6 reactions to lemon burn and first care to watch out for

Citrus fruits can cause stains if the area in contact with the furrow is exposed to the sun without adequate protection. The best known case is lemon burn, which mainly affects hands and faces. To better understand what this burn is, we talked to dermatologist Nandara Paiva (RQE30902) to answer some questions about it.

Why does lemon burn the skin?

First of all, it is necessary to explain that phytophotodermatosis, or lemon burn, is not actually a burn. According to Nandara, “it is an allergic reaction resulting from the combination of a plant that sensitizes the skin after contact with solar radiation”.

This is because some plants and fruits like lemon have furocoumarins, a photoactive compound that causes allergies. Contact can occur in simple moments, such as having a drink or seasoning food. According to Nandara, “the allergy can cause redness, edema (swelling), blisters, pain in the affected area, dark spots and even infection”.

6 lemon burn reactions to watch out for

You need to be aware of possible signs that lemon burn has occurred. See some of them:

• Redness
• Swelling
• bubbles
• Itch
• pains
• Infection

It is important to remember that in an allergic process, not all these symptoms may appear. The professional explains that the first sign is the reddish lesions, which can form blisters. “Symptoms start within 2 days of exposure,” she points out.

What to do if I burn myself with lemon?

According to the dermatologist, when the allergic process occurs, the patient may have to apply the first care at home. See what they are:

1. Wash your hands

First, the affected area should be cleaned with clean water and soap. However, there are alternatives such as cold saline or chamomile tea to soothe the skin. The choice is up to the patient.

2. Apply a regenerating moisturizer

Next, you need to moisturize your skin. The professional’s indication is that the patient prefers products that contain zinc, glycerin and lanolin, or even almond oil. “They all help in the regeneration of the skin”, she says.

3. Protect the region from the Sun

Even if it’s not a real burn, the skin is sensitive and needs the same attention and care. Nandara indica avoids sun exposure with “physical barrier and sunscreen”.

4. Apply sunscreen

“A protection factor above 30 is enough because it represents the protection time. All filters have the same protection capacity if applied in the correct amount”, explains the professional.

5. See a doctor

According to the doctor, it is necessary to seek help from a professional if the symptoms worsen. Only he can assess the situation and indicate the best treatment.

How to treat old stains

Nadara Paiva explains that blemishes caused by lemon burns can take a long time to disappear. “Spots can last from weeks to months, depending on sun protection and skin hydration,” she says.

She recalls that such a process is an allergic reaction, “which must be controlled before starting treatment with whitening agents”. To get rid of dark spots, the dermatologist recommends some treatments such as laser, percutaneous microinfusion of medication and peeling.

Home use bleaches based on kojic acid, phytic acid and hydroquinone are also indicated by her. Even rosehip oil is effective.

Top questions about lemon burn

Is a lemon burn a 1st, 2nd or 3rd burn?

Nandara Paiva (NP): It is important to remember that a lemon burn is an allergic reaction, not a burn. The spots are the result of an inflammatory process.

Can untreated dark spots cause skin cancer in the future?

NP: Dark spots do not represent a greater possibility of skin cancer because cancer is the result of mutation in the DNA of skin cells.

When should I see a doctor?

NP: it is indicated to seek a doctor if there is extensive injury, with blistering, pain that is not resolved with analgesics and signs of infection.

Burns are common on the hands and around the mouth. But can lips be burned? How to handle this case?

NP: you should optimize hydration and protect from the sun with screens and sunscreen.

You said that the allergic process can cause infection. Why does it happen and how to identify it?

NP: It’s not the allergy that causes the infection. In an allergic condition, itching can open a door for skin bacteria. This can also happen to the blister when it bursts and leaves the inside exposed. This is what favors skin infection.

Interested in the subject? you might like other content on daily skin care too, so check out our hydration tips or learn more about peeling.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.