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What Are the Causes of a Rash From Limes?

Limes are citrus fruits. When you eat limes or expose your skin to lime juice, it is possible to develop a skin rash. As with any bad reaction, you should rinse the area with water and keep an eye on it. If it doesn't go away after a few days, seek medical attention.

  1. Phytophotodermatitis

    • Handling limes and then going out into the sun can cause a condition known as "phytophotodermatitis" (See References 1 and See References 2, "DISCUSSION"). The combination of sunlight and lime juice, or the natural oils on the lime skin, can cause a skin rash. This burn can be mild or severe, and may resemble a chemical burn (See References 2, "DISCUSSION" para. 2).

    Allergies

    • Eating limes can result in an allergic reaction similar to other food allergies, usually causing the person to break out into a rash or hives (See References 3, "Clinical Experience-IgE-mediated reactions" para. 1).

    Citric Acid Intolerance

    • Some people's bodies are not able to digest the citric acid in limes. Some symptoms reported by those with a citric acid intolerance include gastrointestinal problems, diarrhea, ulcers, and skin rashes (See References 4 "Intolerance versus allergy" last paragraph and References 5, para. 5).

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