Photoallergens: what are they and how do they affect our skin?
Photoallergens are substances that can cause allergic reactions on the skin when exposed to sunlight. These substances can be found in cosmetics, medicines, foods, and plants.
An allergic reaction to a photoallergen manifests itself in the form of various symptoms, such as itching, redness of the skin, swelling, rashes, burning and even severe pain. Some people may also experience headache, nausea and general weakness.
The most common photoallergens are aromatic compounds such as benzophenone, octocrylene, octoxynol, sodium cinnamate, and plant extracts such as tree and herb extracts.
To reduce the risk of an allergic reaction to a photoallergen, you must carefully study the composition of cosmetics and food products, and also consult a doctor before starting medication treatment.
If an allergic reaction to a photoallergen occurs, you must immediately stop using the product that caused the reaction and consult a doctor for treatment.
It is also worth remembering that protecting your skin from sun rays is one of the most effective methods of preventing allergic reactions to photoallergens. Therefore, it is necessary to use products with a high level of protection against UV rays, and also avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during periods of maximum solar radiation intensity.
Thus, photoallergens can become a serious problem for skin health. However, if you follow the recommendations and properly protect your skin from the sun, you can reduce the risk of allergic reactions and maintain healthy skin for many years.