what happens when we apply lemon on face - #15265
I am kinda worried about my skin after trying this lemon thing on my face! Like, I read everywhere that applying lemon on face could help with brightening and acne, right? So I thought, why not? I squeezed some lemon juice and put it on my face for like 10 minutes. It felt a little tingly, which I thought was normal. But then a few hours later, I noticed my skin was really red and irritated! I had this patchy dryness on my cheeks and a bit of swelling! I mean, what happens when we apply lemon on face normally? Is the redness a common thing or did I mess something up? I’ve also heard that lemon can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, which makes me super anxious, like will I have to avoid going out or use a ton of sunscreen? Also, I read about some people getting peeling after using lemon on their face...is that something I should expect? Like, how do I approach this now? Should I just stop using it altogether or is there a way to fix my skin? Feeling frustrated and a bit confused over here! What happens when we apply lemon on face, good or bad, I just wanna know!
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Doctors’ responses
Applying lemon juice directly to the skin, especially the face, can often lead to irritation, redness, and even mild burns or swelling due to its high acidity and potential allergenic compounds. The tingling sensation you felt can be typical because the citric acid in lemons is quite potent and can disrupt the natural pH balance of your skin, leading to irritation. The redness and patchiness you are experiencing likely stem from the acid stripping away some of the top layer of your skin, causing it to be overly dry and inflamed. It is possible that some people might see a temporary brightening or tightening effect, but this often comes with the risk of irritation or damage. You are correct in noting that applying lemon juice can increase photosensitivity. The compounds in lemon can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays, leading to a higher risk of sunburn and possibly hyperpigmentation. To address this, consistently use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher if you’re going to be exposed to the sun, even just casually. For now, it’s advisable to stop using lemon on your skin to prevent further irritation. To help your skin recover, focus on soothing and hydrating products like an unscented moisturizer containing ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid. Avoid any other exfoliating or harsh products until your skin heals. If swelling or severe irritation persists, a topical anti-inflammatory cream, like hydrocortisone, might be helpful, but consider consulting a healthcare provider before trying new treatments. Long-term, it’s best to be cautious with home remedies that may not be suitable for all skin types. Always patch test new applications in a less sensitive area and consider professional dermatological advice tailored to your skin’s needs.
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