Why citrus causes rashes when exposed to the sun

Did your mom ever tell you not to eat an orange or lemon if the day was bright with sunshine? Well, it wasn’t just because she wanted to keep you from eating. Here I tell you a little bit more about it. 

The phenomenon of citrus fruits causing rashes when exposed to the sun is known as phytophotodermatitis. It occurs when certain compounds present in citrus fruits, such as limes, lemons, or oranges, come into contact with the skin and are then exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun.

Citrus fruits contain chemicals called psoralens and furocoumarins, which are photosensitizing agents. These compounds have the ability to react with UV light, leading to a skin reaction known as phototoxicity. When the skin comes into contact with citrus juice or the peel of these fruits and is subsequently exposed to sunlight or other sources of UV radiation, a phototoxic reaction can occur.

The reaction typically manifests as a rash or a sunburn-like skin irritation. It may appear as redness, swelling, blisters, or even dark pigmentation on the affected areas. The severity of the reaction can vary from mild to more severe, depending on factors such as the concentration of the photosensitizing compounds, the amount of citrus juice or peel involved, and the individual's sensitivity to UV light.

It's important to note that not everyone experiences phytophotodermatitis from citrus fruits, and some individuals may be more susceptible than others. Taking preventive measures such as washing the skin thoroughly after handling citrus fruits and avoiding sun exposure on the treated areas can help minimize the risk of developing a rash.

So, try not to eat a citrus fruit and then go under the sun. If you do, and you develop a rash or skin irritation after coming into contact with citrus fruits and sunlight, it is advisable to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.