can lemon remove pimples?

Lemon & Salt Can Remove Pimples In 3 Days/Diy#

Packed with vitamin C, the humble lemon's benefits go a long, long way, beyond just building your immunity.

Squeeze a lemon and apply it on your skin to cure pimple marks or just mix it with some natural ingredients like honey, yogurt or chickpea to get rid of acne that often leaves unsightly scars on the face.

Also read: 5 health benefits of star anise, aka chakra phool, you didn't know about

Pure lemon juice: Take some lemon juice in a small bowl, soak a cotton ball in it and squeeze out the excess juice from it. Apply the lemon juice to the acne-affected area. Leave it on the skin for 10 minutes or till the lemon juice dries out completely. Rinse the area with water, then pat dry with a clean towel. Repeat this remedy twice every day.

Lemon juice & honey: Take lemon juice and honey in a bowl; mix well. Apply this mixture to the acne-affected area with your finger tips and leave it on for five minutes. Wash the area with water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow this remedy once a day.

Lemon & egg-white mask: Take an egg and separate the white. Add two tablespoons of lemon juice to it and whisk well. Divide the mixture into three parts. Apply the first layer of the mixture to the skin and leave on for five to seven minutes, then apply the second layer. After five to seven minutes, apply the third layer to the acne. After five to seven minutes, clean the area with warm water, then pat the skin dry. Follow this remedy regularly.

Lemon & chickpea: Take the chickpea powder in a small bowl and squeeze lemon juice on it. Mix the ingredients well to make a smooth paste. Apply it on acne-affected skin and leave it on for a few minutes. Rinse the area with lukewarm water and wipe the skin with a clean towel. You can apply your regular moisturiser to the skin if you feel it's become dry. Use this remedy once every day.

Lemon & yogurt: Take lemon juice and yogurt in a bowl and mix well to make a paste. Apply this paste on the acne-affected area with your fingertips. Leave it on for a few minutes, then wash the area with water. Repeat this process regularly.

Dr.Aakriti Mehra, consultant dermatologist, Enhance Clinics, shares some tips.

Many home remedies can help improve a person’s acne pimples and sores. Home remedies for acne include gentle herbal creams and gels, essential oils, natural supplements, and some simple lifestyle changes.

Acne develops when pores become clogged or infected with bacteria. Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting around 80 percent of people in their lifetimes.

People can use specific home remedies to help balance the skin’s oil levels, reduce inflammation, kill bacteria, and prevent future acne breakouts.

As yet, there is not much scientific evidence to prove the effectiveness of most home remedies. In this article, we discuss the current evidence for some of the home remedies that people may find useful.

Home remedies for acne

Some of the most popular home remedies for acne involve the use of natural herbal extracts, many of which traditional medicine practitioners have used for hundreds of years.

Below, we discuss the best home remedies for acne, what the research says, and lifestyle changes that can help.

1. Tea tree oil

Applying tea tree oil to the skin can help reduce swelling and redness.

Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, which means that it might kill P. acnes, the bacteria that causes acne.

Tea tree oil’s anti-inflammatory properties mean that it can also reduce the swelling and redness of pimples.

A 2015 review study looked at the existing evidence for tea tree oil and acne. The researchers found that tea tree oil products can reduce the number of acne sores in people with mild to moderate acne.

This study suggested that tea tree oil may work as well as 5 percent benzoyl peroxide, which is a common over-the-counter (OTC) acne medication.

How to use tea tree oil

People can apply tea tree extract to their acne in creams, gels, or essential oils. If people use essential oils, always dilute them in a carrier oil first.

A range of tea tree oil products is available online.

2. Jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is a natural, waxy substance extracted from the seeds of the jojoba shrub.

The waxy substances in jojoba oil may help to repair damaged skin, which means it may also help speed up wound healing, including acne lesions.

Some of the compounds in jojoba oil might help to reduce skin inflammation, which means it may reduce redness and swelling around pimples, whiteheads, and other inflamed lesions.

In a 2012 studyTrusted Source, researchers gave 133 people clay face masks that contained jojoba oil. After 6 weeks of using the masks 2 to 3 times per week, people reported a 54 percent improvement in their acne.

How to use jojoba oil

Try mixing jojoba essential oil with a gel, cream, or clay face mask and applying it to acne. Otherwise, place a few drops of jojoba oil on a cotton pad and rub this gently over acne sores.

People can buy jojoba oil at health stores or online.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, meaning it may reduce the appearance of acne and prevent acne breakouts.

Aloe vera contains lots of water and is an excellent moisturizer, so it is especially suitable for people who get dry skin from other anti-acne products.

