Solar Purpura

Solar Purpura is a non-curable affliction that is seen in many Caucasian patients over 60. This disorder is cause by ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation to the areas involved over many decades. The UVA rays penetrate to the deeper skin regions and thin the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous fat. Under these tissue planes lie small veins that are fragile and now easily torn. Without the normal skin surface and padding for protection, minor bumps, pressure, and glancing blows open these blood vessels and cause slow oozing of blood. The purpura typically resolves in several weeks leaving normal skin color.