Atopic dermatitis and the sun – does the sun help, or does it make this condition worse? The fact is that the sun helps many skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and many others. Natural sunlight (as well as UVB lamps) has ultraviolet B rays in it. These rays are very beneficial to the people with atopic dermatitis, either if the rays originate from the sun or from a UVB lamp.

An important note here is that people with this atopic condition may be more prone to sunburns, especially if you are using Elidel, Protopic, or hormonal steroids. If you use these medications, it does not mean that you cannot reap the benefits of the ultraviolet B light; it simply means that you should be more cautious.

Atopic dermatitis and the sun – how does the sun help? The UVB light helps the skin to start producing vitamin D, which increases a special skin protein – Cathelicidin, in the skin of the atopic dermatitis patients. This protein is known to be able to protect the skin from bacteria, viruses and fungi. People with atopic eczema are known to have less of this vital protein in their skin. Lesser protection often results in the accumulation of bacteria, fungi and viruses on the skin, worsening the overall course of atopic dermatitis.

There also are oral supplements that help to increase the production of Cathelicidin protein in the skin. However, it’s better to check with your doctor, and it’s probably better to go with natural sun and UVB lamps than with oral vitamin D supplements.

Furthermore, note that UVB tanning beds are very different than the regular tanning salons which use UVA rays in their lamps. UVA is the ray that makes our skin become brown, but it does not do much for the vitamin D production by the body.

Moreover, you should be especially careful if the patient is a child. If you are looking into trying UVB treatments (whether natural sunlight or special medical UVB tanning beds) for a child, you need to first consult with your doctor. It’s important that the doctor approves your choice, as well as recommends an appropriate amount of time for the treatment, etc.

Further, note that if you are going to try the treatment with the ultraviolet B, you will need to stick to the prescribed regimen and keep clear from other sources in order to avoid overexposure. For example, if it’s a lamp with the UVB light, you will have to avoid the sun (wear protective clothing, use sunscreens, etc.), and vice versa.

Atopic dermatitis and the sun – the interrelation between the two is very positive, however, be cautious and do consult with your doctor before starting any UVB treatment.

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