In a 2014 study, researchers gave people with mild to moderate acne aloe vera gel and tretinoin cream, which is a common OTC acne remedy, to use for 8 weeks.

The participants reported a significant improvement in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne compared to people who used just tretinoin gel.

How to use aloe vera gel

Try cleaning the acne sores and then applying a thin layer of cream or gel with at least 10 percentTrusted Source aloe vera content.

Otherwise, people can moisturize with gels or creams that contain aloe vera. These are available to buy from health stores or online.

4. Honey

Honey has been used to treat skin conditions, such as acne, for thousands of years. It contains many antioxidants that can help to clear waste and debris from clogged pores.

Doctors use honey in wound dressings because of its antibacterial and wound-healing properties.

How to use honey

Using a clean finger or cotton pad, rub a little honey into pimples. Otherwise, add honey to a face or body mask.

5. Garlic

Many traditional medicine practitioners use garlic to treat infections and boost the body’s ability to fight germs and infections.

Garlic contains organosulfur compounds, which have natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Organosulfur compounds can also help to boost the immune system, which helps the body fight infections.

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How to use garlic

To fight the inflammation and infections caused by acne, people can add more garlic to their diet. Some people chew whole garlic cloves, rub it on toast, or make it into a hot drink.

People can also buy garlic powders or capsules from most grocery stores and natural health stores.

Although many online sources recommend that people apply garlic directly to pimples, this may cause further skin irritation. Garlic can burn the skin, so always use it carefully.

6. Green tea

Green tea is high in antioxidants that can help to reduce inflammation in the skin.

Green tea contains high concentrations of a group of polyphenol antioxidants called catechins.

Most people with acne have too much sebum, or natural body oils, in their pores and not enough antioxidants.

Antioxidants help the body break down chemicals and waste products that can damage healthy cells. Green tea may help clear out some of the debris and waste that has built up in open acne sores.

Green tea also contains compounds that may help to:

reduce the skin’s sebum production

reduce P. acnes

reduce inflammation

How to use green tea

Green tea might help either whenTrusted Source people drink it or use green tea extract on their skin, though researchers say that the current evidence is limited.

However, one study found a 79 and 89 percent reduction in whiteheads and blackheads after 8 weeks of using polyphenol green tea extract.

People can find green tea in most high street stores. Green tea extract is harder to find, but it is available from some health stores or online.

7. Echinacea

Echinacea, Echinacea purpurea, also known as the purple coneflower, may contain compounds that help destroy viruses and bacteria, including P. acnes.

Many people believe that Echinacea can boost the immune system and reduce inflammation and use it to fight off or prevent infections, including colds and flus.

How to use Echinacea

People can apply creams containing Echinacea to areas where they have acne lesions or take Echinacea supplements.

Echinacea products are available from health stores or online as creams or supplements.

8. Rosemary

Rosemary extract, or Rosmarinus officinalis, contains chemicals and compounds that have antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Few studies have looked at the effect of rosemary extract on acne, but a 2013 studyTrusted Source on mice models and human cells suggested that rosemary extract can reduce inflammation from the acne-causing bacteria P. acnes.

9. Purified bee venom

Purified bee venom has been shown to contain antibacterial properties.

In a 2013 studyTrusted Source, researchers found that purified bee venom can destroy P. acnes bacteria. People who used cosmetics with purified bee venom for 2 weeks had improvements in the number of acne lesions.

In a 2016 studyTrusted Source, people who applied a gel containing purified bee venom to their face for 6 weeks saw a reduction in mild to moderate acne lesions.

Purified bee venom may be a useful future ingredient in acne medication, though more research is needed.

10. Coconut oil

Like other natural remedies, coconut oil contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds.

These properties mean that coconut oil may destroy acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness and swelling of pimples. Coconut oil may also speed up healing in open acne sores.

How to use coconut oil

Try rubbing pure, virgin coconut oil directly to the area with acne. Look for coconut oil in the natural foods section of grocery stores or online.

How to use lemon for skin safely: Practical tips Dermatologist

Lifestyle changes for acne

Along with home remedies, specific lifestyle changes can have a powerful effect on keeping the body healthy, making the skin less oily, and reducing acne flare-ups.

Lifestyle changes to improve acne include:

11. Never touching pimples

People should avoid touching acne sores as doing so can cause further infections.

It can be very tempting, but touching acne sores will irritate the skin, may make the pimple worse, and can spread pimples to other areas.

Touching, rubbing, squeezing, or popping acne sores can also introduce more bacteria into the lesion, causing further infections.

