Itching (like whiteheads) bumps after exposed to Sun...........

This has been going on for a few years, everytime i go outside and my arms are exposed, mostly the forearms, after awhile I develop red, itchy bumps on my arms, not in huge clusters, just here and there along my forearm. It doesn't even have to be a hot summer day, any type of sun exposure makes these appears, like if i'm working in the garden, mowing the grass, or just outside for a medium length of time. It only happens in the spring and summer months when the sun is the hottest and my arms are exposed. What could this be? Thanks. Help.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm anything without examination but it sounds like solar urticaria.

It is the development of hives minutes after exposure to the sun, which resolve in less than 1 hour.

Apply a good sunscreen with minimum spf 30 atleast half an hour before going out in the sun.You can take non-sedating antihistamines such as Cetirizine or Loratadine(Claritin) when the rash appears. Short courses of oral cortisone or steroids are taken for short periods (one to three days) to settle more severe symptoms.You may take Vitamin C along with the prescribed treatment. Vitamin C is a general anti-allergy supplement. Also apply calamine lotion and a mild steroid cream like dermacort on the rash.
If the symptoms are severe then it will be best to consult a dermatologist.
I hope that helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.