--- description: If you develop photosensitivity, you may be at risk for skin damage and skin cancer from even limited UV exposure. Find out what it is and what you can do. title: Photosensitivity image: https://www.skincancer.org/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1150050227.jpg --- [Home](https://www.skincancer.org/) › [Risk Factors](https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/) › Photosensitivity # Photosensitivity & Your Skin ## What It Is. How It Affects You. What You Can Do. No matter your skin type, if you develop **photosensitivity**, you may be especially at risk for lasting skin damage and [skin cancer](http://skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/) from even limited exposure to [ultraviolet (UV) radiation](http://skincancer.org/risk-factors/uv-radiation/). Understanding what photosensitivity is and why it occurs will help you take extra care to safeguard your skin health. Not everyone develops photosensitivity. But, if you have a higher risk, your best option is to take steps to prevent a sun-sensitive reaction from happening at all. - [What is photosensitivity?](#photosensitivity) - [Phototoxic reaction](#phototoxic) - [Photoallergic reaction](#photoallergic) - [What causes photosensitivity?](#causes) - [Why does it matter?](#why) - [If you have a reaction](#reaction) - [Sun protection basics](#protection) - [Safeguard against skin cancer every day](#safeguard) ### What is photosensitivity? Photosensitivity is heightened skin sensitivity or an unusual reaction when your skin is exposed to [UV radiation](http://skincancer.org/risk-factors/uv-radiation/) from sunlight or a tanning bed. You can become photosensitive as a result of prescription or over-the-counter [medications](https://skincancer.org/risk-factors/photosensitivity/medications/), a [medical condition](http://skincancer.org/risk-factors/photosensitivity/diseases) or genetic disorder, or even by using certain types of skin care products. There are two distinct types of photosensitivity reactions: **photoallergic** and **phototoxic**. ### Phototoxic reaction This is the most common reaction and usually occurs when a drug you’re taking (whether by mouth or topically applied) is activated by exposure to UV light and causes damage to the skin that can look and feel like a sunburn or a rash. This can also be triggered by certain ingredients in skin care products. A phototoxic reaction can happen within minutes or after hours of exposure and is usually limited to the skin that has been exposed. ### Photoallergic reaction This response is far less common and occurs when UV rays interact with the ingredients in medicines or other products applied directly to the skin. The body’s immune system recognizes changes caused by sun exposure as a foreign threat. The body produces antibodies and attacks, causing a reaction. A photoallergic reaction can leave you with a rash, blisters, red bumps or even oozing lesions one to three days after application and exposure to the sun. ### What causes photosensitivity? You can become **photosensitive** from: - **Medications**: Some widely used medications, including antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), antihistamines and certain heart medicines and statins for lowering cholesterol, can make you far more sensitive to sunlight than you’d usually be. Sun-sensitizing drugs can also aggravate existing skin conditions. Check this [detailed list of medications](https://skincancer.org/risk-factors/photosensitivity/medications/) that have been connected with photosensitivity reactions. - **Diseases and medical conditions**: Certain medical conditions and disorders, including autoimmune diseases like lupus, can make you hypersensitive to UV rays. [Check our report](http://skincancer.org/risk-factors/photosensitivity/diseases) to see a list of diseases and conditions that can cause photosensitivity. - **Skin-care products**: Certain ingredients in products you use to make your skin look better, such as retinols, glycolic acid or benzoyl peroxide, remove the outermost layer of skin to fight fine lines or acne. Brighteners like vitamin C may decrease the melanin in your skin, which acts as a natural defense against the sun’s rays. These may cause photosensitivity and increase your chances of damage from UV exposure. Being diligent about sun protection is crucial while using these products. ### Why does it matter? Photosensitivity reduces your natural defenses and elevates your risk for damage from the sun’s harmful rays. If you have a photosensitivity reaction due to medications or a medical condition, it can also potentially increase your risk of developing [skin cancer](http://skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/). ### What you can do To gain a better understanding about photosensitivity and your skin: - **Ask your doctor** about risks associated with any medicines you take or medical conditions you may have and how long any potential photosensitivity might last. - **Ask your dermatologist** about the risks of sun sensitivity from any skin-care products you are using for antiaging, skin brightening or acne, whether prescription or over-the-counter. - **Read the warning labels** and package inserts for your medications, skin-care products and supplements to understand your risks. ### If you have a reaction 1. **How do I treat a sunburn-like photosensitive reaction?** You can treat this type of photosensitivity reaction similar to the way you would [treat a sunburn](http://skincancer.org/risk-factors/sunburn/#treatment). 2. **When should I see a doctor?