Misconception: Using lemon juice for radiant skin.

The purported benefits of using lemon on the skin (lightening, anti-acne, anti-spot...) are linked to the natural acidity of this citrus fruit, as well as its content of vitamin C and citric acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid. However, the topical application of lemon juice presents more risks and side effects than benefits.

Firstly, lemon is irritating, especially for sensitive skin. This is due to its extremely acidic pH (2 - 3), which is much lower than the physiological pH of the skin, ranging between 4.7 and 5.75. This high acidity of lemon juice can alter the skin's natural pH, leading to a weakening of the skin barrier. This then results in irritations, dryness, redness, and excessive desquamation (peeling skin).

Next, the lemon is composed of photosensitising molecules, such as furocoumarins, which increase the skin's sensitivity to UV rays. In fact, furocoumarins have the ability to interact with DNA, causing damage to skin cells and inflammation.

If you apply lemon juice to your skin before exposing it to the sun, you may experience redness, swelling, and blisters. This can also lead to conditions such as phytophotodermatitis or even chemical leukoderma, also known as vitiligo. This skin disorder occurs when your skin lightens due to a loss of melanin, and large, widespread white patches may develop.

Finally, it is important to note that the levels of citric acid and vitamin C can vary from one lemon to another. Therefore, if you are using pure lemon juice on your skin, you do not know the concentration of acids you are applying, which can be hazardous. In cosmetics, there are many active ingredients that possess the same properties praised in lemons, but in a safe manner. Discover them below.

The differences in biochemical compositions between lemon juice and lemon water are due to different extraction processes. Lemon juice is extracted through mechanical pressure, while lemon hydrosol is the result of steam distillation of whole lemons. Unlike lemon juice which has a very acidic pH, thelemon hydrosol can be used in cosmetics because it has a significantly less acidic pH (between 5 to 7). Furthermore, it possesses brightening, sebum-regulating, toning and purifying properties, making it suitable for all skin types, particularly oily, acne-prone, dull, combination and pigmented skin.

aqueous lemon extract safely for your skin. At Typology, we even offer you products based on this natural extract such as:

• The pigmentation spot serum containing 2% of alpha-arbutin and lemon extract helps to reduce pigmentation spots, while toning and unifying the skin;

• The antioxidant face cream containing 5% of vitamin C and lemon plant water which effectively combats free radicals, responsible for dull complexion and premature skin ageing.