Margarita Burn: What It Is and How to Avoid It

Dermatologists explain the causes, symptoms, and prevention of this common summertime skin condition.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 12:12am

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Margarita burn, also known as phytophotodermatitis, is a skin condition caused by exposure to certain plant compounds like those found in citrus fruits, combined with UV light exposure. While it can range from discoloration to blistering, it is generally harmless and resolves on its own. Dermatologists recommend thoroughly washing skin after handling citrus, wearing sunscreen, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure after contact with plant-based compounds to prevent margarita burn.

Why it matters

Margarita burn is a common summertime skin issue that can ruin outdoor fun and leave unsightly marks. Understanding the causes and taking preventative measures is important for anyone who enjoys cocktails, cooking, gardening, or other activities that may involve contact with citrus or other plant compounds.

The details

Phytophotodermatitis, or margarita burn, occurs when the skin comes into contact with certain plant-based compounds like those found in citrus fruits, then is exposed to UV light. The reaction can cause redness, swelling, blistering, and discoloration. While the condition is not dangerous, it can be quite uncomfortable. In addition to citrus, other culprits include carrots, celery, fennel, dill, parsnips, and even some beauty products containing bergamot oil.

  • The condition typically resolves on its own over time.

The players

Joshua Zeichner, M.D.

Associate Professor of Dermatology and Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Marisa Garshick, M.D., FAAD

A board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York and New Jersey.

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What they’re saying

“Phytophotodermatitis is a chemical burn that develops in response to a plant-based compound touching the skin in the presence of UV light.”

— Joshua Zeichner, M.D., Associate Professor of Dermatology and Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital (delish.com)

“It often happens in everyday situations. For example, someone might squeeze limes for a margarita or handle citrus while cooking outdoors and then spend time in the sun. The juice left on the skin reacts with sunlight and leads to redness, swelling, or blistering in the exact area where the fruit touched the skin.”

— Marisa Garshick, M.D., FAAD, Board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York and New Jersey (delish.com)

What’s next

To prevent margarita burn, experts recommend thoroughly washing skin after handling citrus or other plant-based compounds, wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure after contact with these substances.

The takeaway

Margarita burn, while generally harmless, is an uncomfortable and unsightly skin condition that can be easily prevented by taking a few simple precautions when enjoying summertime activities involving citrus or other plant materials.