Few things are worse than acne scars. You already had to deal with a pimple. Now there’s a souvenir, too? Hyperpigmentation can be embarrassing. It also takes ages to fade, but with lemon juice, you can speed up the process.
Hyperpigmentation develops as the scar heals. Melanin, the pigment that colors your skin, builds up in excess. The result is a spot that’s a few shades darker.1 While commercial products claim to lighten skin, many use a harsh chemical called hydroquinone. However, lemon juice is sweet and simple and has zero chemicals! You can even combine it with other natural ingredients for additional skin benefits.
5 Ways To Use Lemon Juice For Acne Scars
1. Lemon Juice Spot Treatment
Lemon juice can be used on its own. But, it’s pretty strong, so do a spot test first. For some, lemon juice may cause redness, irritation, and dryness.
- Juice one fresh lemon.
- Using a cotton ball, apply to the acne scars.
- After 5 minutes, rinse off and pat dry.
- If you have sensitive skin, dilute with an equal amount of water or skip this remedy.
2. Lemon Juice And Green Tea
According to a 2011 study, green tea lightens hyperpigmentation.2 It also reduces future breakouts by decreasing excess oil and killing acne-causing bacteria.3
- Brew 1 cup of strong green tea.
- Let it cool to room temperature.
- Mix 1 teaspoon each of green tea and lemon juice.
- Apply to the scars using a cotton ball.
- After 5 minutes, wash and pat dry.
- For a gentler version, use 2 to 3 teaspoons of green tea and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
3. Lemon Juice Sugar Scrub
Sugar will scrub away dead skin cells, taking excess melanin with it. Adding lemon simply enhances the lightening effect.
- Mix 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon sugar.
- Gently scrub onto the acne scars.
- After 5 minutes, rinse off and pat dry.
4. Lemon Juice Egg White Mask
About 10 percent of egg white is made up of protein.4 This is thought to strengthen the skin, helping it heal with ease. Use it with lemon juice for a nourishing treatment.
- Carefully separate an egg white.
- Whisk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice. If you’d like, use a blender.
- Apply the mixture onto the scars.
- Leave for 20 minutes, or until dry.
- Rinse off and pat dry.
5. Lemon Juice And Papaya
A 2014 study in the Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences discovered that papaya decreases melanin. It even fights excess oil and acne-causing bacteria, thus preventing future breakouts. Plus, papaya provides hydration, which counteracts the drying effect of lemon.5
- With a fork, mash 1 bite’s worth of papaya.
- Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Mix well.
- Apply onto the acne scars.
- After 10 to 20 minutes, wash off and pat dry.
Safety Notes
- Be extra careful around the eyes. Never apply lemon juice on an active or an open pimple.
- After using a lemon juice remedy, avoid the sun to prevent irritation.
- If possible, use these remedies at night before bed.
Experiment with these treatments and see what works best for you. The scars won’t disappear overnight, but over time, they’ll lighten up. If your skin gets irritated, stop using lemon juice immediately.
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