Definition

Causing the skin to become more sensitive to light, especially sunlight, which can lead to damage like sunburn or blisters.

Example

Some medications can be phototoxic, making your skin more vulnerable to sunburn.

Conversation

I just found out that some skincare products can be phototoxic if used in sunlight.

Really? I had no idea that could happen.

Yeah, it means they can make your skin more sensitive to light.

That sounds risky; I should check my products before going out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phototoxic → It is formed from "photo-" (from Greek "phōs", meaning light) and "toxic" (from Greek "toxikon", meaning poison). The word describes something that is poisonous when exposed to light.

Memory Tip

Think of 'light' ('photo-') that can make something 'poisonous' ('toxic') — that's why phototoxic refers to substances that become harmful when in contact with light.

Visually Confused Words