Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises the general public to choose a sunscreen with at least 15 SPF, lupus experts state people with lupus should use sunscreens with at least 30 SPF but 70+ is even better, as lupus causes increased sensitivity to UV (photosensitivity).
What does the sun do to your skin if you have lupus?
Many people with lupus experience photosensitivity or unusual sensitivity to sunlight. This can trigger symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, and burning. Excess sun exposure can also cause flares in systemic lupus, triggering symptoms such as joint pain, weakness, and fatigue.
How can I control my lupus rash?
Antimalarials, such as hydroxychloroquine or quinacrine, methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, prednisone, azathioprine, and others, also may be used to treat lupus rashes. Staying in the shade, using a sunscreen, and avoiding ultraviolet (UV) light exposure to protect your skin also can help prevent a lupus rash.Jun 26, 2019
Is the sun good for lupus?
If you have lupus, protecting yourself from sun exposure is an essential part of managing your condition. Many people with lupus experience photosensitivity or unusual sensitivity to sunlight. This can trigger symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, and burning.
Are all lupus patients sensitive to sunlight?
Photosensitivity is common in people with lupus: 40% to 70% of people with lupus will find that their disease is made worse by exposure to UV rays from sunlight or artificial light.Jun 7, 2021
Does hot weather affect lupus?
Studies have found that “75 percent of patients with systemic lupus and 90 percent of discoid lupus patients will suffer flare-ups of symptoms from even brief exposures to sun or heat.”Jun 21, 2017
Is lupus worse in the summer?
Lupus and Summer Weather Sun and heat exposure can cause symptoms to flare up because when UVA or UVB rays hit the skin, inflammation in the cells naturally occurs and often sets off a chain reaction of other symptoms.Jun 21, 2017
What can make lupus worse?
What can trigger a lupus flare? Emotional stress -- such as a divorce, death in the family, or other life complications -- and anything that causes physical stress to the body -- such as surgery, physical harm, pregnancy, or giving birth -- are examples of triggers that can set off lupus or bring about a lupus flare.Jul 29, 2020
What does the beginning of a lupus rash look like?
A lupus rash can appear in the following ways: A scaly, butterfly-shaped rash that covers both your cheeks and the bridge of your nose, This rash will not leave any scarring in its wake, but you may notice some skin discoloration such as dark or light-colored areas. Red, ring-shaped lesions that do not itch or scar.
What color is a lupus rash?
malar rash, which appears as a butterfly-shaped red or different color rash across the cheeks and nose, that may feel painful or itchy. a raised, scaly rash on the skin. sores in the nose or mouth. pain and swelling of joints.
What is lupus rash like?
Lupus Symptom: Butterfly Rash A tell-tale sign of lupus is a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and bridge of the nose. Other common skin problems include sensitivity to the sun with flaky, red spots or a scaly, purple rash on various parts of the body, including the face, neck, and arms.Feb 9, 2020