Why Your Skin Reacts to Citrus and Sun Exposure

February 26, 2025

A chemical found on the surface of citrus fruits can cause a sunburn and blistering when it gets on your skin and you’re exposed to sunlight. Known as a “margarita burn,” because the combination of limes and sunshine is a common cause, phytophotodermatitis can have a variety of triggers.

“We see it mostly in the summer or when people go on vacation,” says University Hospitals dermatologist Kord Honda, MD. “Exposure to the chemical (furocoumarins) increases the potency of sun rays, so essentially you get a sunburn on that area.”

What Causes Phytophotodermatitis?

Plants that can cause phytophotodermatitis include:

Limes (the most common trigger) and other citrus fruits like oranges and lemons
Celery
Wild dill
Wild parsnips
Carrots
Buttercups
Meadow grass
Hogweed
Figs

How Much Exposure Is Needed to Trigger Symptoms?

“In many cases, not a lot of exposure is needed,” says Dr. Honda. “It varies depending on the person, the skin type and how much of the chemical they get on them.”

Phytophotodermatitis is often mistaken for poison ivy. It commonly occurs in forestry and agriculture workers, gardeners, hikers and others who frequent wooded areas or places where the plants grow. Bartenders who handle a lot of citrus fruits are also at risk.

“Often it affects the hands or legs. People walking around in brush can come in contact with it,” says Dr. Honda. Bergamot oil, extracted from the bergamot orange rind and often used in personal care products, can also trigger the inflammatory reaction.

Cases typically resolve on their own and don’t require medical care. Topical medications can help relieve symptoms. Some patients may develop hyperpigmentation, or dark spots on the skin. In some cases, the dark spots are permanent.

“Usually, there’s not much you need to do. You want to make sure you don’t pop a blister and risk a secondary infection,” says Dr. Honda. “ If you have a significant reaction, you might consider high doses of vitamin D. If your skin is visibly darkened, you want to avoid sun exposure because that can make it worse.”

Preventing Phytophotodermatitis

Avoid eating or drinking too much citrus outdoors if you are in the sun.
Wash with soap and water after coming into contact with plants and fruits that can cause phytophotodermatitis.
Gardening gloves, wearing pants and long sleeves will help keep the plant chemical off your skin.

“Usually when people have their first experience and realize it’s phytophotodermatitis and not poison ivy, they’re good about avoiding triggers in the future,” Dr Honda says. “Just be aware of what you come in contact with outside.”