The Tiny Citrus Fruit With Big Beauty Superpowers You probably have lemons on-hand in your kitchen to add zest to your favorite meals. But did you know that this citrus fruit is good for your skin and hair, too? Packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, the juice from fresh lemons can do everything from help fade dark spots to remove product buildup from your scalp. Here are five easy DIY recipes to address your most pressing beauty problems. Proceed With Caution It is crucial to note that lemon and lime juice can cause irritation and stinging, and should never be used on open sores or skin. Lemons contain a chemical called psoralen, which bonds with the skin and makes it extremely sensitive to the sun so you should avoid sun exposure for 24 hours after using any of these at-home treatments because that’s how long psoralen stays on the skin. Additionally, you should always dilute lemon juice with water — two parts water to one part lemon juice — to avoid irritation. And if you have sensitive, dry, or cracked skin, you should skip any DIY treatments using lemon juice. You should also avoid using lemons to address any thin-skinned areas such as the lips. Egg White and Oatmeal Mask for Dark Spots Whip up this face mask to help lighten mild hyperpigmentation: Mix together the juice from half a lemon (diluted with water), a half tablespoon almond oil, 2 tablespoons oatmeal, and an egg white. Leave the mixture on for 15 minutes, then rinse. The citric acid in the lemon is what makes spots fade. Keep in mind, though, that even laser [treatment] and hydroquinone are temporary fixes and the second you go back in the sun your pigment will return.The best solution for unwanted pigment is a hat and sunscreen. Sugar Scrub for Flaky Skin Exfoliators are a popular way to smooth rough patches of skin. Mix the juice from one lemon (diluted with water) with approximately a cup of sugar for a refreshing scrub that will leave your face and body feeling softer. Lemon contains a natural alpha hydroxy acid [AHA], which removes dead skin cells. Massage the scrub in circular motions for the best results. While citric acid, the AHA found in lemons, is generally safe for most skin types, you should avoid using it if you’ve got a condition like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis, as it may cause irritation. Lemon Rinse for Dandruff Like apple cider vinegar, lemon juice can be effective at getting rid of flakes caused by product buildup, dry skin, or dandruff thanks to its acidity, which helps balance your scalp’s pH levels. To use, dilute one teaspoon of lemon juice with one cup water, then massage the mixture into your scalp and rinse off after two minutes. If you leave it on longer or in direct sunlight while it’s left in your hair, it may cause your hair to lighten in color. Cucumber and Olive Oil Soak for Tired Feet After a long day in heels or boots, soak toes in this soothing solution. Blend one peeled lemon, two whole cucumbers, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil until pureed, transfer to a bowl, and microwave until warm. Divide the mixture in half and put it into two separate Ziploc bags. Slide your feet into each bag, rubbing the mask until each foot is fully soaked. Leave on for five to 10 minutes and then rinse with water. The lemon not only helps exfoliate but is extra refreshing and reviving for tired toes.And the cucumber firms up and tightens skin while the olive oil deeply moisturizes for super softness. Green Juice With Lemon for Wrinkles Lemons help fight free radicals that cause fine lines; they also cleanse your kidneys and liver and strengthen your immune system. So, add a squeeze of lemon to your favorite green juice recipe for an additional beauty and health boost. I love an all-greens juice with romaine, celery, cucumber, spinach, parsley, kale, and apple with a dash of lemon and ginger. A green juice instantly hydrates the skin while encouraging lymphatic drainage, so you are de-puffed and glowing.
Posted on: Mon, 15 Dec 2014 19:35:09 +0000
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