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Summer light eruption an extremely common sun allergy

Symptoms

What it looks like: small, red spots accompanied by itching

Very common, benign summer light eruption particularly affects women between the ages of 15 and 35. Just as uncomfortable as it is unattractive, it takes the form of small, red spots accompanied by itching. Sparing the face, it appears on the neckline, shoulders, arms and legs, not to mention the instep.

Origins

The primary cause? UVA rays

Triggered by ultraviolet rays, and more especially UVA rays, summer light eruption generally appears 12 hours after exposure. Relapses are often inevitable. Light eruption can be more severe: more spots, more itching and more affected areas.

Treatments

Prevention

The primary treatment is still prevention. The ideal solution would be to avoid all sun exposure or to wear protective clothing.
If exposed to sun:

• Avoid tanning between noon and 4 p.m.
• Opt for gradual exposure (20 to 30 minutes per day)
• Use sun protection creams with a high protection factor and a broad spectrum (anti-UVB and anti-UVA)
• Reapply the cream every two hours

All these precautions must be taken regardless of the time of day.