Definition

A harmful reaction that occurs when the skin or body is exposed to light, particularly sunlight, often resulting in skin damage or other negative effects.

Example

Some medications can cause phototoxicity, leading to severe sunburns even with minimal sun exposure.

Conversation

Have you heard about phototoxicity and how it can affect your skin?

Yeah, I read something about it; it sounds pretty serious.

Right? I didn't know that some medications could cause phototoxicity when exposed to sunlight.

It's definitely important to be aware of that, especially in the summer!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phototoxicity → It is formed from "photo-" (from Greek "phōs", meaning light) and "toxic" (from Greek "toxikon", meaning poison). The word describes a condition where light causes a toxic reaction, particularly in the skin.

Memory Tip

Think of 'light' ('photo-') causing a 'poisonous' effect ('toxic') — that's why phototoxicity refers to harmful reactions triggered by light.

Visually Confused Words