A Practical Guide to Photosensitivity Disorders and Photoprotection for GPs

Synopsis

Photosensitivity disorders encompass a broad and often under-recognised group of conditions in which sunlight triggers or exacerbates cutaneous disease. This session provides a practical, clinically focused overview aimed at supporting general practitioners in the recognition, assessment, and initial management of photosensitive skin disorders.

Using real-world clinical scenarios, the talk highlights common presentations such as polymorphic light eruption, chronic actinic dermatitis, solar urticaria, and drug-induced photosensitivity, alongside rarer but important paediatric conditions. Key diagnostic challenges and common pitfalls—both under- and over- diagnosis—are explored, with emphasis on history-taking, examination, and recognising patterns of sun exposure.

An overview of photodermatology investigations, including monochromator testing, provocation testing, and photopatch testing, is provided in accessible, non-technical terms. Practical guidance is given on photoprotection strategies, appropriate use of sunscreens, and indications for referral to specialist services.

The session aims to improve diagnostic confidence, promote early recognition of significant disease, and support safe, evidence-based management of photosensitivity in primary care.

Published: Jun 04, 2026

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

Differentiate the major categories of photosensitivity disorders and recognize their characteristic clinical presentations.
Identify key clinical clues suggestive of chronic actinic dermatitis, solar urticaria, drug-induced photosensitivity, and other important photodermatoses.

Apply practical management strategies including photoprotection measures, pharmacological treatments, and referral pathways for specialist photodermatology assessment.

Interpret the principles of UV radiation, sunscreen efficacy, and photoprotection to provide evidence-based patient counseling.

Authors

Dr Jean Ayer

Dr Jean Ayer is a consultant dermatologist with a specialist interest in photodermatology and photoageing.
She works within the Photobiology Unit at Salford Royal Foundation Trust and practices general dermatology at Mid Cheshire Foundation Trust and the Alexandra Hospital, Cheadle, UK. She is also an Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer at the University of Manchester. Her clinical and research work focuses on the diagnosis and management of photosensitivity disorders, photoprotection, photoageing, and rare photodermatoses. Dr Ayer has extensive experience in the investigation of complex photosensitivity conditions using advanced photobiological testing and contributes actively to research and education in photodermatology.