Polymorphous Light Eruption Overview
Learn About Polymorphous Light Eruption
Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE) is a common skin reaction in people who are sensitive to sunlight (ultraviolet light).
Polymorphic light eruption; Photodermatosis; PMLE; Benign summer light eruption
The exact cause of PMLE is unknown. However, it may be genetic. Health care providers think it is a type of delayed allergic reaction. It is common among young women who live in moderate (temperate) climates.
Polymorphous means taking on different forms, and eruption means rash. As the name suggests, symptoms of PMLE are rash-like and are different in different people.
PMLE most often occurs in spring and early summer on areas of the body exposed to the sun.
Symptoms usually appear within 1 to 4 days after exposure to sunlight. They include any of the following:
- Small bumps (papules) or blisters
- Redness or scaling of the skin
- Itching or burning of the affected skin
- Swelling, or even blisters (not often seen)
Steroid creams or ointments containing vitamin D may be prescribed by your provider. They are used 2 or 3 times a day at the start of the eruption. Steroid or other types of pills may be used for more severe cases.
Phototherapy may also be prescribed. Phototherapy is a medical treatment in which your skin is carefully exposed to ultraviolet light. This may help your skin become used to (sensitized to) the sun.
David Adams is a Dermatologist in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Dr. Adams and is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Polymorphous Light Eruption. His top areas of expertise are Actinic Keratosis, Congenital Hypotrichosis Milia, Hereditary Mucoepithelial Dysplasia, and Stiff Skin Syndrome.
Charlotte Modly is a Dermatologist in Reisterstown, Maryland. Dr. Modly and is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Polymorphous Light Eruption. Her top areas of expertise are Localized Scleroderma, Rosacea, Malignant Hypertension, and Female Pattern Baldness.
Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center
Emily Merkel is a Dermatologist in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Merkel and is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Polymorphous Light Eruption. His top areas of expertise are Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Actinic Keratosis, Giant Congenital Melanocytic Nevus, and Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma Syndrome. Dr. Merkel is currently accepting new patients.
Many people become less sensitive to sunlight over time.
Call for an appointment with your provider if PMLE symptoms do not respond to treatments.
Protecting your skin from the sun can help prevent PMLE symptoms:
- Avoid sun exposure during hours of peak sun ray intensity.
- Use sunscreen. Sun protection with broad spectrum sunblock that works against UVA rays is important.
- Apply generous amounts of sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Pay special attention to your face, nose, ears, and shoulders.
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure so that it has time to penetrate the skin. Re-apply after swimming and every 2 hours while you are outdoors.
- Wear a sun hat.
- Wear sunglasses with UV protection.
- Use a lip balm with sunscreen.
Published Date: June 07, 2023
Published By: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
Ling TC. Polymorphic light eruption. In: Lebwohl MG, Heymann WR, Coulson IH, Murrell DF, eds. Treatment of Skin Disease: Comprehensive Therapeutic Strategies. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 196.
Patterson JW. Reactions to physical agents. In: Patterson JW, ed. Weedon's Skin Pathology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Limited; 2021:chap 22.