Sunburn with rash

[Coyla]

Every time I am out in the sun for a period of time especially sunbathing I always break out into a rash. It itches like crazy and I get bumps all over of course where ever the sun was exposed to. I like laying out and try to get some color cause my skin is so pale but fair. How can I lay out in the sun without worrying about a bad rash later. Any remedies to do before or after being in the sun?

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

What you describe seems like sweat dermatitis or heat rash or solar urticaria.

You should try to keep the area dry and clean. Try some powder to absorb the sweat.

Apply calamine lotion at the site and take some oral antihistamine medications for your complaints.

You should use a medicated sun screen when you go out and also try to avoid sun exposure.

If the symptoms are still persistent, consult your dermatologist and get a proper clinical evaluation done.

Let us know if you have any doubts and keep us posted on how you are doing.

Good luck.

[redblue]

Sunless tanners look very natural and they have improved greatly in the past few years.  I also have very fair skin and I use sunless tanner to at least get a little color.

[BhumikaMD]

Dear Coyla,

It appears that you have a bad case of sensitivity to the sun. This is not surprising since you mentioned that you are fair, and that implies you have less melanin in your skin to protect you from the sun. The only way forward for you is to protect yourself as much as possible. protective clothing and sunscreen lotions are the best help. Tanning in the sun would actually expose you to a lot of sun and if there are any areas which get undue exposure, you may get sun burns again.

If you really like the tan, you should probably take some professional help from a dermatologist who may be able to guide you further.

Let me know if I answered your query or if you need further clarification.

All the best.

[Pum]

You should really tell a doctor this. It could be nothing but sometimes this symptom is associated with autoimmune disease. Do you have joint pain or fatigue or swelling?

Otherwise, I'd say you should avoid the sun if you can. Clothes and hats.

Good luck.