Lemons may have a sour taste, but their benefits to the skin are incredibly sweet. This bright yellow-colored fruit is chock-full of vitamins and antioxidants, and has anti-inflammatory qualities. While the fruit was originally used for decoration and in medicine, it’s now commonly utilized for flavor in cooking and in skincare products and treatments. However, it’s important to note that while the versatile fruit can be beneficial to the skin, it can also have negative effects if not used properly. Always consult an esthetician before using a lemon product, and never put lemon juice directly on the skin.
Discover the benefits of lemon-based products and treatments on the skin.
“Lemon has a multitude of benefits, whether taken in food or applied topically. It is rich in vitamin C to brighten hyperpigmentation and boost collagen and citric acid to exfoliate. It also has purifying properties, so you can get a lot of benefits from a single ingredient.” —Dorothea Fenech, training director, Guinot
“Ingredients, such as lemon extract, can be used for a multiplicity of benefits, including being beneficial to the appearance of the skin, as well as enhancing sensorial experiences through aromatherapy. Lemon extract is rich in ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, and polysaccharides, and is a rich source of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant. It also contains vitamins A and B12. It has been found to provide antioxidant and exfoliation benefits, and has also been noted for its astringent properties to help reduce the appearance of oil on the skin.”—Lydia Sarfati, CEO and founder, Repêchage
“Lemon has brightening, cell regenerating, hydrating, and toning effects. It refreshes and rejuvenates the skin, and increases its resiliency. It is also beneficial for oily, seborrheic skin, and skin prone to acne. The health benefits of lemon oil can be attributed to its stimulating, carminative, anti-infection, astringent, detoxifying, antiseptic, disinfectant, and antifungal properties.”—Szilvia Hickman, owner of Szép Élet, distributor of Ilike Organic Skin Care