What is Phytodermatitis?
Phytophotodermatitis (PPD) is a cutaneous phototoxic inflammatory eruption resulting from contact with light-sensitizing botanical substances, also known as furanocoumarins, and long-wave ultraviolet A (UV-A, 320-380 nm) radiation.
How to treat phytophotodermatitis?
Phytophotodermatitis is primarily treated with home care. Moderate blistering may be soothed with cool washcloths. Topical ointments, such as steroids, can help the initial blisters and inflammation in more severe outbreaks. In turn, these also help alleviate itchiness.
What causes margarita dermatitis?
Margarita Dermatitis, or Phytophotodermatitis, is a phototoxic inflammatory reaction caused by UVA light exposure to skin that has come into contact with certain plants. Many citrus fruits, wild vegtables, herbs and flowers can cause this painful condition.
What foods can cause sun sensitivity?
Foods: Consuming celery, dill, fennel, figs, lime, parsley and wild carrots can increase sun sensitivity. Perfumes and essential oils: Applying scents like bergamot, bitter orange, lavender, lemon verbena, musk, rosemary or sandalwood can make your skin more reactive to the sun.
How do I get rid of photosensitivity rash?
To treat chemical photosensitivity reactions, corticosteroids are applied to the skin and the substance that is causing the reaction is avoided. Solar urticaria can be difficult to treat, but doctors may try histamine (H1) blockers (antihistamines), corticosteroids, or sunscreens.
What foods cause phytophotodermatitis?
The chemicals that cause phytophotodermatitis are found most commonly in wild parsnip, wild dill, wild parsley, buttercups and citrus fruits, especially limes.
How long does phytophotodermatitis last?
Once the blisters begin to heal, usually after 7–14 days , the skin may show signs of darkening, which is known as hyperpigmentation. This stage of phytophotodermatitis, also known as post-inflammatory pigmentation, may last for many weeks or months.
How do you get rid of margarita dermatitis?
“The skin must be exposed to both the plant compound and the sun.” Treatment is similar to treating a poison ivy rash. Cool compresses and hydrocortisone creams along with oral antihistamines are used. Severe cases could require steroid pills.
How long does lime burn last?
In 24 to 48 hours, your skin might start to feel tingly and tender and begin to redden. Within another day or two, painful blisters will develop in the affected areas. Once the blisters heal, they typically leave behind brown hyperpigmentation in the affected areas of the skin.
What deficiency causes sun sensitivity?
If you do not get enough of some nutrients, your skin can become sensitive to sunlight. Pellagra, for example, is caused by a niacin deficiency and leads to photosensitivity. Other nutrients, particularly antioxidants and flavonoids, may help protect skin against sun damage in healthy people.
What does photosensitivity rash look like?
Polymorphous light eruption, also known as polymorphic light eruption, is a rash caused by sun exposure in people who have developed sensitivity to sunlight. The rash usually appears as red, tiny bumps or slightly raised patches of skin.
What are the symptoms of phytophotodermatitis on the skin?
The symptoms of phytophotodermatitis vary based on the cycle of the reaction. At first, you may experience blister-like patches across the skin. These are often itchy and irregularly shaped. These patches appear wherever your skin is exposed to the plant substance. The most commonly affected areas are the:
What are the signs and symptoms of photodermatitis?
The main symptom of photodermatitis is the red itchy rash found on the skin, which looks like blisters, with peeling of the skin. These can be seen on areas where topical or chemical creams are being applied. The general signs and symptoms are as follows: Itchy, scaly, blisters, or raised areas.
Is it possible to get phytophotodermatitis from contact with plants?
In this condition, contact with certain plant chemicals can cause skin inflammation when exposed to sunlight. It’s less common than other types of contact dermatitis. The symptoms of phytophotodermatitis can be worrisome, but the condition usually goes away on its own over time. More serious cases may be treated by a dermatologist.
How long does it take for phytophotodermatitis to clear up?
Phytophotodermatitis isn’t a serious condition, but its effects can last for several weeks or even months. This condition doesn’t require medical treatment except for cases in which your symptoms are severe. Over time, phytophotodermatitis clears up on its own.