Squeezing a pimple can push bacteria and debris further into the skin, so the pimple may come back worse than it was before.

Talk with a doctor about large sores or those that are deep under the skin to find out how to remove them safely.

12. Choosing the right cleanser

Many regular soaps have an acidity, or pH, that is too high and can irritate the skin, making acne worse.

Choose cleansers, rinses, and washes with a pH closer to the skin’s natural pH of around 5.5 to reduce the risk of acne flare-ups and let sores heal.

13. Using oil-free skincare

Oil-based or greasy products can block pores, increasing the risk of them becoming clogged and forming acne sores.

Look for skin care products and cosmetics labeled as ‘oil-free’ or ‘non-comedogenic,’ which contain ingredients that allow pores to breathe.

14. Staying hydrated

Staying hydrated is extremely important because it makes it easier for acne sores to heal and reduces the overall risk of outbreaks.

When the skin is dry, it can easily become irritated or damaged, resulting in pimples. Being hydrated also ensures new skin cells develop correctly as sores heal.

There is no standard daily recommend water intake because each person’s water needs are different, depending on age, how active they are, temperature, and any medical conditions.

Many health authorities recommend drinking between six and eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid daily.

15. Reducing stress

The American Academy of Dermatology lists stress as a possible cause of acne flare-ups.

Stress causes levels of the hormone androgen to increase. Androgen stimulates hair follicles and oil glands in pores, increasing the risk of acne.

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Tips for managing stress include:

talking to family, friends, a doctor, or other supportive people

getting enough sleep

eating a healthful, balanced diet and avoiding skipping meals

exercising regularly

limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption

practicing deep breathing, yoga, mindfulness, or meditation

Medical treatments for acne

There are many medical treatment options for acne, many of which are highly effective, though they can cause some side effects and may not be right for everyone.

People can speak to a doctor about whether using medicine or medicinal creams is right for them, especially if home remedies have not been working.

Popular OTC treatments for mild to moderate acne sores contain the following active ingredients:

salicylic acid

hydrogen peroxide

alpha hydroxy acids

Doctors may prescribe stronger medication to treat acne, including:

tretinoin gels and creams

clindamycin gels and creams

oral antibiotics

oral isotretinoin

birth control medications

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When to see a doctor

People may want to talk to their doctor if their acne sores are:

very painful

often infected

deep under the skin

not responding to home treatment

covering a large area of skin

causing emotional distress

Outlook

People can choose from a wide range of home remedies to treat their acne. Not all remedies will work for everyone or in every case, however.

People may need to use trial and error to find out which methods work for them. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not monitor herbal products or essentials oils.

Most natural remedies for acne are not scientifically proven to work, but some people may find them useful.

FADE ACNE SCARS WITH LEMON! Naturally Lighten Skin At Home! *UPDATED!*

Always talk with a doctor before using natural remedies for severe, chronic, deep, or painful acne sores. Talk with a doctor about minor acne sores that do not respond to basic care or continue to get worse.

Lemon contains an abundance of plant compounds that may help treat and prevent acne. However, using lemon juice or lemon oil directly on the skin may cause unwanted side effects.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million people each year.

Many people seek home remedies to treat their acne before turning to medical options.

This article provides information on the safety and effectiveness of lemon as an acne treatment. We also outline some alternative treatment options for acne.

Does it work?

Applying lemon to the skin may cause burning or stinging sensations.

Some people claim to have success using lemon as an acne treatment. They suggest that lemon prevents inflammation or reduces the amount of oil and bacteria on their skin.

Scientists have not directly investigated the efficacy of lemon as a treatment for acne. However, some studies have investigated lemon’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects more generally. Most have investigated lemon essential oil, which derives from lemon peel.

Although research suggests that essential oils may have some health benefits, it is important to remember that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not monitor or regulate the purity or quality of these. A person should talk with a healthcare professional before using essential oils, and they should be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. A person should always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.

Anti-inflammatory effects of lemon essential oil

A 2018 animal studyTrusted Source investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of essential oils derived from four different types of citrus. This included one species of lemon and three different species of lime.

The study showed that the lemon essential oil and two of the three lime essential oils reduced inflammation in mice. The authors attributed these anti-inflammatory effects to the chemical limonene, which is abundant in citrus peel.

A separate 2018 animal study also found that topical application of lemon oil helped to reduce skin inflammation and skin damage in mice.

Given that both studies involved only animals, it is not possible to say whether the findings apply humans.

