Photosensitivity: Causes, symptoms and how best to protect your skin

Photosensitivity is an abnormal skin reaction to sunlight (UV and sometimes visible light). It can be caused by medications, underlying health conditions, and some genetic factors, too.

Symptoms usually will appear on sun-exposed areas and be mild or severe. It’s uncomfortable, and often frustrating when a trigger isn’t immediately obvious, however, there are some steps that can be taken to address this issue (1).

What photosensitivity is

Photosensitivity happens when the skin has an abnormal reaction to ultraviolet (UV) light, usually from the sun. This reaction happens because the skin’s natural ability to protect itself is reduced.

Exposure to UV light can then cause inflammation, discomfort or visible skin changes.

These reactions often follow a clear pattern, showing up only on areas that were exposed to light. The eyes can also be affected and may become more sensitive or irritated in bright environments (2).

How it shows up on the skin

Your skin may turn red or feel sore, similar to sunburn, and may sting or itch. Small red bumps or raised patches can also appear on exposed areas.

Reactions such as this often stop where clothing or accessories have covered the skin, leaving sharp lines that show what you were wearing (3).

Timing varies. Phototoxic reactions often occur within minutes to hours and resemble an intense sunburn; photoallergic reactions are less common and often appear 1–3 days later.

Why it matters

Photosensitivity increases the risk of skin damage. Repeated exposure can make symptoms worse.

Certain causes of photosensitivity, like medications or medical conditions, may also increase the risk of developing more serious skin issues. Spotting the signs early and knowing how to protect your skin can help avoid more damage (4).

What tends to cause photosensitivity

Photosensitivity can be caused by several different factors:

Medications including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, antihistamines, statins and some heart medicines.

Autoimmune conditions such as lupus.

Some popular skincare ingredients like retinoids, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide and vitamin C*.

Genetic factors or exposure to certain plants or chemicals.

*Some skincare ingredients can also make the skin more reactive to sunlight, especially those that exfoliate or brighten.

Please note: If you suffer from photosensitivity reactions and think something in particular may be leading to flare-ups, it may be advisable to seek the opinion of your healthcare practitioner or dermatologist to review which products you should be using.

Types of photosensitivity reactions

There are said to be two main types (5):

Phototoxic reactions: Triggered when UV light activates a substance on, or in the skin. These usually appear quickly and feel like an intense sunburn.

Photoallergic reactions: Involve the immune system. These take longer to show up and can last longer once they appear.

What's the difference between prickly heat and photosensitivity?

Prickly heat and photosensitivity are different conditions with distinct causes:

prickly heat is a heat rash caused by blocked sweat ducts, while photosensitivity (sun allergy) is an abnormal immune system reaction to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

If you react

Mild symptoms can often be managed with after-sun care: cool compresses, soothing moisturisers and avoiding further sun exposure. But, if symptoms include blistering, fever, chills, nausea or fatigue, seek immediate medical attention.

If you think a medication might be involved, speak to your doctor. Testing may help identify the cause and lead to a better treatment plan.

What you can do

Understanding your own risk factors is the first step.

So, if you take regular medication, check for any sun-related warnings.

Look at skincare labels before using active ingredients. If you have a health condition linked to photosensitivity, get tailored advice from a healthcare professional.

Paying attention to what’s going on with your skin helps you catch things early.

Nutrition for sun protection

Sunscreen is necessary, but for skin affected by photosensitivity, sun protection can also come from within.

Plant compounds known as phytochemicals, found in foods and herbs such as green tea, turmeric and raspberry seed oil, may help the skin cope better with light exposure. These naturally occurring phenolics, flavonoids and carotenoids support antioxidant defences and help neutralise free radicals triggered by UV light, which can aggravate sun sensitivity.

Some phytochemicals, particularly polyphenols and flavonoids, are also able to absorb UVA and UVB radiation. By limiting how much UV reaches skin cells, they may help reduce light-induced stress and reactions, offering an added layer of support for photosensitive skin.

Here are some products that harness the actions of these phytochemicals to help protect your skin:

Viridian Pine bark extract

YourGut Glow

Viridian S.P.F Pro Skin Factors

Terranova Skin Drink

Shop sun protection essentials:

Vinosun High Protection Cream SPF50 (50 ml)

Vinosun After-Sun Repairing Lotion

Cellular Protection Sunscreen SPF50 (40ml)

Glory Veil SPF 50+ (150ml)

Daily protection makes a difference

Remember to:

1- Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning. Including commonly missed areas like the ears, lips, neck and backs of hands.

2- Reapply every 2 hours, especially after sweating heavily or swimming

3- Cover up with wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and long sleeves

4- In high-UV, stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm

5- Avoid indoor tanning salons

What you should know

Photosensitivity can appear unexpectedly and may be linked to a number of triggers like medication, skincare or underlying conditions.

Learning what your trigger is, protecting your skin and speaking to a healthcare provider where it's required, can all help to keep symptoms under control.

If you have any more questions, feel free to refer to a member of our team for advice.