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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #20082
2 days ago
14

lemon for skin - #20082

Aadhyant

I am in a bit of a pickle here and need some advice about using lemon for skin stuff. A few weeks ago, I started getting these really annoying dark spots on my face outta nowhere! Like, seriously, what is that about? I remembered hearing somewhere that lemon for skin can help lighten spots and even skin tone, right? So, I squeezed some fresh lemon juice and dabbed it on my face. I mean, it sounded good in theory, but OMG, it stung like crazy! Should I just power through that or am I ruining my skin? I also read about some other benefits of lemon for skin, like brightening and acne control, and now I’m super confused. Should I mix lemon with something else to make it less harsh? Also, are there any risks with using lemon for skin, like making it more sensitive to the sun? I feel like I’m playing with fire here, but I’m desperate to get my glowing skin back. Plus, how often can I use lemon for skin without causing damage? I just want *some* clarity before I end up making my face look worse than it already does!

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Doctors’ responses

Using lemon juice on your skin can seem tempting due to its reputation for lightening dark spots and brightening skin, but there are some important things to consider before continuing this regimen. Lemon juice is highly acidic, which means it can irritate and damage your skin barrier, particularly if you’re applying it directly. The stinging you describe is a clear sign your skin is reacting to the acidity. This reaction is pretty common and could lead to burning or peeling, so I’d advise against “powering through” it, as it may worsen the irritation. Beyond irritation, lemon juice can indeed make your skin more sensitive to the sun, called photosensitivity. This can lead to more intense darkening or even cause burns when your skin is exposed to sunlight, which seems counterproductive when you’re trying to lighten spots. To mitigate harshness, mixing lemon juice with gentler carriers like honey or yogurt can alleviate some irritation, though caution is still advised. More importantly, consider safer alternatives that provide similar benefits, such as products with vitamin C, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid. These are more stable, better-tolerated ways to achieve brightening without the adverse effects. If persistent dark spots continue to be a concern, consulting a dermatologist could provide targeted treatments like retinoids or chemical peels. As for frequency, it’s best to avoid frequent application and focus on more clinically-backed ingredients. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen when using products that affect skin pigmentation, even with safer alternatives. The key is to be protective and gentle to achieve healthy skin.

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