What is phototoxicity?

Phototoxicity refers to an adverse reaction that occurs when certain medications (either injected, taken orally, or applied topically) make the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light. When an individual is exposed to UV rays after taking these photosensitizing drugs, it can lead to localized damage to the skin.

This reaction can manifest as symptoms such as redness, rash, or even blistering in the areas exposed to sunlight, demonstrating how specific pharmacological agents can interact with UV exposure to cause harmful effects. Medications that could lead to phototoxicity include certain antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and some herbal supplements.

The other options highlight different skin-related conditions, such as skin damage from excessive tanning, allergic reactions to UV rays, or misuse of tanning beds. However, these do not accurately describe phototoxicity, which specifically involves the interaction of medication with UV light leading to skin reactivity rather than a general adverse effect of tanning or UV exposure.