Age is not the only reason you develop dark spots on your skin. Exposure to sunlight, pollutants, or hormonal imbalances can also cause dark spots. You might try some lemon juice for your dark spots. It is high in vitamin C and antioxidants which may be effective in treating hyperpigmentation. In this article, we will delve into some natural ways to use lemon juice to get rid of those dark spots.
How is Lemon Juice Effective in Removing Dark Spots?
Our skin produces melanin, the pigment responsible for its distinct color. This pigment is produced in excess due to certain factors, resulting in pigmentation and dark spots. Other factors like hormonal imbalance, vitamin/mineral deficiencies, gastrointestinal disorders, and stress can also cause dark spots.
Lemon juice is a natural ingredient that can help lighten dark spots when used alone or mixed with other ingredients. The juice has bleaching properties similar to other OTC products. Its natural acidity makes it act as an organic bleaching agent, gradually reducing dark/brown spots.
The vitamin C in lemon juice works by inhibiting melanin production (also known as melanogenesis). This nutrient is often used to treat skin hyperpigmentation and age spots.
Lemon also acts as an astringent, antioxidant, and antimicrobial agent. In the following section, we discuss some natural home remedies that use lemon to help treat dark spots.
Note: According to actual evidence, excessive use of lemon can dry out your skin. Therefore, perform a patch test on your elbow before using it on your face. If you experience itching or skin irritation after a few hours, do not proceed with these remedies. Additionally, lemon juice can make your skin sensitive. So, always apply sunscreen before going outside. These tips and tricks are for your information.
Natural Ways to Use Lemon Juice to Reduce Dark Spots
- Turmeric and Lemon Juice
Turmeric can brighten your complexion. A study found that the topical application of a moisturizing cream containing turmeric extract reduced the appearance of spots and wrinkles on human facial skin.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
How to Use? Step 1. Mix all the ingredients to obtain a thin paste. Step 2. Apply the paste to the affected areas and let it dry for about 10 minutes. Step 3. Wash your face with lukewarm water.
Use this pack 2-3 times a week.
- Coconut Oil and Lemon Juice
The antioxidants in coconut oil reduce skin damage caused by sun and pollution. Coconut oil also protects the skin from UV radiation and improves the skin’s barrier function. The oil also moisturizes and hydrates the skin.
Ingredients
- 2-3 drops of coconut oil
- 2-3 drops of lemon juice
How to Use? Step 1. Mix both ingredients and massage the affected area with this mixture. Step 2. Let it sit for 20-25 minutes. Step 3. You can either wash it off with lukewarm water or use a soft napkin soaked in warm water to clean it.
Repeat this 2-3 times a week.
- Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Juice
Apple cider vinegar is believed to have toning and exfoliating properties. They can help remove cells on the skin surface, lightening dark spots.
Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon water
- Cotton ball
How to Use? Step 1. Mix apple cider vinegar and lemon juice with water. Step 2. Dip a cotton ball in this liquid mixture and apply it to the dark spots. Step 3. Leave it on for 8-10 minutes and then wash it off.
Do this 1-2 times a week until the dark spots fade.
- Cucumber and Lemon Juice
Cucumbers contain antioxidants and silica that help lighten dark spots gradually. The fruit can also rejuvenate your skin.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon cucumber juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
How to Use? Step 1. Extract fresh cucumber juice and mix it with lemon juice and honey. Mix well. Step 2. Apply this mixture to the dark spots and leave it on for 10 minutes. Step 3. Wash it off with water.
Do this 1-2 times a day.
- Tomato Juice and Lemon Juice
Tomatoes contain lycopene and beta-carotene, antioxidants known to protect the skin from sun damage.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon tomato juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
How to Use? Step 1. Mix both juices and apply the mixture to the dark spots. Step 2. Leave it on for 10 minutes. Step 3. Wash it off with water. Step 4. Pat dry and apply a suitable moisturizer.
Do this once daily.
