Does Lemon Whitens Underarm?

In the race for flawless underarms, many individuals turn to various home remedies and natural ingredients to achieve lighter skin. One such ingredient that often finds its way into the beauty routine is lemon. Renowned for its astringent and acidic properties, lemon has been hailed as a natural skin brightener. Lemons have skin-lightening properties due to the availability of citric acid, which can brighten the skin and combat body odor by eliminating odor-causing bacteria.

Nonetheless, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects associated with using lemons for armpit whitening. But does it truly live up to its reputation to whiten underarms? In this blog, we will delve into the effectiveness of lemons for underarm whitening and separate fact from fiction.

The Science Behind Lemon’s Skin-Lightening

Making them a popular choice for addressing various skin concerns, lemons are rich in vitamin C, citric acid, and antioxidants. The citric acid found in lemons is known to have exfoliating properties that can remove dead skin cells, revealing a brighter complexion. Additionally, vitamin C helps inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, which may contribute to lightening dark areas.

The Pros of Lemon for Underarm Whitening

Natural Exfoliation

The exfoliating properties of lemon juice can help slough off dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote skin renewal. Regular exfoliation can improve the overall appearance of the underarms, making them look brighter and smoother.

Mild Bleaching Effect

The acidic nature of lemons may have a mild bleaching effect on the skin. The citric acid can help lighten pigmentation, including armpit discoloration, over time.

Anti-bacterial Properties

Lemons possess antibacterial properties that can help combat odor-causing bacteria. This antibacterial action can contribute to fresher-smelling underarms.

The Cons and Potential Risks

Skin Sensitivity

Lemon juice is highly acidic, which can cause skin irritation, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. Applying lemon juice directly to the armpits may lead to redness, itching, or a stinging sensation. It is essential to perform a patch test before applying lemon juice to the entire underarm area.

Increased Sun Sensitivity

Lemon juice can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, potentially increasing the risk of sunburn and hyperpigmentation. It is crucial to avoid direct sun exposure after applying lemon juice to the underarms and use sunscreen when going outdoors.

Uneven Results

While some people may experience positive results with lemon juice, it is essential to note that individual outcomes may vary. Factors such as skin type, genetics, and underlying conditions can influence the effectiveness of lemon juice for armpit whitening.

How to safely use Lemon for Underarm Whitening?

If you decide to incorporate lemon juice into your underarm whitening routine, follow these guidelines to minimize potential risks:

1. Dilute Lemon Juice: Mix freshly squeezed lemon juice with an equal amount of water or rosewater to reduce its acidity. It will make it gentler on the skin while still retaining some of its beneficial properties.
2. Perform a Patch Test: Apply a small amount of diluted lemon juice to a small area of your underarm skin. Wait for 24 hours to check for adverse reactions before proceeding with regular use.
3. Limit Application Frequency: Start by applying the diluted lemon juice once or twice a week and monitor how your skin responds. If there is no irritation, gradually increase the frequency to three times a week, but avoid daily application.
4. Moisturize: After using lemon juice, it is crucial to moisturize the underarm area to prevent dryness and maintain the skin’s natural barrier. Use a gentle moisturizer suitable for your skin type.
5. Protect from the Sun: As mentioned earlier, lemon juice can increase sun sensitivity. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF to the underarms before sun exposure, especially if you have recently applied lemon juice.

Can you use Alum for Underarm Whitening?

When it comes to underarm whitening, alum can be used as a natural remedy due to its skin-lightening properties. Here’s how you can incorporate alum into your underarm care routine:

Alum Powder or Crystal Application

• Cleanse the armpits thoroughly with a mild soap or cleanser.
• Wet the alum crystal or make a paste with alum powder by mixing it with water.
• Apply the alum crystal or paste to the armpit area.
• Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
• Rinse off with water and pat dry.

Alum as a Natural Deodorant

In addition to its potential whitening effects, alum can also act as a natural deodorant by inhibiting the growth of odor-causing bacteria. To use alum as a deodorant:

• Wet the alum crystal or rub it gently on damp skin after showering.
• Allow it to dry before dressing.

The Bottom Line!

While it possesses properties that may contribute to lemons for underarm whitening, it is essential to approach its usage with caution. It is advisable to perform a patch test and protect the underarms from sunlight. Ultimately, individual results may vary, and it’s always best to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice and alternative treatment options if needed.