The pros and cons of using lemon on your skin
BEAUTY experts and skincare bloggers often advise you to add vitamin C to your skincare routine.
So, we all turn to sources of vitamin C and the most easily and readily available is the humble lemon.
You might come across various DIY treatments that include lemon juice, lemon zest, etc.
There are a number of benefits to adding lemon to your skin routine, but in the past few years warnings of associated risks have become common.
Let’s weigh in on the pros and cons.
Benefits:
Exfoliates dead skin – Lemon juice contains alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) such as glycolic acid. Such acids are commonly used in skincare as they increase cell turnover and slough away dead skin cells.
Reduces acne – Lemon juice has astringent qualities due to its acidity. Ingredients with a low ph level can help decrease inflammation and oil that may contribute to the formation of acne. Furthermore, citric acid can help break down dead skin cells that lead to non-inflammatory forms of acne, like blackheads.
Increases collagen production – The body needs vitamin C to synthesise collagen, the main structural protein in the skin. Using ingredients rich in vitamin C can help with collagen production.
Skin spot or hair lightening – Citrus may also work well on lightening age spots or acne scars, as well as any hair on your face.
Dandruff treatment – Lemon has been used to treat dandruff for ages. The sloughing-off effects are attributed to lemon’s natural levels of citric acid. Therefore, it can also alleviate skin patches attributed to dandruff.
Offers antioxidants – Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, meaning it can help fight oxidative stress which can lead to inflammation, sagging and faster skin ageing.
Disadvantages:
Causes irritation – Lemon juice can cause irritation. This is a side effect of acids, like those in lemon juice.
Possible symptoms include peeling, dryness, stinging and redness, depending on your skin tone.
Sunburn – Don’t apply lemon before going outside in direct sunlight, and don’t use it for several days before any planned outdoor activities.
Phytophotodermatitis – This is a type of skin reaction to citrus fruits, parsley, celery and carrots.
When you have citrus on your skin and your skin is then exposed to UV rays, an inflammatory reaction may occur. This can result in swelling, redness and rashes.
Hyperpigmentation – Although lemon juice is often used to reduce hyperpigmentation, it can actually worsen the issue if sunburnt.
Take the following steps in order to protect your skin:
Do a patch test on your arms before applying it to your face.
Always dilute lemon juice with something like rose water or honey.
Sunscreen is a must after you apply lemon juice.
Use fresh lemons; bottled lemon juice is highly concentrated.