Related Items: Light Sensitivity
Photosensitivity Information
People with photosensitivity have an immunological response to light, usually sunlight.
They typically break out in a rash when exposed to sunlight; how much exposure it takes to
cause a reaction varies from person to person. Several conditions, such as erythropoietic
protoporphyria and polymorphous light eruption, share the common symptom of hypersensitivity
to light—also typically sunlight.
People taking certain prescription drugs (sulfonamides, tetracycline, and thiazide diuretics) or herbs (St. John’s wort, for example) and those with systemic lupus erythematosus have increased
susceptibility to adverse effects from sun exposure.
What are the symptoms of photosensitivity?
Symptoms may include a pink or red skin rash with blotchy blisters, scaly patches, or
raised spots on areas directly exposed to the sun. The affected area may itch or burn, and the
rash may last for several days. In some people, the reaction to sunlight gradually becomes
less with subsequent exposures.
Medical treatments for photosensitivity
Over the counter supplementation with
beta-carotene may reduce the severity of reactions.
The prescription drug hydroxychloroquine
(Plaquenil®) might help to reduce the severity of reactions. Oral corticosteroids such as triamcinolone
(Aristocort®, Kenalog®), betamethasone (Valisone®, Diprosone®), and
fluocinonide (Lidex®) are often prescribed to clear up the skin rash once it has
appeared. In some cases, psoralens, such as trioxsalen (Trisoralen®), plus ultraviolet
therapy (PUVA) is administered over the course of several weeks to prevent
photosensitivity.
Other treatment includes the avoidance of direct sunlight and the use of sunscreen. In
addition, individuals should avoid medications and substances that are known to cause
photosensitivity.
Dietary changes that may be helpful for photosensitivity
One of the conditions that may trigger photosensitivity—porphyria cutanea
tarda—has been linked to alcohol consumption.1 People with this form of
porphyria should avoid alcohol. Some people have been reported to develop a photosensitivity
reaction to the artificial sweetener,
saccharin.2
Lifestyle changes that may be helpful for photosensitivity
People with photosensitivity need to protect themselves from the sun by using sunscreen,
wearing protective clothing (such as long-sleeved shirts), and avoiding excess exposure to the
sun.
Nutritional supplements that may be helpful for photosensitivity
Years ago, researchers theorized that
beta-carotene in skin might help protect against sensitivity to ultraviolet light from the
sun. Large amounts of beta-carotene (up to 300,000 IU per day for at least several months)
have allowed people with photosensitivity to stay out in the sun several times longer than
they otherwise could tolerate.3 4 5 The protective effect
appears to result from beta-carotene’s ability to protect against free-radical damage caused by
sunlight.6
Adenosine monophosphate (AMP) is a
substance made in the body that is also distributed as a supplement, although it is not widely
available. According to one report, 90% of people with porphyria cutanea tarda responded well
to 160 to 200 mg of AMP per day taken for at least one month.7 Complete alleviation
of photosensitivity occurred in about half of the people who took AMP.
In a small preliminary trial, supplementation with fish oil (10 grams per day for three months) reduced
photosensitivity in 90% of people suffering from polymorphous light eruptions.8
Less is known about the effects of supplementation with other antioxidants on photosensitivity. Research with vitamin E has been limited and has not yielded
consistent results.9 10
Cases have been reported of people with photosensitivity who responded to vitamin B6 supplementation.11 12
Amounts of vitamin B6 used to successfully reduce reactions to sunlight have varied
considerably. Some doctors suggest a trial of 100 to 200 mg per day for three months. People
wishing to take more than 200 mg of vitamin B6 per day should do so only under medical
supervision.
Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, can
reduce the formation of a kynurenic acid—a substance that has been linked to
photosensitivity. One trial studied the effects of niacinamide in people who had polymorphous
light eruption.13 While taking one gram three times per day, most people remained
free of problems, despite exposure to the sun. Because of the potential for adverse effects,
people taking this much niacinamide should do so only under medical supervision.
Are there any side effects or interactions with Photosensitivity?
Refer to the individual supplement for information about any side effects or interactions.
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational
purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in
vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article.
The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of
the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter
medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or
pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before
making any changes in prescribed medications.
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