PHOTOSENSITIVITY

Photosensitivity relates broadly to how skins react to light sources and is most commonly referred to in discussion about how easily skin reacts when exposed to sun light. Some skins are simply more vulnerable when exposed to UV sun light, fairer skins being a fine example. Skin can become more sensitive to light when orally taking various drugs (including some painkillers). Photo dermatitis is a term referred to when skin is more reactive to light because of substances/chemicals that have been applied to skin for example soap. Excessive sweating can lead to heat rash also known as prickly heat and is therefore more common in hot and humid environments. The effects to photosensitive skins include pink/red rashes, blotches, raised spots (sun spots) and blisters. The exposed area is typically sensitive with a burning sensation and can be very itchy with the appearance of blistery rashes and irritation not disappearing until several days later..