Wear sunscreen every day, even if you don’t have plans to go outside. Choose a broad-spectrum formula — the Lupus Foundation of America recommends SPF 70 or higher, though SPF 30 or higher is the general minimum most sources agree on. Cover all exposed skin.

Reapply sunscreen about every two hours when you are outdoors, and after swimming or sweating. You may also need to reapply it indoors if you sit near sunny windows or UV-emitting lights, or if the sunscreen rubs or washes off.

Look for large sunglasses with wrap-around frames that block 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Pair them with a wide-brimmed hat or one with neck protection. These cover areas sunscreen often misses, including the face, where sun exposure can trigger a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose.

UV exposure isn’t just an outdoor problem. Fluorescent lighting can trigger symptoms in some people with highly sun-sensitive lupus. Standard household LED bulbs usually give off little or no measurable UV, so they may be a better choice.

You can also cover fluorescent or halogen bulbs with light shields or UV filters. Using low-irradiance (low light intensity) light bulbs can help cut down on everyday exposure at home or at work.

UV rays are more intense from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so scheduling outdoor plans earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can limit how much direct sun you're exposed to.

At home or in your car, use UV-blocking shades to cover the windows. Car windows offer some UV protection on their own, but added UV protection may help.

Some medications, including retinoids, ibuprofen, and certain antibiotics, can worsen photosensitivity. On the other hand, some lupus medicines, such as hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), may help reduce UV-triggered skin symptoms and flares. However, they don’t block UV rays and should not replace sunscreen, protective clothing, sunglasses, or shade.

Ask your rheumatologist how your specific medications may affect your sun sensitivity.

Avoid UV drying lamps when getting your nails done. Opt for polishes that don’t require them, or wear anti-UV gloves with sunscreen. The same caution applies to tanning beds, another artificial UV source worth avoiding.