Sun Protection for Medical Conditions
UV radiation can provoke or aggravate a number of skin diseases.
Skin diseases provoked or worsen by UV radiation
Lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune disease accompanied by scaly rashes on both cheeks and the bridge of the nose, can be aggravated by UVB and/or UVA radiation. In such cases, sunscreen products with a high sun protection factor should be used for skin protection, especially on the face.
In the hereditary disease xeroderma pigmentosum, the DNA repair mechanism is defective. Any damage to the DNA caused by UVB can never be repaired. As a result, precancerous lesions develop on skin areas exposed to light (i) even at a young age followed by skin carcinomas and melanomas. These patients should avoid UV radiation at all times and use sunblocks.
Herpes simplex recidivans is a recurring disease with itching, a feeling of tightness and clusters of crusted blisters frequently occurring on the face (lips, nose) that is sometimes painful, and accompanied by regional swelling of lymph glands (i). Since UV radiation can cause a further outbreak, a sunblock or a protective stick with a high sun protection factor should be used before exposure to the sun.
Rosacea is a disease occurring in people with a high sensitivity to external noxae (i) that is manifested as reddening of the facial skin. The first stage of the illness is also known as couperose. Any triggering effect, and particularly UV radiation, must be avoided. To protect the skin from sunlight, sufferers should use a sunblock or daily sun protection product with a high protection factor, especially for the sensitive facial skin.
Albinism is a congenital absence of the pigment melanin affecting the whole body or parts of it. Melanocytes are present, but the enzyme responsible for melanin formation is dysfunctional. These patients should use sunscreens that have a high sun protection factor and are ultra waterproof.
Patients with vitiligo display defined, depigmented skin areas occurring roughly symmetrically on both sides of the body. Skin areas protected from light such as the armpits and genital area can also be affected. No melanin formation can take place in these areas. Only horny layer thickening is possible. Because of the reduced capacity of the skin's own protective mechanisms, the affected areas need to be additionally protected with suitable sunscreen products with a high sun protection factor.
UV radiation induces cell damage in different layers of the skin, especially in people with pigmentation disorders.
Patients with a history of UV-induced skin tumours (basaliom, spinaliom, melanom) are at a high risk of developing further skin tumours and must be especially protected from all forms of UV radiation. Therefore medicinal sunscreen products with a high sun protection factor that should also replenish lipids are required.
