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lemon for pigmentation
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #15553
45 days ago
121

lemon for pigmentation - #15553

Nikhil

I am really confused about this whole lemon for pigmentation thing. Like, I’ve been struggling with some dark spots on my face for ages now, and my friend told me that using lemon could help lighten them up. But, honestly, I’ve been hesitant because it sounds kinda like one of those home remedies that might not work. I read a bit about how lemon for pigmentation can be effective because of its natural acidity and vitamin C, but then I saw other stuff saying it can actually cause more irritation, which worries me. Few weeks ago, I tried dabbing some lemon juice on a spot and wow, it got really red and sensitive afterward. Should I have diluted the lemon juice or something? How often is it safe to use lemon for pigmentation? Also, are there any particular types of pigmentation that this actually works on? I feel like I get mixed signals about using lemon for pigmentation, like some people swear by it and others say it’s a big no. Would really appreciate any advice from you guys who know what you're doing!

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Doctors’ responses

Using lemon juice for pigmentation is a common home remedy, but it’s important to be cautious. Lemon juice contains citric acid and vitamin C, which can help lighten dark spots, but it’s also highly acidic and can irritate the skin. This irritation can lead to more redness, especially in sensitive skin or when applied in high concentrations. If you’ve already experienced redness, it’s probably best to avoid applying lemon juice directly on the skin without diluting it. A safer approach might be to mix a few drops with water or a milder carrier like aloe vera gel, but even this can still be irritating for some people.

As for how often to use it, testing tolerance is key. Start with once a week if you’re determined to try it, but be vigilant for any signs of irritation such as redness, itching, or increased sensitivity. If any of these happen, discontinue immediately. There aren’t specific types of pigmentation that lemon juice is proven to work on, and results can be quite variable among individuals. Lemon juice can be more effective for fresh, superficial hyperpigmentation, but it’s not typically recommended for deep or persistent spots.

Professionally, topical treatments containing ingredients such as azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, or niacinamide might be more effective and are formulated to minimize irritation. Consult a dermatologist to get advice tailored to your skin’s specific needs, especially if you’re dealing with pigmentation that’s persistent or bothersome. They can provide treatments suited for your skin type and condition, including prescription creams or clinical procedures like chemical peels or laser therapy, which are scientifically validated. It’s important never to rely solely on self-treatment remedies that might aggravate your skin condition.

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