Sun exposure has been found to be a helpful treatment option for psoriasis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, approximately 50% of people with psoriasis notice their skin clearing up after spending time in the sun.

However, with the increased risk of skin cancer and sun damage, it’s important to know how much sun exposure your skin can handle safely. In this article, we’ll explore how long you should stay in the sun to treat psoriasis.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes the skin cells to grow rapidly, resulting in scaly patches. It’s a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

While the exact causes of psoriasis remain unknown, genetics, environmental factors, and the immune system are believed to play a role.

How Does Sun Exposure Help Psoriasis?

Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun is believed to be the primary reason why sun exposure can benefit people with psoriasis. Psoriasis causes inflammation in the skin, and UV light can help suppress inflammation.

Also, the sun can slow down the rapid growth of skin cells and reduce scaling and redness.

How Much Sun Exposure is Safe?

While sun exposure can help treat psoriasis, it also comes with risks if you don’t protect your skin properly. UV rays can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin problems.

Therefore, it’s important to know how much sun exposure is safe for you.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, people should aim to get 10-15 minutes of sun exposure on their skin without sunscreen. This exposure should occur outside peak sunlight hours, which are typically between 10 am to 4 pm.

Peak hours can vary depending on the time of year and your geographical location. After the initial 10-15 minutes, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If you’re going to be out for an extended period, re-apply sunscreen every two hours.

Factors that Affect Sun Exposure

Several factors can affect how much sun exposure your skin can handle safely:.

: Skin Type

People with fair skin are more susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer than people with darker complexions. Fair-skinned individuals may need to be more cautious when it comes to sun exposure.

: Geographical Location

The closer you are to the equator, the stronger the sun will be. Therefore, people living in tropical or subtropical regions need to be more careful when it comes to sun exposure.

: Time of Day and Year

The intensity of the sun’s rays can vary depending on the time of day and year. During peak sunlight hours, the sun’s rays are stronger and more damaging.

Tips for Safe Sun Exposure

If you’re going to spend time in the sun to help treat your psoriasis, here are some tips to keep you safe:.

: Wear Protective Clothing

Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats, can help shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

: Apply Sunscreen

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply it to all exposed areas of your skin before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

: Avoid Tanning Beds

Tanning beds are not a safe alternative to natural sunlight. They can emit harmful UVA and UVB rays that can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer.

: Consult with a Doctor

If you’re not sure how much sun exposure is safe for you, speak with a doctor or dermatologist. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your skin type and medical history.

Conclusion

Sun exposure can be a helpful treatment option for psoriasis, but it’s important to handle it safely. People should aim to get 10-15 minutes of sun exposure without sunscreen, followed by sunscreen application.

If you’re uncertain about sun exposure, consult with a doctor or dermatologist. By following these tips, you can safely enjoy the benefits of sun exposure while treating your psoriasis.