Antimicrobial effects of lemon

A 2016 studyTrusted Source found that juice concentrates of lemon and other citrus fruits inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi in the lab. The authors attributed these antimicrobial effects to special plant compounds that citrus fruits contain in abundance. Examples of such compounds include:

phenols

flavonoids

essential oils

A 2017 laboratory study investigated the antimicrobial properties of the following three essential oils:

How to Remove Acne/Pimples with Lemon | Heal Acne Scars in 2 Weeks

lemon

rosemary

litsea

The researchers tested each oil against five different pathogens responsible for causing skin infections. One of the pathogens they studied was Staphylococcus epidermidis, which is one of several bacteria that cause acne.

Of the three oils studied, lemon essential oil was the least effective at inhibiting the different pathogens. Litsea essential oil showed the most significant antimicrobial activity overall.

Is it safe? 

Lemons contain citric acid. This is the chemical that gives lemons their strong, sour taste. It can also cause reactions if a person applies it directly on their skin.

Some potential risks of using lemons on the skin include:

burning or stinging sensation

excessive dryness

redness

itchiness

increased skin sensitivity to sunlight

How to use it

People should consult a dermatologist before using lemon as an acne treatment. A dermatologist will determine whether lemon is suitable for a person’s skin type.

People who go ahead with the treatment should not apply lemon juice directly on to their skin, as this can result in skin irritation. They should always dilute the juice in water first. A person’s dermatologist will be able to recommend the appropriate juice-to-water ratio.

Fresh lemon juice may be better than store-bought, as it will not contain added sugars or other ingredients.

Will it help acne scars?  

It is not clear whether lemon products have any effect on acne scarring, specifically. However, the results of a 2016 animal studyTrusted Source suggest that lemon oil may assist wound-healing more generally.

The study investigated the effects of lemon oil on rabbits infected with mange. The researchers found that topical applications of lemon oil helped speed up the healing of smaller skin wounds.

It is not clear whether these effects apply to humans or other skin wounds.

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Alternative options

Several treatments are available for acne. Some are available over the counter, while others are available by prescription only.

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Some common treatments include:

topical creams and ointments that contain benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics or salicylic acid

birth control pills

antibiotic pills

If a person’s acne is severe, a doctor may recommend one of the following procedures:

light or laser therapies

chemical peels

A person can also talk to their doctor or dermatologist about natural treatments they can try at home. These healthcare professionals will be able to recommend treatments that are suitable for a person’s skin type and acne type.

Tips for acne skincare

The AAD recommend the following tips for managing acne:

avoiding touching the face or other areas where acne is present

avoiding picking at acne pimples or popping acne pustules

avoiding using exfoliants, astringents, and toners, which can aggravate acne

avoiding cosmetics that clog pores

avoiding excessive sun exposure

using lukewarm water to cleanse the skin

washing acne-prone areas as soon as possible after sweating

shampooing oily hair daily

Summary

Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that can have a bacterial cause.

Lemon contains compounds that appear to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria in a laboratory setting. These compounds also appear to reduce inflammation in animal studies. Despite these promising findings, scientists have yet to directly investigate lemon as a treatment for acne.

A person should consult their doctor or dermatologist before trying lemon oil or lemon juice as an acne treatment. Applying lemon topically can irritate the skin, which may aggravate existing acne.

Citrus fruit extracts are often included in skin care products due to their antioxidant content. Generally speaking, antioxidants — such as the vitamin C in citrus fruits — are thought to help fight free radicals in the skin and also help boost collagen levels.

If you’re treating acne, you might be wondering if plain lemon juice can be more effective than an over-the-counter (OTC) combination product.

The Skin Doctor: LEMON TRICK | Kandee Johnson

Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States. While it may first show up during puberty, acne affects many people well into adulthood.

The juices from fresh lemons are one of the many home remedies touted in online forums. This is due to their high level of antioxidants, as well as natural levels of citric acid, a form of vitamin C.

However, applying lemon or lemon juice to your face can have side effects that further damage your skin. Consider the alternative treatments in this article, such as aloe vera, rosehip oil, and zinc. Read on to learn more.

Lemon juice for acne

For acne, lemon juice is purportedly said to offer:

reduced oil (sebum) due to the drying effects of citric acid

antiseptic qualities, which may kill bacteria that lead to acne, such as P. acnes

reduced redness and inflammation that may help treat inflammatory acne as well as leftover scars

These benefits are attributed to the antioxidant and antibacterial effects of topical vitamin C. However, vitamin C hasn’t been studied for the treatment of acne as extensively as other vitamins, such as zinc and vitamin A (retinoids).

Much of the claimed benefits of lemon juice for acne treatment is found anecdotally in online forums and in blogs.

