Polymorphous light eruption
Definition
Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE) is a common skin reaction in people who are sensitive to sunlight (ultraviolet light).
Alternative Names
Polymorphic light eruption; Photodermatosis; PMLE; Benign summer light eruption
Causes
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.
Symptoms
Polymorphous means taking on different forms, and eruption means rash. As the name suggests, symptoms of PMLE are rash-like and vary among 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)
Exams and Tests
Your provider will examine your skin. Usually, your provider can diagnose PMLE based on your description of the symptoms.
Tests that may be done include:
- Phototesting, during which your skin is exposed to special ultraviolet light to check if your skin develops a rash
- Removing a small amount of skin (skin biopsy) for examination to check for other diseases
Treatment
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. When used in the spring, it may help your skin become more tolerant to the sun.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Many people become less sensitive to sunlight over time.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your provider if PMLE symptoms do not respond to treatments.
Prevention
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, neck, shoulders and hands.
- 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.
References
James WD. Dermatoses resulting from physical factors. In: James WD, ed. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 14th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2026:chap 3.
Patterson JW. Reactions to physical agents. In: Patterson JW, ed. Weedon's Skin Pathology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Limited; 2025:chap 22.
Reviewed By: Ramin Fathi, MD, FAAD, Director, Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, Phoenix, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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