Symptoms ofatopic dermatitis(eczema) often improve with exposure to sunlight.
However, for some people, sun exposure may worsenor in rare cases even triggerthe skin condition.
Vitamin D
Sun exposure increases the production of vitamin D in the body.
Libertad Leal Photography / Moment / Getty Images
By doing so, it may indirectly modulate immune function in theoutermost layer of the skin(epidermis).
Prevention
Sunlight exposure may play an important role in the prevention of skin conditions like eczema.
Phototherapy is typically recommended when the first-line treatments for eczema (such astopical steroids) fail to provide relief.
Summary
Sun exposure is one of many treatment options for eczema.
Some people find it helps decrease their symptoms of the condition.
But even though it’s natural, that doesn’t mean sun exposure is completely safe.
Be sure to take protective measuressuch as using sunscreento prevent skin damage.
Speak with your healthcare provider before trying this or any other therapy option.
Nowicka D, Grywalska E.The role of immune defects and colonization in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis.
Analytical Cellular Pathology (Amsterdam).2018.
Yu, Cunjing et al.Nitric oxide induces human CLA+CD25_Foxp3+ regulatory T cells with skin-homing potential.
Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Matsushima, Yoshiaki et al.Vitamin D is no substitute for the sun.
Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Hoel DG, Berwick M, de Gruijl FR, Holick MF.The risks and benefits of sun exposure.Dermato-Endocrinology.
Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Practice Safe Sun.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Eczema Treatment: Phototherapy.
2015;66 Suppl 1:8-16. doi:10.1159/000370220
Palmer DJ.Vitamin D and the development of atopic eczema.J Clin Med.