If you’ve ever browsed through DIY face and hair masks, we’re sure you’ve noticed the recurrence of lemon as an ingredient. The several benefits and uses of lemon are what make it a popular choice. Even several celebrities vouch for the benefits of lemon in skincare! However, use of lemon on the face in an incorrect manner can result in skin issues. To save you from the skin troubles, we are here with a detailed guide of ‘How to use lemon on face?’ in the right way.
Why is it important to use lemon in the right manner?
Lemons are naturally acidic in nature, as it is between 2 to 3 pH. Being a citric acid, incorrect use of lemon can mess with the natural pH level of the skin. This can result in severe skin irritation and sensitivity to the sun. It can weaken the protective layer of your skin and cause pigmentation, dryness and sun damage. These drawbacks of lemon make professionals wary about using it directly on skin. However, we are here with tips that give you different ways to use lemon correctly.
1. Always do a patch test!
It is very important to do a patch test before introducing any skincare product or ingredient to your routine. Similarly, if you want to incorporate lemon juice, it is important you do a patch test. Before beginning the use of lemon on your face, simply take a couple of drops and apply it to a small section of your face. The best place to do a patch test is on your jawline, behind your ear or on a small section on your cheek. Observe that section for 24-48 hours for any sensitivity or irritation. If irritation occurs, it is best to stop using it immediately.
2. Use Vitamin C products instead
If you’re afraid of using lemon directly on your skin, but still want to reap its benefits, then this one's for you! Using products enriched with vitamin C extracts is one of the best ways to use lemon. The active ingredient in lemon juice is ascorbic acid, aka vitamin C. Products enriched with vitamin C are great for your skin as they help to reduce acne, soothe inflammation, even out skin tone and so much more!
A vitamin C serum is a great way to deliver the benefits of vitamin C to your skin. Serums are formulated to deliver the uses of lemon in a safe manner and breathe new life into your skin. They have a lightweight texture which helps it seep deep into your skin. The properties of vitamin C serum help you get a bright, spotless complexion and brighter skin.
Another quick way of incorporating lemon in skincare is by using sheet masks with vitamin C serum. Vitamin C sheet masks are infused with the goodness of vitamin C and lemon. They help you achieve glowing skin and reducing dark spots.
3. Dilute lemon juice
If you still insist on using lemon juice in your skincare routine, it is best to dilute it before use. Direct application of lemon juice to your skin can result in skin irritation and even skin burns. The best way to use lemon on your face would be to dilute one part lemon with two parts of water. If you are adding lemon juice to a DIY face mask, make sure you’re not adding more than a couple of drops.
4. Protect your skin
After any product with vitamin C or lemon juice, it is imperative to protect your skin from sun damage. Your skin is sensitive, which is why it is necessary to use SPF. Religiously using SPF after using vitamin C or lemon juice in your skincare will protect your skin from phytophotodermatitis.
There are several uses of lemon, however, it is very important to choose the right way to use lemon on your skin! Just a few safety measures and you can reap the wonderful benefits of vitamin C on your skin. You can use the Garnier Bright Complete range which is formulated with the goodmess of vitamin C. These products will help you achieve glowy and beautiful skin!
FAQs
Squeeze a small amount of juice from a fresh lemon onto a cotton ball. Gently apply to the desired area of skin using gentle pressure (don't rub). Once the lemon juice dries, you can continue with the rest of your skin care routine. Start with once daily application, potentially working your way up to twice a day.
What happens if I rub lemon on my face every day? ›
Irritation on the skin: Applying lemon extracts directly to the face often causes skin irritation due to its high acidic properties. Skin irritation such as dryness, redness, peeling, and flakiness are some of the common side effects. If you have sensitive skin, these symptoms can become severe.
What does lemon do in skincare? ›
Antioxidant. Lemon juice naturally contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that may help reduce skin damage and premature aging. Astringent qualities. Due to its high pH levels, lemon can decrease oil on the skin and reduce inflammation.
