what if we apply lemon on face - #21879
I am really curious about what if we apply lemon on face because I've heard mixed reviews about this. A couple weeks ago, I got this weird rash on my cheeks, and naturally, I freaked out a bit. I tried to find anything that might help and stumbled upon some posts saying lemon is super great for skin. I thought, why not, right? So, I squeezed some fresh lemon juice and applied it. Mistake, or heaven-sent? Well, at first, it felt refreshing, but then I felt this odd burning sensation after a few minutes. I rushed to wash it off. It's confusing... I mean, are there benefits or risks when what if we apply lemon on face? Everyone talks about how it's good for brightening but what if it hurts instead? My skin doesn't usually react badly, but now I’m just worried that I've made things worse. Should I have diluted it, or was I just being reckless? I really want to know, is it a good idea to use lemon on face at all, or did I just rush into something I should’ve avoided? Any advice would help, thanks!
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Doctors' responses
Applying lemon juice to your face can be problematic rather than beneficial. The burning sensation you experienced could be due to the natural acidity of lemon juice, which might irritate your skin, especially if it’s applied in its pure form without any dilution. Lemon juice is highly acidic, and this acidity can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance, leading to irritation, dryness, or even exacerbate any underlying skin conditions like the rash you mentioned. In some cases, it can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, potentially leading to sunburn or other kinds of irritation through a condition called phytophotodermatitis. This reaction is due to the compounds in lemon juice that, when exposed to sunlight, can increase the skins sensitivity, resulting in redness or hyperpigmentation.
The purported benefits of lemon juice, like skin brightening, are primarily due to its vitamin C content, which might potentially improve pigmentation issues or a dull complexion. However, these benefits are relatively surface-level and don’t outweigh the risks for most people, particularly those with sensitive or already irritated skin. If you’re considering using lemon for its vitamin C benefits, commercially formulated vitamin C serums are a safer alternative, as they are designed to deliver the necessary nutrients without the risk of harsh acidity. They tend to be much more stable, and their efficacy can be supported by additional ingredients that enhance skin absorption without the accompanying risk of irritation.
Coming to dilution, while some people suggest diluting lemon juice with water or combining it with other ingredients like honey or yogurt to reduce irritation, even diluted lemon juice can still pose a risk for sensitive skin. If you notice any unusual reaction like redness or prolonged burning, it’s a sign to stop the application and possibly consult with a dermatologist, especially if the concern persists or worsens.
For your rash, you might consider using gentle moisturizers or products that soothe irritation. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or oatmeal, which are known for their calming properties. Avoid any exfoliants or active skincare treatments until your skin has calmed down. If you haven’t yet, consulting with a healthcare provider or dermatologist is advisable for a definitive diagnosis and targeted treatment recommendations if the rash does not improve.
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