As we know, the sun does not only do good. All the more so if you are allergic, a pathology that affects one in four people each year, or 10% of adults. In Sans Rendez-vous, on Europe 1, Doctor Damien Mascret, gives his advice to better guard against this type of allergy.
>> Find the full walk-in replay and podcast here
What do we know about these sun allergies?
"It is not an allergy in the literal sense. It is called lucitis. It is a reaction of the immune system. The disadvantage is that we do not know why this allergy appears in some patients and not in others. We also don't know why the allergy suddenly goes away. "
What are the symptoms of a sun allergy
"The classic form of allergy to the sun consists of the appearance of small red pimples. Red patches can also appear. The most revealing sign is itching. There is also another form of allergy: acts of the polymorphic lucite which appears normally as of spring and which touches the face. Which is very debilitating. "
What are the remedies?
"First, the doctor can prescribe antihistamines. In the most severe cases, we can use a dermocorticoid which is made up of corticosteroids, but which can also be a powerful anti-inflammatory."
How can we prepare for the sun?
"Naturally with tanning. We tan because our skin will protect us when we are exposed to the sun. It will thicken and then secrete through the melanocyte a small pigment that will eventually darken the skin. which will filter the sun's rays. You have to go slowly, especially at a certain period between 12 noon and 4 pm. So you have to go gradually. Avoid the sun baths the first few days. The simple exposure you have to the sun will activate all your melanocytes. It will color your skin nicely. But be careful, the tan does not filter all UV rays. So if possible you should put on a t-shirt for children and obviously use sunscreen, at least index 50. "
Can we prepare for the sun using artificial UV?
"No, we absolutely must avoid UV booths. We know that this is a disaster because artificial UV rays will not only prevent the natural thickening reaction of the skin that we will have with the sun's rays, but in addition they promote the risk of cancer. It's been twenty years that the Academy of Medicine has been trying to ban them. ANSES added a layer two years ago. But for the moment no minister has not tackled the problem. But sometimes dermatologists recommend UV treatments. It’s puvatherapy. It’s really a special case like dealing with psoriasis. social Security."