Side effects of applying lemon to the skin

If you’ve ever taken a bite out of a lemon, you know how strong this citrus fruit tastes. Its effects on the skin can also be powerful, leading to potential side effects. These include:

dryness

burning

stinging

itching

redness

killing good bacteria

Your risk for these side effects may be greater if you use lemon juice on your skin every day.

This acne treatment method may also not be the best option for darker skin tones because the citrus fruit can lead to hyperpigmentation. Lemon juice can also increase your risk of sunburn and sunspots, regardless of your skin tone.

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Lemon for acne scarring

Acne scars develop from blemishes, and they can last for several months to even years if you don’t treat them.

You’re also at a higher risk of getting acne scars if you pick at your skin or pop your pimples. People with darker skin tones also tend to be at a higher risk for hyperpigmentation from acne scarring, according to a 2010 review published by the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic DermatologyTrusted Source.

Evidence supporting lemons as an effective acne scar treatment is minimal. As with the purported benefits of acne treatment from lemon juice, there are a lot of anecdotal discussions on the internet about the positive effects of lemons for acne scars.

Still, there’s no scientific proof that this is the case.

If you’re thinking about using lemons to treat acne scars at home, ask your dermatologist first. They can give you some tips and also discuss any individual risk factors, such as a history of hyperpigmentation.

Your dermatologist may alternatively suggest in-office chemical peels or dermabrasion treatments, which are widely studied options for scars.

How to apply lemon juice

Lemon juice is best used as either an astringent or a spot treatment.

To use as an astringent, combine fresh lemon juice with equal parts water. You can use this method two to three times per day before applying your moisturizer. This method may also be used for the treatment of acne scars, though you may not see significant results on this end.

If you’re using lemon juice as a spot treatment to get rid of breakouts, apply it carefully to your pimples with a cotton swab. Leave on for a few seconds and rinse your face with lukewarm water. Repeat a few times a day as needed on a short-term basis until your blemishes disappear.

It’s best to use fresh-squeezed lemon juice rather than store-bought versions that have added sugars and preservatives. Simply squeeze several lemons in a glass container. Store in the fridge for up to a few days.

Alternative treatments

If you’re looking for other home remedies for acne or acne scars, talk to your dermatologist about the following options:

I Applied Lemon On My Face For A Week & Here's What Happened

aloe vera

eucalyptus

green tea

lysine

rosehip oil

sulfur

tea tree oil

witch hazel

zinc

Takeaway

While lemon juice may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that could fight acne, not enough is known about the potential dangers to the skin.

Also, like many other home remedies for acne and acne scars, there’s not a wide breadth of scientific evidence to support lemons as a viable treatment option.

However, lemon juice may still hold some promise when used for the occasional breakout. As always, it’s best to see your dermatologist for stubborn breakouts and for treatment options to help heal acne scars.

As a rich source of vitamin C and citric acid, lemons are known for their detoxifying effects, especially when you add a few freshly cut wedges to your drinking water.

Because of the health benefits of eating lemons, there’s a growing popularity for using lemons as a natural treatment for skin conditions like age spots and acne.

However, using lemons on your face can cause more damage to your skin than good. Here, we weigh the risks and benefits of lemon juice on the skin.

Possible benefits of using lemon on your skin

The purported benefits of using lemon on your skin have to do with the natural acidity of this citrus fruit, as well as its vitamin C content. Lemons are sometimes used for:

Acne treatment

Lemon juice has astringent qualities due to its acidic level. Ingredients with a low pH level like lemons can help decrease inflammation and oil that may contribute to the formation of acne.

Furthermore, citric acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), can help break down dead skin cells that lead to noninflammatory forms of acne like blackheads.

Antimicrobial effects

Lemons also have antimicrobial effects, which may help tame Propionibacterium acnes bacteria that lead to inflammatory acne.

At the same time, lemon also has antifungal effects, which may help treat Candida rashes as well as scalp fungus that sometimes occurs with seborrheic dermatitis.

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Skin or hair lightening

Citrus ingredients like lemon may also work well on lightening age spots or acne scars, as well as any hair on your face.

Psoriasis and dandruff treatment

Since lemon juice can get rid of dead skin cells, the theory is that it might also alleviate skin patches attributed to psoriasis and dandruff.

The sloughing-off effects are attributed to lemon’s natural levels of citric acid, as AHAs have exfoliating effects on the skin.

Increased collagen

Some proponents of using lemon on the skin say that the citrus fruit is a natural method of increasing collagen in your face.

Collagen itself is a protein that naturally breaks down with age, which can then result in fine lines and wrinkles.

