Lupus and Sun Exposure

Protecting yourself from sun exposure is an essential part of lupus management. Photosensitivity can trigger symptoms from skin rashes to serious internal organ damage. While excess sun exposure can cause flares in systemic lupus—the most common form of the condition—living with lupus should not mean depriving yourself of the outdoors.  

Click through the slideshow to learn ways you can protect yourself from the sun and lead an active life.

How UV Radiation Affects Lupus

Ultraviolet light is invisible radiation and contains three layers: UVA, UVB, and UVC. Studies have shown that UVB rays cause the most problems in lupus patients, but UVA radiation is also partly responsible. Exposure to sunligh tmay trigger the following symptoms:

• lupus rash or lesions
• joint pain
• fatigue

Wear Protective Clothing

Clothing should reflect or absorb sunlight before it reaches your skin. Avoid thin, light-colored fabrics that have a loose weave because UV rays can pass right through. Wear tightly woven, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats. Dark colors reflect UV rays better than light colors, and unbleached cotton (absorb UV) and polyester or silk with a high sheen (reflect UV) are the best fabrics for sun protection. High-tech clothing specifically designed to block UV rays can be found at sporting goods stores and online.

Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF)

Sun-protective clothing has a rating, known as Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). The UPF denotes the amount of UV light absorbed by the fabric. Like choosing a sunscreen, you want to check labels for a high UPF; levels range from 15-50+.

As with everyday clothes, sun-protective clothing could lose its effectiveness if stretched, wettened, or over-washed.

Choose the Right Sunscreen

When selecting a sunscreen, look for these indications on the bottle:

• sunprotection factor (SPF ) of 30 or more
• hypoallergenic
• broadspectrum protection (blocks UVB+UVA)
• physical blockers (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide)

Test the sunscreen on a patch of skin to check for sensitivity or allergy. The chemical composition of sunscreen changes due to heat exposure and time, so store it in a cool place and throw it away after one year.

Sunscreen Mistakes - Part 1

You may be wearing less sunscreen than you need. Cover all exposed skin areas; commonly missed areas are the middle of the back, sides of the neck, temples, and ears. If applied too thinly, sunscreen won't meet its SPF rating. How much is enough?

• 1 teaspoon for face and neck (half a teaspoon for children)
• 1 ounce (enoughto fill a shot glass) does the job for full-body coverage
• Apply 30 minutes before heading outside

Sunscreen Mistakes - Part 2

Remember to reapply sunscreen liberally and frequently after spending time outside or in the water. Health experts recommend reapplying sunscreen every two or three hours. One recent study suggests that reapplying sunscreen 20 minutes after going outside may significantly reduce your UV exposure.

Don’t befooled by fog or clouds. UV rays are still strong in cool, cloudy weather, and UV protection is just as important.

Medications and Sun Exposure

The harmful combination of chemicals and light is called phototoxicity. Phototoxic reactions occur when your skin is exposed to the sun after taking certain medications orally, topically,or via injection. Some of these drugs Include:

• certain antibiotics
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• diuretics
• certain cardiac medications

Talk to your doctor to find out if any medications you are taking might cause problems.

Don't Forget About Artificial Light

It’s not just sunlight you need to guard yourself against. For people with lupus, artificial light can also cause problems. Sources of this light include:

• fluorescent lighting
• photocopiers
• tanning beds

Limit or avoid exposure to these artificial light sources. Tanning beds should be avoided if you have lupus, because they could worsen your condition.

Staying Sun Smart

There are several practical precautionary measures you can take to block the dangerous UV radiation.

• Try your best to stay indoors when the sun is at its strongest—between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• If you have to be outdoors and can’t find shade, use an umbrella and wear protective clothing.
• Install sun shields on your house and car windows for UVA protection.

More Lupus Resources

For more helpful information about treating and managing lupus, visit the links below.

• Managing Lupus Your Way
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices for Lupus Patients
• Assessing Your Current Lupus Treatment
• Expert Q&A: Dr. Betty Diamond
• Reduce Lupus-Related Stress