Can photosensitive rashes and other sun-induced manifestations of lupus be prevented?
Yes, to a large extent photosensitive rashes and other sun-induced problems can be prevented by keeping sun exposure to a minimum and using sunblock regularly in the summer months (often from April to October). This also means not going to hot sunny countries or mountainous areas where there is more UV light than in the UK. In particular, beware the increased UV exposure with snow, sea or other water due to additional light reflected on to the body (especially the neck and chin!). It is wise to avoid going out in the sun in the middle of the day in summer. Sunblock should be sun protection factor (SPF) 25 or greater and effective against UVA and UVB light. It should be put on in the morning and reapplied during the day (at least once or twice) as it tends to get rubbed off or sweated away, particularly in warm weather, and don’t forget your hands and feet! Sunblock should be used even on cloudy days by light-sensitive people because UV light can penetrate the cloud layer and you can ne
