redness, rash, itching, and blistering. It can result from internal factors (such as autoimmune diseases or medications) or external triggers (like contact with certain plants or chemicals). Photodermatitis can be acute or chronic and may vary in severity depending on the individual’s sensitivity and the amount of sun exposure.

What is Photodermatitis?

Photodermatitis is a type of eczema or dermatitis triggered by UV radiation. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, an abnormal immune reaction occurs, often in response to a photosensitizing substance in or on the body. There are different forms of photodermatitis, including:

• Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE)
• Actinic prurigo
• Photoallergic reactions
• Phototoxic reactions
• Chronic actinic dermatitis

Some cases are idiopathic, while others result from known triggers like medications, cosmetics, or underlying health conditions.

Symptoms

Symptoms typically develop shortly after sun exposure and may include:

• Redness or swelling of the affected area
• Itchy or painful rash
• Dry, scaly, or thickened skin
• Blistering or peeling in severe cases
• Hyperpigmentation or dark spots after healing
• In chronic cases, thickened leathery skin in sun-exposed areas

Symptoms usually appear on the face, neck, arms, and hands — areas most exposed to sunlight.

Causes

Photodermatitis can be triggered by a variety of internal and external factors:

• Medications: Antibiotics (like tetracycline), NSAIDs, diuretics, and chemotherapy drugs
• Plants: Contact with citrus (lime, lemon), celery, or parsnip followed by sun exposure (phytophotodermatitis)
• Cosmetics and perfumes: Containing bergamot or musk
• Underlying diseases: Lupus, porphyria, or HIV
• Genetic predisposition: Inherited photosensitivity syndromes
• UV radiation: From sunlight or tanning beds

Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk of developing photodermatitis if you:

• Have fair or sensitive skin
• Use photosensitizing medications
• Have autoimmune or metabolic disorders
• Spend prolonged time in the sun
• Have a family history of sun allergies
• Use perfumes or skin products with certain essential oils or chemicals

Complications

If not properly managed, photodermatitis can lead to:

• Skin infections due to scratching or blistering
• Scarring or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• Chronic skin thickening or leathery patches
• Reduced quality of life due to avoidance of sunlight
• Psychological effects such as anxiety or social withdrawal
• Long-term UV damage increasing the risk of skin cancer

Prevention

Prevention is key to managing photodermatitis and reducing flare-ups:

• Avoid sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses outdoors
• Discontinue or replace photosensitizing medications if possible (with doctor’s guidance)
• Avoid using perfumed products or cosmetics before sun exposure
• Identify and avoid personal triggers through patch testing or allergen identification
• Install UV filters on windows and car windshields

Treatment Options in Korea

South Korea offers advanced dermatological care with access to specialized testing and innovative therapies for photodermatitis. Treatment options include:

• Topical corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin
• Antihistamines: For relief from itching and allergic symptoms
• Phototherapy (controlled UV exposure): To build skin tolerance in chronic cases (desensitization therapy)
• Immunosuppressive medications: For severe or autoimmune-related cases (e.g., cyclosporine, methotrexate)
• Patch testing: To identify allergens or photoallergens triggering the condition
• Custom skincare: Korean dermatology clinics offer hypoallergenic, medical-grade skincare routines to support healing
• Advanced diagnostics: Including phototesting and photopatch testing available in major university hospitals
• Medical tourism support: Korea’s dermatology clinics are well-equipped for international patients, offering consultations in English and streamlined appointment systems

From Seoul to Busan, Korea’s dermatology centers provide cutting-edge, patient-focused care combining modern medicine with innovation and comfort, making it a trusted destination for those seeking expert treatment for complex skin conditions like photodermatitis.