Polymorphous Light EruptionSymptoms, Doctors, Treatments, Advances & More
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 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)
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.
Alexandra Wackernagel-Gruber practices practicing medicine in Graz, Austria. Ms. Wackernagel-Gruber is rated as an Elite expert by MediFind in the treatment of Polymorphous Light Eruption. She is also highly rated in 6 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Polymorphous Light Eruption, Pityriasis Lichenoides, Pityriasis Lichenoides Chronica, and Pityriasis Lichenoides Et Varioliformis Acuta.
Vijaykumar Patra practices practicing medicine in Graz, Austria. Patra is rated as an Elite expert by MediFind in the treatment of Polymorphous Light Eruption. They are also highly rated in 2 other conditions, according to our data. Their clinical expertise encompasses Polymorphous Light Eruption, Atopic Dermatitis, Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye), and Psoriasis.
I believe in treating each patient as if they were my family, with high-quality and well-researched care. Each patient is a unique individual that deserves personalized care, whether it is treating acne, performing cosmetic procedures, to removing skin cancer. I absolutely love getting to know my patients and aim to create a comfortable environment. We look forward to helping you look and feel great about your skin!. Dr. Tan is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Polymorphous Light Eruption. She is also highly rated in 4 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Neurocutaneous Melanosis, Giant Congenital Melanocytic Nevus, Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma Syndrome, and Giant Congenital Nevus. Dr. Tan is board certified in Dermatology.
Many people become less sensitive to sunlight over time.
Contact 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, 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.
Published Date: June 03, 2025
Published 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.
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.