As an antioxidant, vitamin C may help prevent free radicals that can damage collagen, leaving you with smoother skin.

Side effects of and precautions for using lemon on your face

Lemon tends to have more side effects than benefits for the skin, making this a risky DIY option for home skin care. The risks can also be greater if you have sensitive skin or you expose your face to the sun after applying lemon.

Skin irritation

Skin irritation is the most common side effect from using fruit acids. Lemon is extremely acidic, which can irritate your skin.

You might experience excessive dryness, redness, and peeling of your skin. These effects can be worse if you have sensitive skin. As a rule of thumb, people with sensitive skin ought to stay away from topical lemon applications.

Phytophotodermatitis

Phytophotodermatitis is a type of skin reaction to citrus fruits, as well as other culprits such as parsley, celery, and carrot plants.

When you have citrus substances on your skin and your skin is then exposed to UV rays, an inflammatory reaction may occur. This can result in symptoms like redness, swelling, and blistering.

Leukoderma

Leukoderma, also known as vitiligo, occurs when your skin is lightened due to a loss of melanin, the substance responsible for creating your natural skin color.

While some people use lemon on the skin to lighten dark spots, large, widespread white leukoderma spots may develop instead.

Sunburn

Citrus fruits applied topically can also increase your risk of sunburn. Never apply lemon before going outside in direct sunlight, and don’t use it for several days before any planned outdoor activities.

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Can you put lemon on your face every day?

If you decide to try out fresh lemon as a face treatment, you may start with once-a-day applications. Ideally, you would discontinue using lemon once you see improvements in your complexion.

You shouldn’t use lemon if you know you’re going to be out in the sun, as doing so can increase your risk of sunburn and other side effects.

WERBUNG

Can you leave lemon on your face overnight?

Lemon is highly acidic, and it may be difficult to catch any side effects that start to develop overnight. It’s best to start out using the product during the daytime when you can monitor your skin.

Also, leaving lemon on your face overnight isn’t a good option if you have sensitive skin.

How to use lemon on the face safely

When applying lemon directly to your face, you’ll want to treat the fruit like you would any new skin care product. Due to its potency and potential side effects, lemon ought to be used as a spot treatment only.

Do a patch test on an area of skin away from your face, such as the inside of your elbow. Wait one to two days to ensure that no side effects develop before proceeding with using lemon on your face.

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 one daily application, potentially working your way up to twice a day.

Discontinue use if you have side effects.

Other remedies to treat facial skin

Due to the risks involved with applying lemon on your face, you’re better off using other remedies that are known to help the skin without hurting it. Talk to a dermatologist about the following:

aloe

coconut oil

lavender oil

lemon essential oil (diluted first with a carrier oil)

tea tree oil (diluted first with a carrier oil)

turmeric

yogurt

The takeaway

While the allure of using all-natural lemons on your face can be appealing, only small amounts are safe as an occasional spot treatment — if your skin can tolerate the citrus fruit to begin with.

If you’re still wanting to use lemon, consider using over-the-counter products that contain extracts of the fruit instead so you still benefit from AHAs and vitamin C.

You can also see a dermatologist for treating any specific skin conditions. They will know which treatments are safe for your skin, along with which ones you ought to avoid.

Lemons are high in vitamin C, fiber, and various beneficial plant compounds.

These nutrients are responsible for several health benefits.

In fact, lemons may support heart health, weight control, and digestive health.

Here are 6 evidence-based health benefits of lemons.

1. Support Heart Health

Lemons are a good source of vitamin C.

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One lemon provides about 31 mg of vitamin C, which is 51% of the reference daily intake (RDI).

Research shows that eating fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C reduces your risk of heart disease and stroke (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source).

However, it’s not only the vitamin C that is thought to be good for your heart. The fiber and plant compounds in lemons could also significantly lower some risk factors for heart disease (4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source).

For instance, one study revealed that eating 24 grams of citrus fiber extract daily for a month reduced total blood cholesterol levels (6).

Plant compounds found in lemons — namely hesperidin and diosmin — have also been found to lower cholesterol (7Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source, 9).

SUMMARY

Lemons are high in heart-healthy vitamin C

and several beneficial plant compounds that may lower cholesterol.

2. Help Control Weight

Lemons are often promoted as a weight loss food, and there are a few theories as to why this is.

One common theory is that the soluble pectin fiber in them expands in your stomach, helping you feel full for longer.

That said, not many people eat lemons whole. And because lemon juice contains no pectin, lemon juice drinks will not promote fullness in the same way.

Another theory suggests that drinking hot water with lemon will help you lose weight.

