Some fun in the sun with a harmless fruit has resulted in a severe burn on a toddler’s chest, prompting a warning for other parents.

Children’s safety organisation Tiny Hearts Education shared images of the child’s injuries, resulting in dozens of other parents revealing their children had also fallen victim to similar burns.

“This little sweetheart was playing with a whole lime while enjoying the sunshine,” explained the organisation. “Sometime after, a rash appeared on his chest. This is phytophotodermatitis aka margarita burn.”

The post went on to explain that citrus fruits like limes, lemons and oranges contain chemicals that react with UV rays from the sun, and causing burns.

“The reaction can cause redness and blisters within 24 -48 hours of exposure. This burn is more severe than a typical sunburn and can leave long-lasting marks.”

According to The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, margarita burn the chemical that causes the reaction, furocoumarin, can also be found in mandarins, grapefruit and bergamot. The reason it’s often referred to as margarita burn because the reaction can happen when limes are squeezed into margarita drinks outside.

“Phytophotodermatitis can affect any part of the skin. Children with more sensitive skin are at a higher risk,” The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network explained.

“While phytophotodermatitis is rare, it can be serious and very painful, especially for children.”

The signs and symptoms include:

• skin inflammation
• skin redness
• skin discolouration
• a burning feeling
• pain
• itching
• blistering
• skin loss

Symptoms generally begin 24 hours after exposure to the chemical in combination with sun and peak after two to three days.

To help prevent the reaction, make sure you and your children wash their hands after eating or cutting up citrus, and keep any areas that have come in contact with citrus out of the sun.