how to use lemon on face - #18430
I am really curious about how to use lemon on face after seeing my friend’s skin glow after she tried it. She said it cleared up some dark spots and made her complexion super bright, but I’m kinda hesitant. I mean, I’ve heard about the benefits of lemon, like it being full of vitamin C and all, but don’t really know how to use lemon on face safely. I did try rubbing a slice on my face once, but it burned a bit and I ended up with some redness. She suggested mixing lemon juice with some honey or yogurt, but is that really the right way? Also, how often can I do this without damaging my skin? I have sensitive skin and don’t wanna make it worse, lol. And what about sun exposure after using lemon? Is that a thing I need to worry about? I guess my main question is, how to use lemon on face correctly and effectively without hurting my skin or making things worse? If anyone has tips or personal experiences, I’d love to hear!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Using lemon on your face can be tempting for its vitamin C content and potential brightening effects, but it’s crucial to approach it with caution, especially if you’ve got sensitive skin. Lemon juice is highly acidic, which can irritate the skin, leading to redness or even chemical burns, particularly if applied directly like you tried. Mixing lemon juice with soothing agents like honey or yogurt, which can act as buffers, might reduce some of the acidity, but it’s important not to overdo it. Start with a very diluted mixture. Try one part lemon juice with two parts honey or yogurt. This lessens the irritability while still getting some of lemon’s benefits. Apply this mixture as a mask for just a few minutes, maybe 5-10, and rinse it off thoroughly with lukewarm water. Limit this routine to about once a week, at most, observing how your skin reacts each time. Remember, your skin’s reaction can change, especially if you’re using other skincare products simultaneously. Another aspect to be careful about is sun exposure. Lemon juice can make your skin more sensitive to UV light, potentially increasing the risk of sunburn, known as phytophotodermatitis. It’s essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen if you plan to be outside afterwards. If your skin starts reacting with increased redness or irritation, stop using lemon immediately. It might be wise in such cases to consult with a dermatologist to get personalized skincare advice suited to your condition and skin type.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.