Using sunlight as a psoriasis treatment
As with all psoriasis remedies, consistency and persistence are keys to a successful outcome when using sunlight to treat psoriasis. Short, multiple exposures to sunlight are recommended. To get the most from the sun, give all affected areas equal and adequate exposure, but avoid overexposure and sunburn. Be aware that it can take several weeks or longer to see improvement. It is a good idea to see your dermatologist regularly to watch for sun damage.
Avoiding sunburn
While sunlight is generally good for psoriasis, too much can make your condition worse. A sunburn may cause psoriasis to flare. Some people experience a flare of their psoriasis when they injure their skin. This is called the Koebner [keb-ner] phenomenon. You are most likely to experience a Koebner response if your psoriasis is active or if you have a history of flares due to skin injuries. Sunburns can also increase your risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
If you get a sunburn, treat it with cool baths (with oatmeal), bland moisturizers or over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams. Taking aspirin can also help with the pain associated with a sunburn.
Seek medical attention if your sunburn is severe and accompanied by a headache, chills or fever.
Using a sunscreen
Sunlight is a potent treatment that can both help and harm. It is very important to use a sunscreen to protect the unaffected areas of the body to prevent damaged skin and skin cancer. You can follow recommendations by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) for using a sunscreen on skin unaffected by psoriasis:
- Wear a broad-spectrum ultraviolet light A (UVA) and ultraviolet light B (UVB) sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15;
- Use sunscreen every day if you are going to be in the sun for more than 20 minutes;
- Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors;
- When applying sunscreen, pay particular attention to the face, ears, hands and arms, and generously coat the skin;
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or strenuous activity.
Sensitivity to sun varies from person to person (see table in phototherapy section). People with skin types I-IV, who are most likely to sunburn, benefit from high protection sunscreens.
Protective glasses
Sunbathers should use sunglasses that filter UVA and UVB rays. Long-term exposure to ultraviolet light can produce cataracts. An ophthalmologist or optometrist can recommend a brand of glasses. Sunglasses sold in retail stores must be marked "100 percent UVA and UVB protection," or they probably do not provide necessary protection. It is wise to invest in a high-quality pair of sunglasses from an optical shop if sunbathing is a regular activity.
Updated October 2005 |
