Before commencing treatment for photodermatosis, it is important for your dermatologist to diagnose any predisposing conditions that may be contributing towards the light and sun sensitivity of the skin.

Predisposing Conditions

Sun sensitivity of the skin is present in conditions such as:

Polymorphic Light Eruptions

This is a form of dermatosis of the skin that affects more women than men. Lesions of papules, plaques and vesicles are usually present on the sun exposed areas of the skin. These lesions appear to be more common in the spring and summer seasons and occurs approximately 24 hours after the skin has been exposed to the strong sunlight.

Light and sun sensitivity of the skin, also known as photodermatosis, is the skin’s reaction to sunlight and primarily affects areas that are exposed to the sun. Usually it is seen as the formation of blisters (vesicles), reddish appearance of the skin and papules (little ‘bumps’ on the skin).

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight can causes degeneration of the elastic fibres of the dermis (deeper layers of the skin) and thickening of the epidermis (outer layer of the skin. This thickening of the epidermis is usually caused by an increase rate of cell division due to heat and light.

More Skin Care Tips

Do use products. You should cleanse your face every day using three different products. Cleanser, toner and moisturizer. Use products only for your skin type, i.e. oily, dry etc.

Do drink water. Water is essential for the hydration of the skin to keep it moist, soft, supple and clear. Loss of moisture from the skin is one main cause of wrinkles. You should drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

Do rest. We don`t get enough rest or sleep and are often tired. The average amount of sleep we need is 8 hours a night but less than half of us only have 5 to 6 hours. Not resting or sleeping properly will start to show as you age. Not only does lack of sleep make your eyes puffy but will make your skin look dry and dull too.

Exfoliate Tips

1. Starting at the soles of your feet and working your way up your body brush off any dry skin with a loofah or a body exfoliating brush. Do this before bathing or showering.

2. Once your body is thoroughly wet apply some exfoliating cleanser to your loofah or exfoliating brush.

3. Scrub your body with it, using gentle, circular motions.

4. Opt for grainy types of cleansers to clean the skin, rather than soap. The grainy texture exfoliates the skin better taking off all dry skin.

Step 1 – Cleanse

Cleansing you skin and removing dirt, makeup and other impurities that clog your skin is essential. You should cleanse your skin at least twice a day with a mild, non-irritating cleanser. Your cleanser should not strip your skin of its natural oils and it should easily rinse away.

Always consider your skin type first when choosing a cleanser. A good cleanser will remove impurities without leaving residue. You should avoid cleansing with soap. This is because skin is slightly acidic and soap is alkaline. This disrupts the skin’s naturally acidic protective film.

Oil based cleansers are suitable for all skin types.

Cream cleansers will suit a dry skin.

Smooth on the cleanser and leave it for a few seconds to dissolve impurities. Then very gently wipe it off with cotton wool or damp tissue. When using a wash off cleanser you should apply it to damp skin and then remove with warm water.