Lupus patients also have skin that is far more sensitive to light than others. It means, the abnormal skin reaction to exposition to ultraviolet A/B radiation and visible light can produce adverse health effect. Photodermatoses are symptoms that are localized in sun-exposed skin sites (primarily face, neck and hands). Skin irritated by light can be red and painful. Different skin lesions can appear, for example in the form of blisters.
The skin’s sensitivity could be prolonged for weeks to even months, putting patients at risk of skin damage for a prolonged period of time. The systemic and skin symptoms of these patients also aggravate after exposure to the sun. Photophobia plays an important role in patients’ quality of life. As such, it is best for patients to stay away from direct lights, wear covering clothes, and utilize sunscreen. Sufficient photoprotection is a key step in managing symptoms in patients with lupus.
