How to Prevent Sun Poisoning

Sun Poisoning, or photodermatitis, is the epidermis’ reaction to the UV rays put off by the sun. It is caused by over exposure to the sun however certain topical medications, vitamin deficiencies or other conditions may aggravate it further. Symptoms include red itchy rash, small blisters, pealing and occasionally nausea. The presence of the disorder can be identified through a photo test.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Avoiding exposure to the sun is the absolute best method to avoid sun poisoning. Also, avoiding the sun during peak hours is beneficial (noon to 3:00).

2. 

   Stay covered up. If the sun does not hit your skin directly, you will be much better off. Wear long sleeves and pants if possible. You may also want to purchase a wide brim hat or an umbrella for use when you are out in the sun.

3. 

   Wear high UVA sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher. PABA is a chemical found in sunscreen which can actually aggravate sun poisoning so it is best to purchase a sunscreen which does not have PABA.

4. Consuming the following foods on a regular basis may help to prevent sun poisoning.
   
   • Carrots or other foods which are rich in Beta Carotene
   • Fish, Flax Seed and other Omega-3 fatty acid foods.
   • Green tea and other antioxidant rich foods.
   • Vitamins B3, C, D, and E

5. Avoid chemicals which can aggravate this disorder. The following chemicals are known or suspected to contribute to sun poisoning.
   
   • Hexachlorophene
   • Lemon oil
   • NSAIDs.
   • Pellagra
   • Photo-active dyes
   • Ruta graveolins
   • Salicylanilide
   • Tetracycline antibiotics

[Alisiane]

on 9/24/2008 I didn't even know it was possible to get sun poisoning...really glad I ran across this article.

[Meri]

on 7/10/2008 Good article! I've had skin cancer on my face. My doctor says that the critical time to stay out of the sun is between 10am and 2pm. And I always wear sunscreen now . Hopefully, your article will help people NOT go through what I've been through...

[akchrist]

on 5/30/2008 Great article. I have a sensitivity to the heat of the sun so this information is very useful to me. I'm going save this as one of my favorites. Thanks.

[pianistic]

on 5/29/2008 Great!