If the skin suddenly reddens and itches after the first sunbath of the year, Mallorca acne can be behind it. In this special form of polymorphic light eruption (sun allergy), UV rays trigger the formation of small, pimple-like elevations on the skin. Women are more likely to suffer from this condition.
Mallorca Acne Symptoms
The symptoms of Mallorca acne usually begin in spring, when the first warm days invite you to sunbathe. They are most pronounced in summer and subside spontaneously in autumn. The areas of the body that are most exposed to the sun’s rays are particularly affected by the itchy, small pimples. These include:
- face
- upper arms
- Decollete
- the back
The small pimples are hard, not filled with pus and cannot be squeezed. They usually appear within a few hours or days after sun exposure, can last for several weeks, and then heal on their own with less sun exposure.
Causes of Mallorca Acne
The exact causes of Mallorca acne are not yet known, but a certain genetic component is suspected. Mallorca Acne is triggered by exposure to UV rays on the skin. There are different types of UV radiation that have different effects on the skin.
UV-A
UV-A rays have the longest wavelength of all UV rays. They are the least absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere, which is why they make up the largest proportion of UV rays on Earth. Of all UV rays, they can penetrate the deepest into the skin, where they mainly lead to a redistribution and darkening of the existing pigment cells, which does not result in increased sun protection. Mallorca Acne is mainly triggered by UV-A rays.
UV-B
UV-B rays damage the skin more than UV-A rays by damaging the DNA, but are also necessary for the formation of vitamin D3 in our skin. They also initiate the production of melanin in the skin’s pigment cells, which is similar to an endogenous sunscreen.
UV-C
UV-C rays are absorbed to a large extent by the earth’s atmosphere, which is why very little reaches the ground. They are very rich in energy and are used, for example, for sterilization.
Diagnosis of Mallorca acne
Mallorca acne has a very specific clinical picture. Since it is directly related to increased solar radiation, your doctor can diagnose Mallorca acne through a detailed discussion and examination of the typical skin changes.
When should I see a doctor for Mallorca acne?
In most cases, a visit to the doctor is not necessary for Mallorca acne. The symptoms are annoying while they are active, but since they heal without scarring , further treatment is not necessary. However, if you have severe symptoms, a visit to a family doctor or dermatologist (skin doctor) may be a good idea to consider symptomatic therapy.
How can I prevent Mallorca acne?
In order to avoid the outbreak of Mallorca acne, the use of a correct sun protection cannot be avoided.
- Use sunscreen with a high sun protection factor and proven protection against UV-A rays .
- For some people, avoiding oily sunscreens and using gel- or cream-type sunscreens helps.
- Try not to scratch the lesions , even if they itch. The small pimples heal without scars, but increased scratching can not only lead to inflammation, but also to scarring.
- Avoid strong sun exposure by wearing sun hats and covering clothing.
If you are suffering severely from your Mallorca acne, you can discuss with a doctor whether you would benefit from symptomatic therapy. The possibilities include, for example, skin peeling treatments or creams with vitamin A acid (tretinoin, adapalene).
This is how Med-Healths can help with Mallorca acne
If you’re unsure if the red bumps on your skin are due to Mallorca acne or if they’re more like an allergic reaction to a new cream, you can use Med-Healths to send a photo of the redness directly to a doctor. In an individual consultation with the doctor, he can advise you on how to proceed and, if necessary, prescribe creams to relieve the itching.

