Skin light sensitivity (photosensitivity)
Skin light sensitivity (photosensitivity)
Skin light sensitivity (photosensitivity) means your skin reacts to light in an unusual way. When the skin is exposed to light, this can cause symptoms such as pain, redness, itching or a rash. These symptoms can range from very mild to very severe.
There are different types of light sensitivity conditions. Some are very common, while others are rarer. They can affect anyone, including people of different ages and skin types.
Types of light sensitivity
Light sensitivity conditions can be put into different groups depending on what causes them.
Some light sensitivity conditions happen when the immune system reacts unusually to light. This includes light sensitivity conditions like:
- polymorphic light eruption
- juvenile spring eruption
- chronic actinic dermatitis
- solar urticaria
- actinic prurigo
- actinic folliculitis
- hydroa vacciniforme
Light sensitivity symptoms can also be a side effect of some drugs or chemicals, for example:
- doxycycline
- quinolone antibiotics like ciprofloxacin
- bendroflumethiazide and other thiazides
- quinine
- calcium channel blockers
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), although these rarely contribute to light sensitivity
- phenothiazines (including chlorpromazine and prochlorperazine)
- St John's Wort
These are only examples of drugs that may cause light sensitivity. It is not a complete list.
Speak to a healthcare professional if you are worried about the side effects of a medicine. Do not stop taking any medicine without speaking to your healthcare professional first.
Some light sensitivity conditions are caused by a genetic alteration. This includes:
- Xeroderma Pigmentosum
- Cockayne Syndrome
- Bloom Syndrome
- Rothmund-Thomson Syndrome
Photoaggravated skin diseases are also light sensitivity conditions. These conditions are not caused by light, but they can be triggered or made worse by exposure to light.
Some examples of photoaggravated light sensitivity conditions include:
- rosacea
- lupus erythematosus
- atopic dermatitis
- psoriasis
- Darier disease
- dermatomyositis
- pemphigus vulgaris or foliaceus
Common Symptoms
⚠️ This symptom list is for educational purposes. Having these symptoms does not mean you have this condition. See a doctor for proper diagnosis.
Medicines Commonly Used
⚠️ These medicines are commonly used for confirmed diagnoses of this condition. This is NOT a recommendation or prescription. Treatment must be determined by your doctor.
No medicines have been linked to this condition yet.
Diagnosis
If you think you have a light sensitivity condition, speak to your doctor. If needed, they may refer you to a dermatologist (skin specialist).
Most people will not need to be referred for light sensitivity testing. But if you do, your dermatologist may refer you to a light testing centre.
Treatment
A rash caused by light sensitivity can often be prevented by protecting your skin from the sun and keeping out of it where you can.
Your doctor will let you know whether you need any other treatment. This might include light-based treatments or medicines that calm down the immune system.
If light sensitivity is getting in the way of your everyday life, you may also benefit from psychological support.
If you have a light sensitivity condition, you may need to take a vitamin D supplement as well.