Lemon is commonly used as a home remedy for many types of hyperpigmentation, including melasma, freckles, age spots and acne scarring. There are several ways to use lemon for hyperpigmentation. To use lemon as a natural hyperpigmentation treatment, lemon juice can be applied directly to the affected area for several minutes each day. Lemon juice can also be combined with other natural ingredients to fade and exfoliate the skin. When used on a regular basis, lemon can be an effective hyperpigmentation treatment that gradually evens the skin tone over time.
The easiest way to use lemon to reduce hyperpigmentation is to apply lemon slices or juice directly to the skin. To apply lemon juice to the skin, soak a cotton ball or small cloth in lemon juice or in a diluted mixture of lemon juice and water. Apply the liquid directly to the hyperpigmented area and hold for anywhere from several minutes to half an hour. Afterward, the remaining liquid can be washed from the skin or left to dry. To protect the skin from becoming overly dry, moisturize immediately after using lemon juice for hyperpigmentation.
While lemon juice can be applied to the skin for short periods, avoid keeping lemon on the skin for extended lengths of time. People with sensitive skin might find lemon too irritating to apply directly to the skin. If left on the skin for too long, lemon might even irritate a person with normally tough skin. Using lemon for hyperpigmentation can also increase photo-sensitivity, which means that the skin will become more susceptible to sun damage. To protect the skin, you should regularly apply sunscreen before sun exposure.
Lemon can also be used with other hyperpigmentation remedies to increase its effectiveness. A popular way to use lemon to treat hyperpigmentation is to mix the juice with other fruits. Lemon juice can be mixed with the juice of other citrus fruits like limes and grapefruit. Papaya, apples, kiwi and raspberries can also be mixed with lemon juice to create natural melasma treatments. These fruits are full of antioxidants and enzymes that might be effective in lightening the skin.
Honey, yogurt, almond oil, milk powder and aloe can also be combined with lemon for hyperpigmentation. Yogurt works as a bleaching agent, while honey, almond oil, milk powder and aloe soothe and hydrate the skin. If you have sensitive skin, adding a few soothing ingredients might make it easier to keep lemon on your skin long enough to be effective.
While using lemon for hyperpigmentation, it is important to remember that this treatment is not a quick fix. When applied to the skin regularly for several minutes each day, lemon can help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Depending on the severity of your discoloration, it might take several weeks to notice results. To reap the greatest benefit from lemon-based remedies, it is important to be patient and let the lemon gradually lighten the skin over time.