Doctor Warns of 'Painful' Reason You Should Never Eat These Fruits Outside

Eating certain fruits outside can damage your skin, an expert has warned.

Dr. Vanita Rattan is a cosmetic formulator and social media star who specializes in hyperpigmentation and skin of color. In a video, posted on December 19, Rattan warned her followers about eating citrus fruits and pineapples in the sun.

"Furocoumarins found in a lot of citrus fruits are organic compounds and when exposed to UVA light, a reaction can occur," Rattan told Newsweek. "This is extremely painful and occurs 24 to 48 hours later. Skin goes red, may blister and flake."

The condition is called phytophotodermatitis, which is basically inflammation of the skin produced by plant-derived chemicals (phyto-) and light (photo-). And these chemicals can be found in high concentrations in citrus fruits, various herbs (like parsley), carrots, celery and figs.

Furocoumarins can also produce excess melanin in skin cells. "This is a particular problem for skin of color as we then hyperpigment," Rattan said.

Hyperpigmentation occurs when some areas of the skin become darker than others. It can result from a variety of conditions and environmental factors, including hormonal changes, acne, medication, sun damage and nutrient deficiencies.

Rattan's video has received hundreds of thousands of views on TikTok and Instagram, with dozens of users commenting to share their experiences with this condition.

"I had a horrible case of photodermatitis that left dark skin patches for weeks, from citrus essential oils in a face cream I wore at a beach," said one user.

"I was today years old when I learned that something like this, is even a thing!" said another.

To treat phytophotodermatitis, it is important to allow the blisters to heal. "Once inflammation reduces use Tyrosinase Inhibitors," Rattan said.

Tyrosinase inhibitors work by blocking the enzyme that our skin uses to make melanin and are regularly used to treat hyperpigmentation. "Start cheap with 2 percent alpha arbutin," Rattan said.

It is also important to see a doctor or dermatologist if the problem persists.

To avoid hyperpigmentation in the first place, it is important to wear sunscreen everyday, no matter your skin tone, and to avoid too much direct sun exposure. And, of course, avoid eating citrus fruits in the sun.

Is there a health issue that's worrying you? Do you have a question about phytophotodermatitis? Let us know via health@newsweek.com. We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured on Newsweek.