WARNING
PHYTOPHOTODERMATITIS … THE WEIRD SUN REACTION THAT COULD PUT A DAMPER ON YOUR SUMMER VACATION.
Did you know that when you expose your skin to lime and sunlight it can have a severe chemical reaction?
When sunlight is exposed to lime juice or other citrus agents and it cause a chemical reaction similar to a burn which can result in a rash that may result in blistering. The rash will heal but often leads to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (brown patches) which can last up to several months. A common scenario are patterns of ‘streak marks’ from juice dripping downward, handprints from contact, or streaks from brushing against plants.
Phytophotodermatitis is caused by plants we commonly come into contact with and may be misdiagnosed as allergic contact dermatitis, cellulitis, and fungal skin infections.
It is important to seek treatment from a health care professional to help alleviate the discomfort and reduce the chance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
So remember, when enjoying your margarita on the beach, clean lime juice off your skin as soon as possible to avoid this summer mishap!