However, drinking water is known to temporarily increase the number of calories you burn, so it may be the water itself that is helping with weight loss — not the lemon (10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source).

Other theories suggest that the plant compounds in lemons may aid weight loss.

Research shows that plant compounds in lemon extracts may help prevent or reduce weight gain in a number of ways (12Trusted Source, 13Trusted Source).

In one study, mice on a fattening diet were given lemon polyphenols extracted from the peel. They gained less weight and body fat than other mice (14Trusted Source).

However, no studies confirm the weight loss effects of lemon compounds in humans.

SUMMARY

Animal studies show that lemon extract and

plant compounds may promote weight loss, but the effects in humans are unknown.

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NATURALLY FADE ACNE SCARS with LEMON! How To Use Lemon For Scarring & Dark Spots

3. Prevent Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are small lumps that form when waste products crystallize and build up in your kidneys.

They are quite common, and people who get them often get them repeatedly.

Citric acid may help prevent kidney stones by increasing urine volume and increasing urine pH, creating a less favorable environment for kidney stone formation (15Trusted Source, 16Trusted Source).

Just a 1/2-cup (4 ounces or 125 ml) of lemon juice per day may provide enough citric acid to help prevent stone formation in people who have already had them (17Trusted Source, 18Trusted Source).

Some studies also found that lemonade effectively prevented kidney stones, but the results have been mixed. Other studies have shown no effect (19Trusted Source, 20Trusted Source, 21Trusted Source, 22Trusted Source).

Therefore, more well-conducted studies need to examine whether lemon juice affects kidney stone formation (23Trusted Source, 24Trusted Source, 25Trusted Source).

SUMMARY

Lemon juice may help prevent

kidney stones. However, more quality research is needed.

4. Protect Against Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia is quite common. It occurs when you don’t get enough iron from the foods you eat.

Lemons contain some iron, but they primarily prevent anemia by improving your absorption of iron from plant foods (26Trusted Source, 27Trusted Source).

Your gut absorbs iron from meat, chicken, and fish (known as heme iron) very easily, while iron from plant sources (non-heme iron) not as easily. However, this absorption can be improved by consuming vitamin C and citric acid.

Because lemons contain both vitamin C and citric acid, they may protect against anemia by ensuring that you absorb as much iron as possible from your diet.

SUMMARY

Lemons contain vitamin C and

citric acid, which help you absorb non-heme iron from plants. This may prevent

anemia.

10 Ways To Use Lemon Juice For Dark Spots Treatment

5. Reduce Cancer Risk

A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help prevent some cancers (28Trusted Source).

Some observational studies have found that people who eat the most citrus fruit have a lower risk of cancer, while other studies have found no effects (29Trusted Source, 30Trusted Source, 31Trusted Source).

In test-tube studies, many compounds from lemons have killed cancer cells. However, they may not have the same effect on the human body (32Trusted Source, 33Trusted Source, 34Trusted Source).

Some researchers think that plant compounds found in lemons — such as limonene and naringenin — could have anticancer effects, but this hypothesis needs further investigation (5Trusted Source, 35Trusted Source, 36Trusted Source, 37Trusted Source).

Animal studies indicate that D-limonene, a compound found in lemon oil, does have anticancer properties (38Trusted Source, 39Trusted Source).

Another study used pulp from mandarins that contained the plant compounds beta-cryptoxanthin and hesperidin, which are also found in lemons.

The study discovered that these compounds prevented malignant tumors from developing in the tongues, lungs, and colons of rodents (40Trusted Source).

However, it should be noted that the research team used a very high dose of the chemicals — far more than you would get by eating lemons or oranges.

While some plant compounds from lemons and other citrus fruits may have anticancer potential, no quality evidence suggests that lemons can fight cancer in humans.

SUMMARY

Some plant chemicals found in

lemons have been shown to prevent cancer in animal studies. However, human

studies are needed.

6. Improve Digestive Health

Lemons are made up of about 10% carbs, mostly in the form of soluble fiber and simple sugars.

The main fiber in lemons is pectin, a form of soluble fiber linked to multiple health benefits.

Soluble fiber can improve gut health and slow the digestion of sugars and starches. These effects may result in reduced blood sugar levels (41Trusted Source, 42Trusted Source, 43Trusted Source, 44Trusted Source).

However, to get the benefits of fiber from lemons, you need to eat the pulp.

People who drink lemon juice, without the fiber found in the pulp, will miss out on the benefits of the fiber.

SUMMARY The soluble fiber in lemons could help improve digestive

health. However,

you need to eat the pulp of the lemon, not just the juice.

