SUNBURN CURES

Treat Sunburn/Photodermatitis Symptoms

Particular nutritional deficiencies can contribute to photosensitivity. Pellagra, for example, is caused by a niacin deficiency. Recent research results suggest that antioxidant nutrients, including beta-carotene, may help lessen the severity of photodermatitis.

Beta-carotene and Other Carotenoids: Despite the fact that beta-carotene is considered part of standard treatment for photodermatitis, the results of studies regarding this supplement have been mixed. One study of the effect of beta-carotene supplements on sunburns in humans showed no significant protection. In another trial, though, 20 healthy subjects received either carotenoids alone, mainly from beta-carotene, or carotenoids plus vitamin E. Both groups improved significantly. Vitamin E did not appear to add to the benefits of the carotenoids alone.

Fish Oil/Omega-3 Fatty Acids: In one study, 13 patients with a particular type of photodermatitis received supplements of fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, for three months. Tests afterward showed that the patients were significantly less sensitive to UV rays. Similarly, case reports of three children with hydroa vacciniforme, a rare scarring photosensitivity disorder, found that omega-3 supplements lessened symptoms for two of the three children. Photosensitive patients could consider eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as from cold water fish.

Protein: Actinic prurigo, a form of photosensitivity marked by ongoing outbreaks of itchy bumps during hot weather, is seen mainly in malnourished individuals. Research suggests that the condition is related to a diet deficient in protein or a specific amino acid (the building blocks of protein). Patients treated with a high-protein diet have improved but tend to relapse a few weeks after returning to their standard diet.

Vitamin B3: Nicotinamide (a form of niacin, or vitamin B3) may make a photosensitive reaction less likely. In a pilot study, 42 people with photodermatitis were given nicotinamide; despite extensive sun exposure, 25 of these people did not develop lesions.

Vitamins C and E: Antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, help remove free radicals, harmful by-products that result from cells' use and generation of energy. Free radicals are linked to skin damage. Oral supplements of vitamins C and E seem to work together to possibly reduce UV-induced skin reactions.

Vitamin D: In animal studies, vitamin D helped trigger the effects of an antioxidant protein found in skin cells of rats. This protein helps to protect against damage from UVB rays. It is not clear yet whether vitamin D supplements may help protect humans in the same way.

Green Tea: The antioxidant properties in green tea (Camellia sinensis) may provide protection against reddening of the skin caused by UV light. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), an active component of green tea has demonstrated photoprotection in animal studies. In a human study, tests on skin samples showed that EGCG does not block the absorption of UVB light but it does appear to inhibit redness, some cell damage, and other changes normally associated with UVB rays.

Similar to photosensitizing medications, certain herbs can trigger photodermatitis; such herbs include St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), angelica seed or root (Angelica archangelica), celery stems (Apium graveolens), rue (Rutae folium), and lime oil/peel ( Citrus aurantifolia).

Most photosensitivity reactions go away on their own and cause no permanent harm. However, symptoms can be severe when associated with a systemic disorder or when the exposure has been severe. Some photosensitivity reactions can continue for years after exposure ends.

Complications may include:

Ongoing photosensitivity, resulting in chronic photodermatitis Hyperpigmentation or dark discoloration compared to normal skin tone even after inflammation has resolved Premature aging of the skin Squamous cell or basal cell skin cancer or melanoma

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