Should I wash my face after applying lemon juice? ›
Lemons are antibacterial, they can help treat acne, blackheads . its natural bleaching properties helps in getting you even skin tone . Just slice a lemon, and squeeze the juice , apply with cotton on your face and rinse off after 10 minutes with cold water.
How long to leave lemon on your face? ›
For how long can you leave lemon juice on your face? A. It's safe to keep lemon juice on your face for about 15-20 minutes. However, if you feel any stinging or burning sensation or if your skin turns red, then wash your face immediately.
Can I apply moisturizer after applying lemon on face? ›
After using a honey lemon face mask any moisturizer should be applied only after 1–2 hours of using the mask. The skin will be a little sensitive so wait a while before applying anything. Face wash is really not needed when using a mask but if you want you can use before you apply the mask.
What is the disadvantage of lemon on face? ›
Being a citric acid, incorrect use of lemon can mess with the natural pH level of the skin. This can result in severe skin irritation and sensitivity to the sun. It can weaken the protective layer of your skin and cause pigmentation, dryness and sun damage.
Can lemon remove dark spots? ›
Lemon juice can help fade away dark spots and scars
Applied topically, lemon juice will work to gradually reduce the appearance of blemishes and acne scars. With a cotton pad, wipe fresh lemon juice onto any healed scars or dark patches. Rinse off with lukewarm water after five minutes and pat dry.
How long does it take for lemon to lighten dark spots? ›
It can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months.
However, if your dark spots are really dark, it could take a couple of years.
Does lemon increase collagen? ›
The vitamin C in lemons helps to form collagen, a protein that supports your skin. The vitamin C, folic acid, vitamin B, and minerals in lemon may help to improve your acne, oily skin, blackheads, and dandruff. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant.
Lemon juice is highly acidic, and direct application can damage the delicate skin on your face, leading to irritation, dryness, and even hyperpigmentation. Moreover, lemon juice is not formulated for use as a serum, and it lacks the stabilizers and other ingredients that are typically found in vitamin C serums.
How do you rub lemon peel on your face? ›
Process: Grind the lemon peels and make a thick paste adding water to it. Application: Apply the paste wherever you have dark spots or age spots. Let the paste stay on your face for one hour. Rinse it off with water.
Can I rub lemon on my face every day? ›
If you use it on a daily basis, it can cause flaky patches and wrinkles. 1. Skin Irritation: People with sensitive skin should be careful when applying lemon to their skin, as it can cause skin irritation.
How to make a lemon face wash? ›
In a bowl, mix the juice of 1/2 a lemon (strain to remove seeds & pulp), 1/2 teaspoon honey, and 1/2 teaspoon of sugar. Use this mixture to gently massage your face, focusing on your nose, forehead, & chin areas, which are prone to blackheads and open pores. Leave it on for 5 minutes.
Is rubbing lemon on feet good? ›
Lemon juice soak: Lemon juice is antimicrobial and can help clean the skin. Squeeze juice from 1-2 lemons and dilute with warm water. Soak your feet in it for 10-15 minutes, rinse, and pat dry. Avoid using undiluted lemon juice if you have cracks or sores in your feet, as the lemon juice can cause a burning sensation.
Can we apply lemon directly on skin? ›
Direct application of lemon juice to your skin can result in skin irritation and even skin burns. The best way to use lemon on your face would be to dilute one part lemon with two parts of water. If you are adding lemon juice to a DIY face mask, make sure you're not adding more than a couple of drops.
What can I mix with lemon for glowing skin? ›
Lemon and milk powder
Milk powder is a rich source of lactic acid and is a great natural way to lighten and brighten skin. It acts as a mild bleach when mixed with lemon juice, thanks to all the influx of antioxidants. This mask calms the skin, lightens the skin and leaves behind and instant glow.
How do you use lemon peel for skin care? ›
Take 2 tablespoons of Lemon peel powder in a glass or plastic bowl, and 2 tablespoons of rose water and add 2 to 3 drops of lemon juice to make a paste. Apply this paste on the face, neck, and other adjoining areas. Let it leave for at least 20-25 minutes.
