Sunscreen you can eat—and avoid allergies this summer

A sun allergy or polymorphous light eruption is basically your skin’s immune system acting like a vamp from an Ekta Kapoor soap. Here’s a guide to beat the heat.

Representational image | Commons

How is that big ball of energy in the sky treating you? Summer seems to have begun, and I should know—the number of folks who have come in with sun and summer-related skin allergies has gone up.

So, it’s time to talk about sun allergies.

Sun allergies

Summer is when you want to step out wearing the cutest dresses with the perfect accessories. But instead, here you are wondering why your face looks red and feels itchy.

A sun allergy or polymorphous light eruption is basically your skin’s immune system acting like a vamp from an Ekta Kapoor soap, creating unnecessary drama.

Your skin starts to display symptoms such as redness, itching, and even hives. Here’s a guide to beat the heat this summer.

1. Eat your sunscreen

Please don’t empty a tube of sunscreen into your gullet. I mean eating clean, giving your body an internal sunscreen of sorts.

As it turns out, your body can actually help you fight sun allergies. So don’t just dump sunscreen all over your body—you’ve got to internalise it too.

You have to go all in when it comes to your reds, greens, yellows, and purples: that’s strawberries, spinach, bell peppers, and blueberries. A greasy sub or a mayo-dripping burger might be your companion on cheat days but trust me, they’re not doing your skin any favours.

Now, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, hydrate.

You have to drink water like you’re getting paid to do so, and eat fruits that are water heavy. Watermelons, cucumbers, and coconut water can help push the sun allergies away.

2. Suit up!

Your outfits during the unbearable summer months need to be carefully picked, especially if you’re prone to sun allergies. That means long-sleeved shirts, wide hats, and giant sunglasses need to be your staples during the summer.

If you’re into sports, a gel sunscreen is your MVP. It’s lightweight, and sweat-proof. And if you’re into makeup, spray sunscreens should be your go-to.

3. All in good time

Timing is everything with sun and sun-related allergies. The sun is at its worst between 10 am and 4 pm, so I would suggest that you avoid stepping out during this time. 

Of course, if you have plans, try to spend as little time as you can in the sun and seek shade.

Don’t go from shade to extreme sun exposure. You must ease your skin into it and allow it to adapt to the sunlight at its own pace. This way, you won’t have to deal with any adverse reactions.

4. Slather on that sunscreen

Let me make one thing clear: sunscreen is not a choice. It is non-negotiable. And with the way the temperatures are rising—it is a lifestyle.

My advice is to use a wide-ranging and water-resistant UVA, UVB, or UVC blue light sunscreen that starts at SPF 30, at the very least. Take about half a fingertip of sunscreen and apply it 15 minutes before you step outdoors.

Yes, you have to use it on cloudy days as well because clouds don’t block UV rays. And yes, sunscreen needs to be reapplied every three hours.

If your skin type is sensitive, then you need to look for sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients act like physical blockers for UV rays.

And always check for the expiry date that’s posted on your sunscreen tube. If it’s older than three years, it’s time to throw it away.

5. Calm that storm

Sometimes, your skin might still throw a tantrum and refuse to cooperate. That’s when you bring out the big guns.

I’m talking about ice and curd.

If your skin is inflamed, you can try rubbing ice on the area to calm the inflammation. After that, you can apply some yogurt to complete the process. It will cool, soothe, and relieve your skin.

Then, wipe with a wet cloth and apply aloe vera gel to further calm your skin.

Sun allergies don’t have to ruin your summers if you take all the necessary precautions. With the right clothes, food, and skincare routine, you can enjoy the sun without the added drama.

Dr Deepali Bhardwaj is a Consultant Dermatologist, Max Hospital, Saket. She is also an anti-allergy specialist, laser surgeon and internationally trained aesthetician. She tweets @dermatdoc. Views are personal.

(Edited by Prasanna Bachchhav)