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Dermatology (Expert Forum)
Mysterious reaction to sun when Birth Control Pill is not present
Answered by
Alan Rockoff, MD - dermatology, Child Skin Problems
The Rockoff Dermatology Center
Brookline - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Dermatology issues, such as: skin rashes, acne, birthmarks, skin infections, rosacea, and general skin care.
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Mysterious reaction to sun when Birth Control Pill is not present
by Merry, Apr 17, 2001 12:00AM
I have been taking Desogen brand oral contraceptive for approximately 6 years. About two years ago I went off for about 11 months. During that time if I went in the sun even for as little as 20 minutes, I would break out in a rash. This never happened to me before. I went to a Dermatologist and was told I had acne. Since this rash would only occur after exposure to the sun I refused to believe it. The rash was on my back, chest and stomach and I have never been prone to acne in all the 25 years of my life. I returned to the same Dermatologist after a break out and explained to him that I knew it wasn't acne. He then diagnosed me with Polymorphis Light Eruption. I went back on Desogen and have not had any reaction to the sun until recently. I have been using a tanning booth to get a base tan for an upcoming vacation. I went for two weeks without a problem and then a week ago, which happened to be the week I was on the inactive pills in my Desogen pack, I broke out with just a couple of itchy bumps on my chest and back. I have been applying hydracortizone and that seems to help. Now I am back on the active pills, but those same exact bumps that seemed to have gone completely away, come back after I use the tanning bed. I have descided to discontinue the use of the tanning bed and I will most likely take Benadryl while on vacation. I was curious to see if you have ever heard of a similar situation in regards to me having a sensitivity to the sun when I am OFF the pill. I know that it isn't uncommon for there to be a reaction when on the pill. My concern is that I will obviously not be on the pill for the rest of my life and I would like to try and figure out what is causing this reaction.
Thank you,
Merry.
Thank you,
Merry.
Doctor's Answer
by Alan Rockoff, MD, Apr 17, 2001 12:00AM
, Apr 17, 2001 12:00AM
I alos have not heard of light sensitivity while off the pill. I'm afraid your description reminds me of nothing I have seen or heard of before. Benadryl and a broad-spectrum (UVA-UVB) sunscreen seem like the best ideas.
Best.
Dr. Rockoff
Best.
Dr. Rockoff
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