While there are a number of other ways to treat acne, few are as cost-effective and natural as using lemon juice. This natural treatment option is safe and effective for treating acne as well as preventing acne scarring. Plus, lemons have a great fresh scent and can help in evening skin tone and reducing discolorations.
Acne is a skin condition that ranges in severity and involves the plugging or clogging of the hair follicles. Three common forms of acne exist including whiteheads, blackheads, and acne pimples. Whiteheads arise as the hair follicle becomes clogged but remains covered and unexposed to the air. Blackheads have been exposed, which causes the oil and bacteria to take on a dark, black or brown color. Pimples form as the skin becomes infected and inflamed and appear as red raised spots on the skin.
Acne in all of its forms responds well to treatment with lemon or lemon juice. The juice has natural antiseptic properties, which make it effective for treating the underlying infection associated with acne breakouts. Additionally, the natural in acids in lemon juice functions to break down the germs and bacteria that contribute to acne.
Lemon juice serves as an acne treatment in several other ways as well. The l-ascorbic acid in lemon juice is responsible for exfoliating the skin, removing dead skin cells, and treating blackheads. Likewise, the juice has astringent properties that naturally remove excess oil from the skin and prevents future breakouts. The juice can even be used to treat acne scarring from previous breakouts.
Treating acne with lemon juice is very simple. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into a bowl or other small dish. Dip a cotton swab or other facial cleansing cloth in the juice and swipe it over the skin. The juice functions as a natural cleanser and toner.
As lemon juice does have the effect of lightening the skin, some care must be taken when using this treatment option. When used in moderation, however, it successfully treats acne and prevents further acne breakouts.
Continue reading below for reviews from Earth Clinic readers who have tried the lemon juice cure for acne and let us know what you think!
