Photosensitivity

Photosensitivity is an increased sensitivity to UV radiation, leading to sunburn, rash, or blistering. Reactions can be phototoxic or photoallergic, with symptoms ranging from mild redness to severe blistering and potentially increasing skin cancer risk with prolonged exposure.

Photosensitivity is an increased sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or artificial sources. This can manifest as an exaggerated sunburn response, skin rash, blistering, or itching after even brief exposure to sunlight. The severity of the reaction depends on the dose of UV radiation, the individual's skin type, and any predisposing factors. Photosensitivity reactions can be phototoxic, where the substance directly absorbs UV light and damages the skin, or photoallergic, where UV light alters the substance, creating an allergen that triggers an immune response. Symptoms can range from mild redness to severe blistering and may persist for days or weeks after exposure. Prolonged or repeated photosensitivity reactions can increase the risk of skin cancer.