** See your physician if you develop flu-like symptoms, including fever with chills, nausea, headache and weakness, or if your skin blisters. A blistering sunburn is considered a second degree burn of the skin. This will require medical treatment beyond over-the-counter treatments. 3. **How do I know if my photosensitive reaction is drug-induced?** If a medication is the suspected cause, diagnostic tests, including phototesting, photopatch testing and clinical rechallenge can be completed to determine if the burn was secondary to a photosensitive reaction. Once a diagnosis of a drug-induced photosensitivity is made and the medication that caused it is identified, the medication may be discontinued, if possible. ### Sun protection basics 1. **Minimize your exposure** to UV radiation from the sun, especially during the peak hours of 10 AM to 4 PM, and avoid indoor tanning. Shade is your friend! 2. **Take extra care** to shield yourself from the sun. Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sun-protective clothing. Use a [broad-spectrum sunscreen](http://skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/) with an SPF of at least 30 on all exposed skin. Don’t forget the backs of your hands and reapply sunscreen every two hours. Find sunscreen products with our [Seal of Recommendation](http://skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/seal-of-recommendation/). 3. **Understand** how to safeguard your skin: [Your Daily Sun Protection Guide.](http://skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/) 4. **Check your skin monthly** and **visit a dermatologist at least once a year** for a professional skin exam. ### Safeguard against skin cancer Understanding photosensitivity is one step in a comprehensive approach to skin health. Be sure you understand all your [skin cancer risk factors](http://skincancer.org/risk-factors/) and [protect yourself](http://skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/), each and every day. ***Reviewed by:*** *Navin Arora, MD* [UV Radiation](http://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/uv-radiation/ "Ultraviolet UV radiation") [Tanning](http://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/tanning/ "Tanning") [Sunburn](http://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/sunburn/ "Sunburn") [Atypical Moles](http://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/atypical-moles/ "Atypical Moles") [Skin Type](http://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/skin-type/ "Skin Type") ## Sun & Skin News [10 Surprising Things About Your Skin](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/10-surprising-things-about-your-skin/)![Did you know your skin has a metabolism, a microbiome and it can repair some of its damage? Learn more fun facts about your skin here.]() [The Skin Cancer Foundation Journal](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/category/the-skin-cancer-foundation-journal/) ### [10 Surprising Things About Your Skin](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/10-surprising-things-about-your-skin/) [Time to Get Glowing! Our 4 Best Tips for Beautiful, Radiant Skin](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/get-glowing/)![A beauty routine is a great way to express style and individuality. Some people like to experiment with bright makeup, some like a classic look and others prefer to stay as natural as possible.]() [Healthy Lifestyle](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/category/healthy-lifestyle/) ### [Time to Get Glowing! Our 4 Best Tips for Beautiful, Radiant Skin](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/get-glowing/) [Top Trends in Skin Protection](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/top-trends-in-skin-protection/)![Sunscreen is having a “glow up,” a social media term that means makeover or transformation. Serum-like formulas, tints that better match your skin tone and multitasking treatment sunscreens are just some of the high-tech options now. Our experts provide intel on the latest innovations to help shield your skin from the sun.]() [The Skin Cancer Foundation Journal](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/category/the-skin-cancer-foundation-journal/) ### [Top Trends in Skin Protection](https://www.skincancer.org/blog/top-trends-in-skin-protection/) Last updated: March 2026 Open menu Menu Close menu SearchSearch ```json {"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.skincancer.org\/risk-factors\/photosensitivity\/","url":"https:\/\/www.skincancer.org\/risk-factors\/photosensitivity\/","name":"Photosensitivity - The Skin Cancer Foundation","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.skincancer.org\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.skincancer.org\/risk-factors\/photosensitivity\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.skincancer.org\/risk-factors\/photosensitivity\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.skincancer.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/GettyImages-1150050227.jpg","datePublished":"2019-07-03T16:39:31+00:00","dateModified":"2026-03-24T14:51:12+00:00","description":"If you develop photosensitivity, you may be at risk for skin damage and skin cancer from even limited UV exposure. 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There are two distinct types of photosensitivity reactions: phototoxic and photoallergic." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is a phototoxic reaction?