An American woman described a skin reaction she experienced after being exposed to a tick in the sun
Brooklyn-based designer Hayley Peacock described a severe skin reaction she experienced after preparing fresh lime juice for cocktails and being out in the bright sun. The juice got on her hands and forearms, and she later developed severe redness, dark pigmentation, and painful blisters on her skin.
According to NDTV World, citing the New York Post, after squeezing the limes, the woman simply rinsed her hands under water without washing her skin with soap right away. She then remained in the sun and spent time by the pool. According to Peacock, the reaction appeared within 24–48 hours, and the blisters resembled severe second-degree burns.
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This condition is colloquially known as a “margarita burn.” Its medical name is phytophotodermatitis. The reaction occurs when furocoumarins—organic compounds found, in particular, in limes, lemons, celery, figs, and some wildflowers—come into contact with the skin and interact with the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
As explained in the source, this reaction can damage skin cells, causing inflammation, a burning sensation, and persistent dark spots or scars that can last for months. Dermatologist Melissa Piliang noted in a comment to the Cleveland Clinic that she often sees phytophotodermatitis after barbecues on sunny days, when people are preparing or drinking beverages containing lime.
