One of the most mysterious and most troublesome forms of eczema to deal with is photoaggravated eczema. In this specific type of skin condition, the usual type of eczema is caused by, worsened by, or aggravated by the presence of sunlight or other types of full spectrum lighting. This condition is most common among children although many adults live with it on a daily basis. Today on the ScratchMeNot blog, we’ll explore many different facets of the complex sun sensitivity issue.
Photoaggravated Eczema
Whenever eczema or other skin conditions are worsened by exposure to the sun or full spectrum lighting, the term ‘photoaggrevated’ is used. This term implies that the light itself causes a disruption in the function or health of the skin which creates issues or causes existing issues to worsen.
Many people who experience light sensitive skin conditions find that medications or treatments are the underlying cause. Creams, salves, and even internal medications can cause the skin to become more sensitive than usual which can lead to big problems with pre-existing conditions like eczema. It’s important that if you are experiencing aggravated conditions in the sun that you check to see if your current meditations may be causing the issue.
Some people don’t need medication to help their skin along the photoaggravated eczema path. Skin that doesn’t have the ability to protect itself fully from the rays of the sun can cause regular eczema or other skin conditions to become worsened.
Treating Photoaggravated Eczema
We are fortunate because an evolving area of dermatology has broken into the healing world. Photodermatology looks specifically at how the sun and other lights influence the health of the skin, and it is from this area of study that we are getting the most up to date and helpful information.
Many specialty medications have been created that can help with photoaggravated eczema and other sun allergy issues, so there is hope! Many people find that working with both an allergist and a dermatologist is a great combination when treating sun allergy and light sensitivity issues.
Between visits, minimizing the amount of sun that reaches the skin by choosing the right clothing, hats, and times of day to venture out can help a lot. Make sure to note the medications being used and research them to find out about possible connections to the issue. If you discover anything, get in touch with the prescribing doctor.
Photoaggravated Eczema Resources
For more information on photoaggravated eczema, check out some of these online resources…
Bethany’s Page – The Journey Of A Young Girl With Photoaggravated Eczema
SunAllergy.Org – Dr. Sarkany’s Resources
DermNet Information On Photoaggravated Eczema
We’ll continue to explore this topic in detail, so stay posted!