UV Damage: How Sun Exposure Affects Skin, Eyes, and Medications

When we talk about UV damage, harm caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Also known as sun damage, it doesn’t just fade after a tan—it builds up over time, weakening skin cells, accelerating aging, and raising the risk of skin cancer. This isn’t just a summer problem. UV rays penetrate clouds and reflect off snow, water, and even concrete, meaning your skin gets hit year-round, even when you don’t feel the heat.

UV damage doesn’t stop at the surface. It can trigger or worsen conditions like phototoxicity, where certain medications react with sunlight and cause severe rashes or burns. Drugs like some antibiotics, diuretics, and even common NSAIDs can make your skin hypersensitive. If you’re on medication and notice redness, blistering, or itching after brief sun exposure, it might not be a rash—it could be a drug reaction fueled by UV damage. People with autoimmune diseases like lupus are especially vulnerable. Even eye health is at risk: long-term UV exposure contributes to cataracts and macular degeneration, and sunglasses labeled "UV400" aren’t just a fashion accessory—they’re medical protection.

Here’s what most people miss: sunscreen alone won’t fix everything. Clothing, shade, and timing matter just as much. A hat with a three-inch brim blocks more UV than most sunscreens. Seeking shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. cuts exposure by up to 75%. And if you’re on long-term steroids or immunosuppressants, your skin’s natural defenses are already down—sun protection isn’t optional, it’s part of your treatment plan. You don’t need to avoid the sun entirely, but you do need to understand how your body, your meds, and the sun interact. Below, you’ll find real-world guides on how to protect your skin, manage drug reactions, and avoid hidden risks that most doctors don’t take time to explain.