The Bottom Line

Lemons contain a high amount of vitamin C, soluble fiber, and plant compounds that give them a number of health benefits.

Lemons may aid weight loss and reduce your risk of heart disease, anemia, kidney stones, digestive issues, and cancer.

How To Get Rid of a Pimple Overnight | Fast Pimple and Acne Treatments | Alex Costa

Not only are lemons a very healthy fruit, but they also have a distinct, pleasant taste and smell that make them a great addition to foods and drinks.

 Citrus fruit extracts are often included in skin care products due to their antioxidant content. Generally speaking, antioxidants — such as the vitamin C in citrus fruits — are thought to help fight free radicals in the skin and also help boost collagen levels.

If you’re treating acne, you might be wondering if plain lemon juice can be more effective than an over-the-counter (OTC) combination product.

Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States. While it may first show up during puberty, acne affects many people well into adulthood.

The juices from fresh lemons are one of the many home remedies touted in online forums. This is due to their high level of antioxidants, as well as natural levels of citric acid, a form of vitamin C.

However, applying lemon or lemon juice to your face can have side effects that further damage your skin. Consider the alternative treatments in this article, such as aloe vera, rosehip oil, and zinc. Read on to learn more.

Lemon juice for acne

For acne, lemon juice is purportedly said to offer:

reduced oil (sebum) due to the drying effects of citric acid

antiseptic qualities, which may kill bacteria that lead to acne, such as P. acnes

reduced redness and inflammation that may help treat inflammatory acne as well as leftover scars

These benefits are attributed to the antioxidant and antibacterial effects of topical vitamin C. However, vitamin C hasn’t been studied for the treatment of acne as extensively as other vitamins, such as zinc and vitamin A (retinoids).

Much of the claimed benefits of lemon juice for acne treatment is found anecdotally in online forums and in blogs.

Side effects of applying lemon to the skin

If you’ve ever taken a bite out of a lemon, you know how strong this citrus fruit tastes. Its effects on the skin can also be powerful, leading to potential side effects. These include:

dryness

burning

stinging

itching

redness

killing good bacteria

Your risk for these side effects may be greater if you use lemon juice on your skin every day.

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This acne treatment method may also not be the best option for darker skin tones because the citrus fruit can lead to hyperpigmentation. Lemon juice can also increase your risk of sunburn and sunspots, regardless of your skin tone.

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Lemon for acne scarring

Acne scars develop from blemishes, and they can last for several months to even years if you don’t treat them.

You’re also at a higher risk of getting acne scars if you pick at your skin or pop your pimples. People with darker skin tones also tend to be at a higher risk for hyperpigmentation from acne scarring, according to a 2010 review published by the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic DermatologyTrusted Source.

Evidence supporting lemons as an effective acne scar treatment is minimal. As with the purported benefits of acne treatment from lemon juice, there are a lot of anecdotal discussions on the internet about the positive effects of lemons for acne scars.

Still, there’s no scientific proof that this is the case.

If you’re thinking about using lemons to treat acne scars at home, ask your dermatologist first. They can give you some tips and also discuss any individual risk factors, such as a history of hyperpigmentation.

Your dermatologist may alternatively suggest in-office chemical peels or dermabrasion treatments, which are widely studied options for scars.

WERBUNG

Can Lemon remove pimples?

How to apply lemon juice

Lemon juice is best used as either an astringent or a spot treatment.

To use as an astringent, combine fresh lemon juice with equal parts water. You can use this method two to three times per day before applying your moisturizer. This method may also be used for the treatment of acne scars, though you may not see significant results on this end.

If you’re using lemon juice as a spot treatment to get rid of breakouts, apply it carefully to your pimples with a cotton swab. Leave on for a few seconds and rinse your face with lukewarm water. Repeat a few times a day as needed on a short-term basis until your blemishes disappear.

It’s best to use fresh-squeezed lemon juice rather than store-bought versions that have added sugars and preservatives. Simply squeeze several lemons in a glass container. Store in the fridge for up to a few days.

Alternative treatments

If you’re looking for other home remedies for acne or acne scars, talk to your dermatologist about the following options:

Can Lemon remove pimples?

aloe vera

eucalyptus

green tea

lysine

rosehip oil

sulfur

tea tree oil

witch hazel

zinc

Takeaway

While lemon juice may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that could fight acne, not enough is known about the potential dangers to the skin.

Also, like many other home remedies for acne and acne scars, there’s not a wide breadth of scientific evidence to support lemons as a viable treatment option.

However, lemon juice may still hold some promise when used for the occasional breakout. As always, it’s best to see your dermatologist for stubborn breakouts and for treatment options to help heal acne scars.