is rubbing lemon on face good - #18606
I am really curious if rubbing lemon on face is good like I've heard people say. A few weeks ago, I tried it after seeing some video online. My skin was looking kinda dull after winter, and the whole citric acid thing seemed like a bright idea, right? Anyway, I squeezed half a lemon and rubbed it on my face, and at first, it felt refreshing. But then, a few minutes later, I started to feel this weird tingling sensation. I thought "uh-oh," maybe I’d overdone it. The next day my face was a bit red, which got me worried. Other people seem to swear by it, saying that rubbing lemon on face is good for brightening, but I don't know if that's worth the risk of irritation. Should I just stop completely? Also, is that effect from rubbing lemon on face just temporary? I mean, I never really had sensitive skin before, but have I just messed up my face? Should I be doing something else to counteract the redness? Any experiences or advice would be super helpful!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Applying lemon juice directly to the face can be a bit of a gamble, mainly due to its high acidity. While lemons are known for their vitamin C content and potential brightening effects, they can also be quite harsh, particularly on sensitive or previously untested skin areas. The tingling sensation you experienced is likely due to the citric acid, and if it led to redness, it suggests your skin reacted to that acidity. Natural ingredients do hold their appeal, but sometimes their potency can lead to irritation or even cause chemical burns, particularly if exposed to sunlight after application. This is why many skincare professionals caution against directly rubbing lemon juice on the skin. Some people may tolerate it well, but given your reaction, it’s best to steer clear. The redness you noticed should subside with time, but it’s important to nurture your skin’s recovery. In the meantime, stop using lemon and instead, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to help replenish your skin barrier. If the redness persists, or if you notice any worsening irritation, it might be prudent to consult a dermatologist for tailored advice. Consider using a sunscreen daily, as this will protect your skin from further damage. There are safer and more controlled options for skin brightening, such as vitamin C serums specifically formulated for facial use. These products are designed to provide the benefits of vitamin C without the risk of irritation associated with raw lemon juice. Keeping your skin moisturized and protected is key, alongside adopting a well-balanced diet and good hydration — all of which help maintain a healthy complexion from the inside out.
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.