dupixent and sun exposure

Vertimes 2025

2 min read

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15-10-2024

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Dupixent and Sun Exposure: What You Need to Know

Dupixent (dupilumab) is a revolutionary medication used to treat a variety of inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema, asthma, and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis. While it offers significant relief for many patients, a common question arises: how does Dupixent interact with sun exposure?

Understanding the Potential Risks

While there is no direct evidence suggesting that Dupixent itself increases sun sensitivity, it's important to be aware of potential indirect factors that could affect your skin's reaction to the sun:

• Skin Conditions Treated by Dupixent: Many conditions treated with Dupixent, such as eczema, already involve compromised skin barriers. This can make the skin more susceptible to sun damage, even without Dupixent.
• Topical Medications: Some individuals use topical corticosteroids alongside Dupixent for managing their skin conditions. These corticosteroids can temporarily thin the skin, making it more vulnerable to sunburns.

Sun Protection is Key

Whether you're taking Dupixent or not, protecting your skin from the sun is always essential. Here's what you can do:

• Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting, light-colored clothing that covers most of your body.
• Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Re-apply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Seek Shade: Limit your time in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm).
• Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat and Sunglasses: These accessories protect your face, head, and eyes from harmful UV rays.

Consulting Your Doctor

It's always best to consult with your doctor or dermatologist for personalized advice about sun protection, particularly if you are taking Dupixent. They can provide guidance based on your specific medical history, skin type, and medication regimen.

Additional Tips:

• Be Mindful of Medications: Certain medications can increase your sensitivity to the sun. Discuss any potential interactions with your doctor.
• Avoid Tanning Beds and Sunlamps: These devices emit UV radiation, increasing your risk of skin cancer.
• Monitor Your Skin: Regularly check your skin for any changes, like new moles, sores, or spots that are changing in size, shape, or color.

Conclusion:

While Dupixent itself doesn't appear to increase sun sensitivity, it's crucial to prioritize sun protection due to the nature of the skin conditions it treats and the potential use of topical medications. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the benefits of Dupixent while keeping your skin healthy and safe from the sun's harmful rays.

References

• Dupixent (dupilumab) [Prescribing Information]. (2023). Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Sanofi. [Accessed 2023-11-07]
• The Role of Topical Corticosteroids in the Management of Atopic Dermatitis. [Accessed 2023-11-07]