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My face turns red when I am exposed to sunlight. What could it be?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 21-year-old male trying to achieve an overall good facial complexion. For a number of years now my skin seems to be a bit damaged and has a lot less color to it than the rest of my body. My face seems to have general redness which is accelerated in the winter. I wash my face daily and use moisturizers but it seems to have no real effect. I smoke occasionally and go on sunbeds around once a week as it seems as though when my skin is whiter, the redness is more apparent. I do not feel as if it is as much of a problem in dark lighting, but I feel way more exposed in bright white lighting. I also follow a pretty good diet. Would you be able to help me in this regard?

Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Shanza Ikram

Education:

FCPS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shanza Ikram is a highly experienced Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She is skilled in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, offering advanced treatments for conditions like acne, eczema, pigmentation, and aging concerns. With her patient-focused approach, Dr. Ikram provides personalized care to promote healthy and radiant skin.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Right now, you are having photocontact dermatitis, which is redness of exposed skin parts on exposure to sunlight. This may be followed by hyperpigmentation and that is why you are observing different facial skin tones as compared to the rest of the body. I suggest you apply sunblock with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 40 to 60. For 15 to 20 minutes, you can go out or even stay indoor as indoor lights also emit ultraviolet rays. Apply this after every two to three hours.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At December 4, 2017
Reviewed At October 30, 2024

Education:

FCPS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shanza Ikram is a highly experienced Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She is skilled in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, offering advanced treatments for conditions like acne, eczema, pigmentation, and aging concerns. With her patient-focused approach, Dr. Ikram provides personalized care to promote healthy and radiant skin.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

FCPS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shanza Ikram is a highly experienced Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders. She is skilled in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, offering advanced treatments for conditions like acne, eczema, pigmentation, and aging concerns. With her patient-focused approach, Dr. Ikram provides personalized care to promote healthy and radiant skin.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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