Lemons are known for their purifying properties due to their high vitamin C and citric acid content, especially when some freshly cut wedges are added to your drinking water.
Thanks to their health advantages, lemons are becoming increasingly popular as a natural therapy for skin disorders such as age spots and acne.
However, applying lemons to your face can do more harm than good to your skin. The hazards and advantages of lemon juice on the skin are discussed here.
Possible Benefits of Lemon for Skin
Lemon’s natural acidity and its vitamin C concentration provide skin-beneficial properties. Lemons can be used for a variety of things, including:
Acne Treatment
Because of its acidic nature, lemon juice has astringent properties. Lemons, for example, have a low pH and can help reduce inflammation and oil, both of which can contribute to acne production.
Furthermore, citric acid that is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) can aid in the breakdown of dead skin cells that cause non-inflammatory acne, such as blackheads.
Antimicrobial Effects
Lemons also have antibacterial properties that may assist in controlling the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes causing inflammatory acne.
Lemon is also richly packed with antifungal properties, which may aid in treating Candida rashes and the scalp fungus that can accompany seborrheic dermatitis.
Psoriasis and Dandruff Treatment
Because lemon juice may remove dead skin cells, it’s thought that it could help with skin spots caused by psoriasis and dandruff.
Lemon’s natural amounts of citric acid are thought to be responsible for the sloughing-off effects, as AHAs exfoliate the skin.
Skin or Hair Lightening
Lemon and other citrus components may help lighten age spots and acne scars, as well as any facial hair.
Increased Collagen
Some advocates of putting lemon on the skin claim that the citrus fruit is a natural way to boost collagen production in the face.
Collagen is a type of protein that breaks down naturally as we get older, resulting in fine lines and wrinkles.
Vitamin C, as an antioxidant, may aid in preventing free radicals from damaging collagen, resulting in smoother skin.
Side Effects and Precautions of Using Lemon
Lemon has more negative effects on the skin than positive ones, making it a dangerous DIY skincare alternative. If you have sensitive skin or expose your face to the sun after using lemon, the hazards are increased.
Skin Irritation
Skin irritation is the most common side effect of ingesting fruit acids. Lemon’s acidity can irritate the skin, so be careful when using it.
The skin may become red, dry, and peeled due to the medication. These effects may be magnified if you have sensitive skin. As a general rule, people with sensitive skin should avoid using lemon products on their skin.
Phytophotodermatitis
Citrus fruits and other culprits like parsley, celery, and carrot plants cause phytophotodermatitis, a sort of skin reaction.
An inflammatory reaction may occur if you have citrus compounds on your skin and then expose it to UV radiation. Symptoms such as redness, swelling, and blistering might occur due to this.
Leukoderma
Leukoderma, also known as vitiligo, is a condition in which your skin becomes lighter due to a loss of melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its natural color.
While some people use lemon to lighten black spots on their skin, extensive, broad white leukoderma areas can result.
Sunburn
Applying citrus fruits to your skin can also raise your risk of sunburn. Never use lemon before going outside in direct sunshine, and wait several days before engaging in any planned outdoor activities.
Method to Use Lemon on the Skin
Treat it like any other fresh skincare product when putting lemon directly on your face. Lemon should only be applied as a spot therapy because of its potency and probable adverse effects.
- Use a skin region away from your face, such as the inside of your elbow, to perform a patch test. Before applying lemon to your face, wait for one to two days to ensure no adverse side effects.
- Using a cotton ball, squeeze a tiny amount of fresh lemon juice. Apply mild pressure to the targeted skin area (do not rub).
- You can continue with the remainder of your skincare routine once the lemon juice has dried.
- Begin with one application per day and work your way up to twice daily.
- If you have any adverse side effects, stop taking them.
Conclusion
Natural ingredients can soothe your skin, but precautions should be made to avoid any side effects. Before using lemon on your skin, try considering your dermatologist. To consult the best dermatologist, visit MARHAM.PK.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1- Can I put lemon on my face every day?
Start with once-daily applications to try fresh lemon as a face treatment. If you see a difference in your complexion, you should stop using lemon.
2- When should I stop using lemon?
If you know you’ll be out in the sun, avoid using lemon because it can raise your chance of sunburn and other adverse effects.
3- Can you leave lemon on your face overnight?
Lemon is highly acidic, so any adverse effects that appear overnight may be challenging to detect. It’s recommended to begin using the lotion during the day so you can keep an eye on your skin.
4- Is lemon good for sensitive skin?
Lemon should not be used for the skin of people having sensitive skin.
Mian Abdul Wahab
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