Irritation of the skin and itching felt after exposure to the sun is usually a symptom of sunburn, caused by excessive exposure to the sun's harmful rays. It could also be due to a sun allergy, in which the skin exposed to the sun breaks in a red, itchy rash which could even develop into hives or small blisters. Though the main reason for sun allergy has not yet been established, there are speculations that it occurs due to changes in the skin following exposure to the sun's rays. Prevention is better than cure and treatment for sun allergy also begins with prevention. Before stepping out, you should always apply a good sunscreen lotion with sun protection favor (SPF) of at least 15 and a protective cover against ultraviolet A and B rays. Always take care to protect even your lips with a good sun-block of SPF 20 or more. Avoid stepping out into the sun between 11 am and 3 pm and if you must step out, protect your skin by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using a parasol. You should wear loose cotton clothes that cover your skin as much as possible, to reduce exposure to the sun.
There are several simple home remedies and natural treatments for sun allergy. You can take a refreshing bath with lukewarm water with 1 cup of baking soda. Soak your self in this water, making sure that the affected parts are covered with the water. If your face has been affected, then wash your face with this water. Milk also has a soothing effect on the rash. You can mix milk and water in the ratio of 1:1 and apply it on the affected areas using a soft cloth. Oatmeal can also be used an effective treatment for sunburns and sun allergies. You can prepare a bath with 3 to 4 tbsp of oatmeal in your bathwater to reduce the itching. Another effective remedy for sun allergy can be prepared by mixing the oil from Vitamin E capsules, 1 tsp of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tsp of lavender oil and 1/3 cup of Aloe Vera gel. This has a soothing effect on the skin, reducing the rash and sealing the moisture in the skin, preventing dehydration. This also protects the skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. Yet another effective remedy for sun allergy can be prepared by mixing St. John's Wort with water in the ratio of 1:9 and applied directly to the skin. This releases the heat trapped under the skin and also soothes the damaged nerve endings.
answered by G M