Small red/purple dots after sun exposure.

[Sunna7]

I occasionally get tiny purplish/red dots on my legs and torso after taking a hot shower.  However, after getting just minutes of sun I noticed these dots develop on my legs.  What is this?  They are tiny, almost the size of a needle *****. I've never had a problem with the sun.  What is going on?

A little history.
I do have mild eczema flare ups and so does my dad. I've also been diagnosed with rosacea.  Recently I've been getting hives for what appears to be no apparent reason. Been on thryoid meds for just 2 days after having a TSH of 6.26.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms it can be solar dermatitis. 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 skin if the symptoms are severe.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Sunna7]

Oh, and I have fair skin and these tiny purple dots do not itch