During the summer, our exposure to the sun is greater and so is the consumption of refreshing drinks. Many of these are made with ingredients that are more commonly used in summer, such as lime. But the union of sun and certain ingredients makes our skin react.
Sun reaction burns
The contact with certain leaves and plants and subsequent exposure to sun causes a inflammatory skin reaction, phytophotodermatitis. This is due to a substance that these plants have called furocoumarin.
Furocoumarin are toxins produced by plants in response to stress situations. These are found present in foods such as parsnips (closely related to carrots and parsley), celery roots, citrus plants (lemon, lime, grapefruit, bergamot) and some medicinal plants.
In addition to causing gastrointestinal problems in susceptible people, they are phototoxicsince the consumption of large amounts of these plants can cause serious skin reactions under sunlight. This reaction arises from a reaction between the plant substance and the skin cells, damaging the lining of the skin cells.
This type of burn has been baptized as ‘Margarita Burn’, like the cocktail, since the lime is one of its main ingredients and the cause of them.
Among its symptoms is skin irritation and blisters. Although they are burns that disappear over time, it is recommended enhance sun protection with the consumption of beverages that contain these ingredients and be more aware of sun exposure. Also, if you have been in contact with this plant or fruit, wash the skin as soon as possible and before two hours.
If you already have a burn, it is advisable to apply cold compresses or ice to relieve pain. Keep in mind that ice should never directly touch your skin, as it can cause further burns.
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