how to apply lemon on face - #20482
I am just really confused about how to apply lemon on face. I heard from a friend that lemon can work wonders for your skin, like lightening dark spots and adding some glow. Last week, I thought I'd give it a go before a big event, you know? My skin's been kinda dull, and I wanted to brighten it up a bit. I cut a lemon in half and squeezed some juice into a tiny bowl but then realized I had no idea how to apply lemon on face properly. Should I just dab it on with a cotton ball? Or is it better to rub it directly with the lemon half? I did try to apply it, but my skin started to sting a bit, and I panicked and rinsed it off way too quickly. I don’t know if I did it wrong or what. Like, is it common for lemon juice to sting? And how to apply lemon on face for sensitive skin? Also, how long should I keep it on if I ever try again? I’d really hate for something meant to help to mess up my skin more. Someone please help me figure out how to apply lemon on face without risking irritation.
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Doctors’ responses
When it comes to applying lemon on the face, it’s important to be cautious because lemon juice is acidic and can cause irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin. You’re right to be concerned about the stinging sensation you experienced, as this is a common reaction; and can actually mean your skin is being irritated. Before you apply lemon juice, it’s advisable to do a patch test on a small area of your skin, like the inside of your wrist, to check for any adverse reaction. If you decide to use lemon, you can dilute it with water to reduce its acidity. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water or even mix in a bit of honey for some extra soothing properties. Use a cotton ball to gently dab the diluted solution onto dark spots or areas needing brightening. It’s generally not recommended to rub a lemon half directly on the face as this can exacerbate irritation due to the abrasive citrus fibers. Limit the application to no more than a few minutes (2-3) initially and increase slowly if your skin seems to tolerate it well. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water once the time’s up. Since lemon juice can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen if you’re heading outdoors after using lemon, ensure your skin is well-protected. To maintain a balanced skincare routine, use lemon sparingly and combine it with other gentle skincare practices. If your skin continues to react negatively, it might be best to try alternative brighter ingredients like vitamin C serums that are formulated for topical use and can offer similar benefits without the harshness of lemon juice.
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