Can Kids Be Allergic to the Sun?

Abstract

Some people may experience an unusual and dramatic skin response to light exposure. This is called photosensitivity. Patients with photosensitivity may develop a rash, or symptoms such as swelling, itch, numbness, or pain after exposure to light. Symptoms usually follow exposure to sunlight, but artificial light sources such as light bulbs may also cause skin reactions. While photosensitivity is more common in adults, it also affects children, and certain photosensitivity conditions can begin in childhood. In this article, we discuss ways that kids can be sensitive to sunlight and the negative impact this can have on the mental health of affected individuals.