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Photosensitivity,an abnormal skin reaction to sunlight or UV exposure,can greatly impact your daily life. If you’re sensitive to the sun due to medications or a medical condition, you may need a formal medical note to request accommodations. This guide explains how and where to get a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity. Read on for everything you need to know.
Interested in getting a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity online? Connect with a licensed provider to get a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity if medically appropriate.
Need a doctor’s note without going to a clinic?
Klarity Health connects you with licensed providers who can determine if a sick note is medically appropriate for school, work, or other needs.
Do I really need a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity?
In many settings in the United States, having formal documentation can mean the difference between receiving accommodations or not. A dermatologist’s note is essential to request accommodations in the workplace, at school, or for housing. You may need documentation if you:
- Take medications known to increase sun sensitivity, such as antibiotics ( tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, sulfonamides), NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide), or retinoids.
- Have conditions like lupus, porphyria, chronic actinic dermatitis, xeroderma pigmentosum, or polymorphic light eruption (PMLE).
- Experience symptoms like sunburn, hives, blisters, or discoloration after brief sun exposure.
A dermatologist’s note can help you request:
- Workplace adjustments (like UV-filtered lighting or flexible scheduling)
- School accommodations (such as modified outdoor activities)
- Vehicle window tint exemptions
- Housing modifications (like UV-blocking window film or curtains)
Without proper documentation, these requests may not qualify under The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Section 504 protections.
Can you get a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity online?
Yes, you can get a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity through teledermatology. Online,you can consult a U.S.-licensed dermatologist, share your symptoms and photos, and receive a dermatologist’s note. Online dermatology services are widely accepted for evaluating conditions such as PMLE and drug-induced photosensitivity, and they provide documentation similar to in-person visits.
How to get a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity offline
- Identify the need – Watch for signs of sun sensitivity.
- Document your symptoms – Keep a symptom log and take clear, dated photos.
- List your medications – Include any known to cause photosensitivity.
- Schedule a dermatologist visit – Choose a provider experienced in diagnosing sun-related conditions.
- Attend your consultation – Share your history and symptoms. Most diagnoses are based on clinical evaluation, with additional tests (such as phototesting) used only in complex cases.
- Request the note – Make sure your note includes diagnosis, the ICD-10 code, functional limits, accommodation recommendations, and the provider’s credentials.
- Submit the note – Provide the note to your employer, school, housing provider, or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
- Follow up – Ask for updates or clarifications if your situation changes.
How to get a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity online
- Choose a reputable teledermatology service
Look for platforms that support documentation, have licensed U.S. dermatologists, and provide follow-up care. - Prepare your symptoms summary
Be prepared to give your doctor your symptoms log, photos, and a list of all your medications and supplements.
- Undergo testing (if needed)
Some providers recommend phototesting, lab work, or even light patch tests, although many rely on clinical history, photos, or a visual examination. . - Request a focused medical note
When prompted or during the consultation, ask specifically: “Can you provide a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity detailing diagnosis, restrictions, and needed accommodations?” - Receive and review the note
Make sure your note has all the essential elements, such as diagnosis, accommodations, and the provider’s credentials. - Submit the note where needed
Provide it to your employer, school nurse, landlord, or DMV. Keep a copy for your records.
Top online platforms to get a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity
1. Klarity Health
Klarity Health offers virtual visits with board-certified U.S. dermatologists who can assess photosensitivity symptoms. Providers on Klarity are experienced with issuing formal medical notes, including diagnoses, and recommended accommodations suitable for work, school, or medical exemptions.
2. First Derm
A pioneer in teledermatology, First Derm lets users send photos and symptom descriptions via mobile or web. Dermatologists review the case & typically provide a medical report that can include a formal note suitable for accommodations.
3. DermatologistOnCall (Teladoc Network)
Part of the Teladoc group, this platform offers video-based dermatology consultations with U.S.-licensed dermatologists who can diagnose conditions such as photosensitivity and provide detailed medical notes compatible with ADA or school documentation.
4. Apostrophe (formerly ApostropheRx)
Apostrophe provides comprehensive virtual skin care, including follow-up. Their board-certified dermatologists can diagnose and prescribe treatments, and they’re equipped to issue formal notes detailing photosensitivity and needed accommodations.
5. Aetna One-on-One Dermatology
Available to Aetna members, this service includes teledermatology visits with note issuance as part of the care plan. Consultations typically result in an official document outlining diagnosis, limitations, and suggested accommodations.
What to include in a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity
A valid dermatologist’s note should include:
- Diagnosis and ICD-10 code
An ICD-10 code is a unique code used for medical diagnoses, it helps providers clearly identify a patient’s condition. For example,L56.0 (polymorphic light eruption), L56.1 (drug-induced photosensitivity) - Clinical summary
A of your symptoms, triggers, and how frequently they occur. - Functional limitations
Any guidelines that apply to your condition, such as “Avoid direct sunlight between 10 AM–3 PM,” or “Use SPF 50+ daily” - Recommended accommodations
Any accommodations for work, school, or housing that are necessary to reduce or prevent sun exposure, like UV-protected work areas, flexible schedules, tinted vehicle windows, and modified activities. - Validity period
How long your note is valid for, which is typically 6–12 months - Provider information
The name, credentials, date, and contact info of the licensed health provider
Getting a dermatologist’s note can be quick and convenient
If you experience skin reactions triggered by sun exposure, a dermatologist’s note can help you access the necessary protections for daily life. . Whether you choose an in-person visit or a telehealth option, proper documentation can support accommodations in your workplace, school, vehicle, or home.
Need a dermatologist’s note for photosensitivity?
Don’t wait—secure formal documentation now to access essential accommodations for school, work, vehicle tint, or housing. Visit Klarity Health to connect with a board-certified U.S. dermatologist who can assess your sun sensitivity, review your symptoms and treatment, and issue a fully detailed doctor’s note online for photosensitivity, complete with ICD‑10 codes and recommended accommodations.
Need a note for school or work?
Request a virtual consult with our providers to assess your symptoms. If medically appropriate, you’ll receive a legitimate doctor’s note.
FAQs about getting a dermatologist’s note
*Appointments are generally available within 24 hours. Free initial consultations are available only with select providers. Prescriptions, particularly for controlled substances, may require an in-person evaluation depending on the state of residence and current federal regulations.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. Providers on Klarity Health are independent practitioners with clinical autonomy. Nothing in this article is intended to diagnose or treat any condition, including guaranteeing prescription medication of any kind or dosage. Not all providers on Klarity Health prescribe all medications, particularly medications that are controlled substances.
If you’re having a mental health crisis or experiencing a psychiatric emergency, it’s crucial to seek immediate help from a mental healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. You can also call your local emergency services, visit your nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, by calling or texting 988 or dialing the Lifeline’s previous phone number, 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) in the U.S.
