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Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffPolymorphous light eruption treatment usually isn't necessary because the rash typically resolves on its own within a few days but may last a week or more. To lessen the reaction and prevent future episodes:
- Limit time spent in the sunlight.
- Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
- Consider using a nonprescription anti-inflammatory cream, which may help soothe your skin and reduce itching and discomfort.
If prevention steps aren't effective and you continue to experience sun reactions, your doctor may prescribe a medication, such as a corticosteroid cream, to reduce the inflammation.
- Morison WL. Photosensitivity. New England Journal of Medicine. 2004;350:1111.
- Habif TP. Light-related diseases and disorders of pigmentation. In: Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology: A Color Guide to Diagnosis and Therapy. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby; 2004. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/112343683-3/0/1195/133.html?tocnode=51442249&fromURL=133.html#4-u1.0-B0-323-01319-8..50021-2--cesec54_2402. Accessed Dec. 2, 2008.
- The sun and your skin. American Academy of Dermatology. http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/sun_sun.html. Accessed Dec. 3, 2008.
- DeLeo V. Sunscreen use in photodermatoses. Dermatology Clinics. 2006;24:27.
- Hawk JL, et al. Abnormal responses to ultraviolet radiation: Idiopathic, probably immunologic, and photo-exacerbated. In: Wolff K, et al. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 7th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2979797. Accessed Dec. 2, 2008.
- Millard TP, et al. Photosensitivity disorders: Cause, effect and management. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 2002;3:239.
- Bickers DR. Photosensitivity and other reactions to light. In: Fauci AS, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2868622. Accessed Dec. 3, 2008.
- Benseler SM, et al. Systemic lupus erythematosus. Rheumatic Disease Clinics of North America. 2007;33:471.
- FDA approves a new over-the-counter sunscreen product. Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2006/NEW01417.html. Accessed Dec. 10, 2008.
