Lemon juice is a natural product that comes from citrus fruits. It contains citric acid, vitamin C, and flavonoids. These three components help to cleanse pores, boost collagen production, and reduce inflammation. But did you know that using lemon juice on your face can actually cause acne?
No doubt, lemon juice is a natural astringent and cleanser. It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. It is also known to help reduce acne breakouts and clear pores, but if you have ever tried using lemon juice on your face, you may have noticed that it makes your skin break out.
Lemon juice for your face: Why does lemon juice make your skin break out?
Contains citric acid
Citric acid is a natural exfoliant. It helps remove dead skin cells which causes your pores to open up. When your pores are open, they become clogged with oil and bacteria, causing pimples and blackheads. However, if you use lemon juice regularly, you may end up stripping away your skin’s natural oils. Over time, this could lead to dryness and irritation.
Can dry out your skin
When you apply lemon juice directly to your skin, it dries out your pores and causes them to clog. When you have clogged pores, bacteria can get trapped inside of them and cause pimples. If you’re prone to acne, avoid applying lemon juice to your face. Instead, use it as a facial scrub.
Lemon juice can irritate your eyes
If you’re sensitive to citrus scents, lemon juice may make your eyes water and itch. To prevent this, dilute lemon juice with water before applying it to your face. Lemon juice can cause blemishes. Applying lemon juice directly to your face can clog pores and lead to pimples. Try using a gentle cleanser like Neutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Spot Treatment.
Can ruin makeup
Lemon juice can remove your foundation and concealer, leaving behind white streaks. If you’re wearing makeup, don’t apply lemon juice to your face until after you’ve applied your makeup.
Lemon juice can burn your lips
Applying lemon juice to your lips can sting and burn them. If you do this regularly, you could end up with chapped lips.
Lemon juice can cause rashes
Lemon juice contains citric acid and can irritate your skin if you rub it into your arms, legs, and back. If you’re allergic to citrus fruits, you should avoid applying lemon juice to these places.
Redness
Lemon juice contains vitamin C, which is great for your immune system. But if you have sensitive skin, using lemon juice on your face could cause redness and inflammation.
Quickly, let’s talk about the health benefits of lemon juice
Lemon juice contains citric acid, vitamin C, flavonoids, and bioflavonoids. These compounds help prevent cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. It also helps boost the immune system and fight infections.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that prevents free radicals from damaging cells. Free radicals cause damage to DNA and can lead to cancer. Vitamin C is also involved in collagen formation and wound healing.
Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are antioxidants that protect the body from free radical damage. They have been shown to reduce inflammation and may even help treat arthritis.
Citric Acid
Citric acid is a natural preservative that inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi. It is often added to foods to preserve them.
Flavanoids
Flavanoids are antioxidants that act as anti-inflammatory agents and may help lower cholesterol levels. They also help maintain blood pressure and strengthen capillaries.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are chemicals that inhibit oxidation reactions. Oxidation reactions occur naturally in the body and can cause damage to cells. Antioxidants help prevent these harmful reactions from occurring.
Collagen
Collagen is a protein that gives structure to connective tissue and provides elasticity to the skin. It is also responsible for maintaining bone density.
Nutrition Facts
A cup of lemon juice provides about 90 calories, 2 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat, and 5 milligrams of sodium. It also contains vitamins A and B-complex, folate, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, niacin, thiamine, and biotin.
Lemon juice as a substitute for your skin
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural cleanser that removes dirt and grime from the skin. It also reduces inflammation and heals wounds. You can use this instead of applying lemon juice directly on your face.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which is an antimicrobial agent that fights infections. It also has a high content of vitamin E, which promotes healing and prevents scarring. Coconut oil is high in lauric acid, which helps fight bacteria and viruses. It is also rich in vitamin E, which is great for dry skin.
Milk
Milk is rich in vitamin B12, which promotes healthy hair and nails. To use milk as a facial scrub, mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of honey. Massage it onto your face and rinse.
Salt Water
Saltwater is a great alternative to using harsh chemicals to wash off makeup. It is also antibacterial and can be used to treat sunburned skin.
Tips on how to use lemon juice
The best way to apply lemon juice to the skin is to mix it with water and then gently massage it onto the affected area. You should avoid applying lemon juice directly to the eyes or lips, however, as it may sting.
You can also make a homemade facial mask using lemon juice and honey. Mix equal parts of each together until they are thoroughly combined, then spread it over your face and leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing off.
Conclusion
Lemon juice is a natural cleanser and toner for the skin. It contains citric acid, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it a great ingredient for acne treatment. However, lemon juice should not be applied directly to the face. When applying lemon juice to the face, it can cause irritation and dryness.
If you want to use lemon juice on your face, make sure to dilute it first. You can mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with 2 tablespoons of water. Then apply it to your face using a cotton ball. Afterward, wash off any residue with warm water.
