The benefits of lemon for facial health and its side effects
Lemon fruit has a characteristic yellow color on the skin. Lemon is rich in vitamin C and is commonly consumed in various processed foods and beverages. The vitamin C content of lemons reaches 54 milligrams, according todata from foodData Central by the United States Department of Agriculture. Vitamin C in lemon contains several health benefits when consumed. A study by Anitra C. Carr and Silvia Maggini inthe magazine Nutrients for examplethe contribution vitamin C for the immune system by supporting various cellular functions.
Besides being eaten, lemons can also be usedlike facial. Astudy published in the “Journal of Endourology” explains the citric acid content of48 g/l in lemons. When applied to the skin, citric acid exfoliates the top layer of the skinand regenerates dead skin cells. Citric acid also promotes new skin growth, which can help age spots, acne scars, reduce fine wrinkles, and areas of uneven skin tone and texture.
Read also: Benefits of vitamin A to maintain body health
The lemon can be used for the face. However, lemon should not be applied to facial skin at night. Before using lemon for face, pay attention to the following:
- Always do a patch test by applying lemon to a small area of ​​facial skin that is more sensitive or has acne.
- Dilute the lemon juice with plain water or rose water if you have sensitive skin.
- Do not expose your skin to the sun after applying lemon.
- Always use fresh lemon juice, as the concentration of vitamin C in lemons decreases over time.
Benefits of lemon for the face
Some benefits of lemon for face areas following :
1. Treat Acne
According to Dr. Surbhi, MD, lemon can be used to treat acne. Lemon juice works by reducing the secretion of oil and bacteria that cause acne. However, never make the mistake of applying lemon directly to a pimple as it can cause irritation.
To treat acne, dissolve a few drops of lemon juice in water. Apply it on the pimple for a few minutes then rinse with lukewarm water. You can also make a toner by mixing one milliliter of lemon juice with 100ml of rose water to make a toner.
Toners can be refrigerated up to aweek being maintained. Regularly apply toner to acne prone face using cotton ball.
2. Overcome black spots on face
Brown spots can be causedby scars acne, overexposure to the sun or hormonal changes, according to David E. Bank, MD on healthline.com. Lemon can help overcome black spots on face.
The citric acid in lemons has been clinically proven to improve hyperpigmentation and dark spots on the face. It is important to remember that citric acid also makes the skin more sensitive to light, which is why daily use of sunscreen is very important.
3. Reduce oil on face
Acid contentcitric lemons acts as an astringent that helps cleanse the skin, shrink pores and dry out oil.
To use as an astringent, mix fresh lemon juice and water in equal proportions. Use it two to three times perday to apply a creammoisturizing.
4. Illuminate the face
Lemon is rich in vitamin C. In the “Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Vol.24 “Born. 2”, vitamin C is helpful in lightening the face byshaping melatonin and fade dark spots.
Vitamin C also blocks the action of the enzyme tyrosinase which works to form the pigment melanin. Applying vitamin C to the skinwould mitigate slowly deposits hyperpigmentation, provided the skin is also protected from the sun with sunscreen or a hat.
5. Prevent premature aging
The vitamin C content of lemons also serves to prevent premature aging. According to the “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology”, vitamin C can improve the signs of premature aging, keeping the skin elastic, radiant and smooth.
Vitamin C is also beneficial for the face thanks tothe collagen synthesis, which decreases with age. Collagen helps skin cells renew and repair themselves.
Side effects of using thelemon for face effects In addition to using lemon for the face
The use of lemon for the face must be taken into account because there are several side effects. Healthline report, here are the side effects of using lemon for the face.
1. Skin irritation
Skin irritation is the most common side effect of using lemon as its acid content can irritate the skin. The acids in lemons can cause excessive dryness, redness and flaking of the skin.
This effect may be worse if you have sensitive skin. As a general rule, people with sensitive skin should avoid direct application of lemon.
2. Phytophotodermatitis
Phytophotodermatitis is a type of skin reaction to certain plants. This condition usually occurs during outdoor activities, so there is contact with the sun after applying lemon to the face.
The resulting reaction can cause symptoms such as redness, swelling and blistering.
3. Leucodermie
Leucoderma, also known as vitiligo, occurs when the skin becomes lightened due to the loss of melanin, the substance responsible for skin color.
When you use lemon on the face, the area of ​​the face famous for its spread becomes shiny but uneven. As a result, leucoderma occurs and spreads.
4. Sunburn
Topically applied lemons may also increase the risk of sunburn. Do not apply lemons before going out in direct sunlight or use them a few days before a planned outdoor activity.
