Lime Juice Burn

I think I have discovered a diagnosis for my hands. On that Friday before they started to turn red, I squeezed about 8 limes for a lime dressing I was making. When Santiago got home from work we all went outside and worked on the backyard. Last night Santiago was researching lime juice to see if that could have caused a burn and he discovered that it could.

Phytophotodermatitis is the correct term to what I believe happened to me. Phytophotodermatitis is a chemical reaction which makes skin hypersensitive to sunlight. It is caused by contact with the photosensitizing compounds found naturally in some plants and vegetables like parsnips and citrus fruits, and then having exposure to the sun. It usually results in hyperpigmentation of the skin that often appears like a bruise. This may be accompanied by blisters or burning. The reaction typically begins within 24 hours of exposure and peaks at 48–72 hours after the exposure. Unfortunately the hyperpigmentation can last weeks to months. Eventually, the affected sites may desquamate and develop permanent hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. However, scarring is rare.

After researching this condition I am almost certain that it was the cause. An allergic reaction didn't seem right. I probably should've gone to see a dermatologist. I do think my hands are healing. Scabs formed where the blisters were, and now my hands are peeling . I hope that I will recover soon.