HomeAnswersDermatologydermatitisWhy does my face turn red when I am exposed to sunlight?

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

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Shanza Ikram

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At December 4, 2017
Reviewed AtJanuary 22, 2024

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 moisturisers 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?

Answered by Dr. Shanza Ikram

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

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.

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

Dr. Shanza Ikram
Dr. Shanza Ikram

Dermatology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Dermatology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy