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

Question

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.

Answer 1

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.