is it ok to apply lemon on face - #15627
I am just trying to figure out this whole skincare thing. Last week, I read somewhere that lemon is really good for the skin, like it helps with brightening and even makes pores look smaller, you know? But then I started to wonder — is it ok to apply lemon on face? I mean, I’ve used lemon juice on my skin before, mostly for dark spots, and I felt like it worked a bit but also made my skin kinda sensitive. Like, one time after I put lemon on my face, I went out in the sun without sunscreen, and I ended up with these weird patches. Does that mean I shouldn't use it again? Or maybe I just used too much or something? I've heard a lot of mixed reviews about natural remedies and lemon, especially if you're prone to irritation, like my skin gets red sometimes after using certain products. It’s frustrating because I really want to brighten my complexion, but I don’t wanna damage my skin in the process, you know? So, seriously, is it ok to apply lemon on face or is there some kind of risk I’m missing out on? Any advice would be super helpful!
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Doctors’ responses
Applying lemon juice to your face does involve some risks that you should be aware of. While lemon can potentially help with brightening the skin due to its vitamin C content and acidic properties, it can also cause irritation and increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, leading to photosensitivity. This means you could be more susceptible to sunburns and hyperpigmentation, just like you experienced with the patches after going out in the sun. If your skin tends to be sensitive or you’ve noticed irritation after using lemon juice, it might be best to avoid it or, at least, use it with caution. If you do decide to try it again, always dilute the lemon juice with water or mix it with other soothing ingredients like honey, and be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen afterward if you’re heading outside. Additionally, perform a patch test on a small area of your skin to see how your skin reacts before applying lemon juice to your entire face. There are alternative skincare products designed to brighten and even out skin tone that might be more suitable and safer, especially if your skin is prone to irritation. Look for products containing stabilized vitamin C, niacinamide, or alpha hydroxy acids, which offer similar benefits without the potential for irritation that lemon juice can cause. If you’re unsure about what to use or need guidance tailored to your specific skin type, it might be helpful to consult with a dermatologist who can provide personalized recommendations.
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