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A phototoxic reaction is the most common type of photosensitivity reaction. It usually occurs when a drug you are taking — whether by mouth or applied topically — is activated by exposure to UV light and causes damage to the skin that looks and feels like a sunburn or rash. Certain ingredients in skin care products can also trigger a phototoxic reaction. It can occur within minutes or after several hours of sun exposure and is typically limited to the skin that was directly exposed to UV radiation." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is a photoallergic reaction?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A photoallergic reaction is far less common than a phototoxic reaction. It occurs when UV rays interact with the ingredients in medicines or other products applied directly to the skin, and the body's immune system recognizes the resulting changes as a foreign threat. The immune system produces antibodies and mounts an attack, causing a reaction. A photoallergic reaction can produce a rash, blisters, red bumps, or oozing lesions, typically appearing one to three days after the product application and UV exposure." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What medications cause photosensitivity?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Many widely used medications can cause photosensitivity, making your skin far more sensitive to sunlight than usual. These include certain antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antihistamines, certain heart medicines, and statins used to lower cholesterol. Sun-sensitizing drugs can also aggravate existing skin conditions. If you take any medication, it is important to read the warning labels and package inserts to understand your sun sensitivity risk. Ask your doctor how long any potential photosensitivity from a medication might last. The Skin Cancer Foundation maintains a detailed list of medications associated with photosensitivity reactions." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What medical conditions can cause photosensitivity?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Certain medical conditions and disorders can make you hypersensitive to UV rays. These include autoimmune diseases such as lupus, as well as various other genetic disorders and systemic conditions. If you have a medical condition that may cause photosensitivity, ask your doctor about your specific risks and how to manage sun exposure safely. The Skin Cancer Foundation provides a report on diseases and conditions associated with photosensitivity reactions." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can skin care products cause photosensitivity?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Certain ingredients in skin care products can cause photosensitivity and increase your chances of UV-related skin damage. Products containing retinols, glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide work by removing the outermost layer of skin to fight fine lines or acne, which can make skin more vulnerable to UV radiation. Skin-brightening products containing ingredients like vitamin C may decrease melanin in the skin, which acts as a natural defense against UV rays. If you use any of these products — whether prescription or over-the-counter — being diligent about daily sun protection is essential. Ask your dermatologist about the sun sensitivity risks associated with any antiaging, brightening, or acne products you use." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I treat a photosensitive reaction?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A sunburn-like phototoxic photosensitivity reaction can be treated similarly to a standard sunburn: get out of the sun immediately, cool the affected area with cold compresses or a cool shower, apply a gentle moisturizing lotion while skin is still damp, take an NSAID such as ibuprofen to reduce inflammation if appropriate, stay hydrated, and keep the affected skin out of the sun until it heals. See a physician if you develop flu-like symptoms — including fever with chills, nausea, headache, or weakness — or if your skin blisters. A blistering sunburn is considered a second-degree burn and requires medical treatment beyond over-the-counter care." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I know if my sun reaction was caused by a drug?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "If a medication is suspected as the cause of a photosensitive reaction, diagnostic tests including phototesting, photopatch testing, and clinical rechallenge can be completed to determine whether the burn was secondary to a photosensitive reaction. Once a diagnosis of drug-induced photosensitivity is confirmed and the responsible medication is identified, the medication may be discontinued if possible. Do not stop taking a prescribed medication without first consulting your doctor." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How should people with photosensitivity protect their skin?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "People with photosensitivity need to take extra care with sun protection. Key measures include: minimizing UV exposure, especially during peak hours of 10 AM to 4 PM, and avoiding indoor tanning entirely; wearing sun-protective clothing, a broad-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses; applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin — including the backs of the hands — and reapplying every two hours; checking the daily UV index; performing monthly skin self-exams; and seeing a dermatologist at least once a year for a professional full-body skin check. Understanding which medications, conditions, or products are affecting your sensitivity is essential — always read warning labels and consult your doctor and dermatologist about your specific risks." } } ] } ```