Upper Arms Darken In Sun During Summer, Discolored And Flaky Skin Spots, Itching. Psoriasis?

Posted on Tue, 21 Aug 2012

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 Answered on

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : During the summer my upper arms get darker in the sun but then after a week or two you could see some discolored flaky skin spots that are itching. Could i have pytiriasis rosea, psoriasis or something else?

Answered by Dr. Praveen Rodrigues (17 minutes later)

Hi there. It is unlikely you would have either Pityriasis Rosae or psoriasis from your description. Both those are classically seen in the spring & winter months respectively. There could however be exceptions. It is more likely that you have some sort of photosensitive rash eg Polymorphic light eruption that can fit into your descrition. Photoprotection in the summer months prior to this eruption after due recommendation of a suitable sunscreen depending on your skin type & other factors by a qualified dermatologist will probably be all that is required. Add an emollient to the regime & an antihistamine like fexofenadine in a 180mg dose (non-sedative & safe to operate machinery or drive) & all will be well. It is easily sorted & not a major issue as you suspected. Cheers & do hope i have pointed you out in the right direction & please do accept the suggestions & would love a feedback & rating if time permits. Good nite & Good luck!
Dr Praveen Rodrigues MD Dermatologist, Cosmetologist XXXXXXX Hospital, Bangalore, India

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar