I Love Mangoes… But Some Lips Don’t
I love sweet mangoes, they are fragrant and juicy.
The sour ones? Not too much, they make me cringe from the acidity.
There are many ways to eat mango, and a popular method is to slice the mango and eat the flesh from the skin.
Sometimes I get too carried away and actually nibble on the mango skin. I suspect that I’m not the only one, because I do see patients who develop mango skin contact dermatitis on their lips after eating mangos.
Spoiler: It’s not the fruit’s acidity. And it’s definitely not about being “heaty.”
Meet Mango’s Hidden Allergen
It turns out that mango skin contains a chemical called Uroshiol.
Which is also present in poison ivy and raw cashews. [Click here if you are wondering if Malaysia has poison ivy]
For people sensitized to Urushiol, it can cause an allergic contact dermatitis reaction on the lips and mouth, starting as small, itchy blisters that progress into an eczematous reaction.
From Lips to Thighs: Transfer Allergy in Action
I have some patients that tell me: Hey Doc, look ate mango, but I did not get a rash on my lips but the rash is on my thigh!
This is what I call transfer of the contact allergen.
This person peeled a mango, got urushiol on his hands, then absentmindedly touched his thigh – and broke out in a rash shaped just like his palm. Ouch!
This transfer contact allergy shows how easily urushiol moves .
Recognizing Mango‑Induced Dermatitis
Early signs: Tiny, itchy blisters where the skin met the mango peel.
Progression: Blisters evolve into red, eczematous patches.
When to seek help: Any unusual rash after mango handling warrants a visit. Topical medicals with antihistamines can clear it quickly.
Enjoy Mango Safely: Four Simple Tips
So what do you do if you have this issue and want to eat mangos?
- Peel with Care
Wear gloves or use a knife to avoid direct skin contact. - Keep It Clean
Wash your hands and any utensils thoroughly after handling mango skin. - Hands Off Your Face
Resist the urge to touch your face or body while prepping mangoes. - Spoon, Don’t Nibble
Scoop out the flesh with a spoon instead of biting into the skin.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience persistent or severe reactions, the Allergy Immunology Clinic Team is here to help.
Please contact us to arrange an appointment.
Sometimes, your lip rash may be trigged by other things other than mango.
A patch test can help identify the contact dermatitis triggers for your lip allergy.
