Using Lemons As Part of Your Beauty Routine

My boyfriend and I got a random hair up  our butts today to make homemade lemonade. I’m not sure why, maybe it was the 150 degree heat, maybe it was the huge bag of lemons on sale at Costco for $5 that peaked our curiosity, but the whole act inspired me to write about the benefits of lemons in the world of beauty..

Believe it or not, lemons can be used to provide many cheap and effective beauty treatments. Did anyone ever spritz their hair with lemon juice and sit in the sun with hopes blonder locks?? I spent many hours with this citrus juice on my head when I was young, and believe it or not it did work! Unfortunately, my dark haired lovelies should not try this at home because it could turn your hair orange.

Here are some other beauty rituals you can incorporate lemons into:

1. Lighten Dark/Ashy Elbows and Knees.

For some reason, elbows and knees can sometimes be a lot darker than the rest of your skin. Lemon are a natural bleach, and with some patience, they can help lighten the darkened areas. Simply cut a lemon in half and rub it on you elbows or knees twice a day.  I’ve also heard that lemon juice can reduce the appearance of freckles and age spots!

2. Make Homemade Masks

My boyfriend was laughing at me today because while juicing, I started rubbing the rinds all over my face to see what it would do. He thought I was going crazy lol! I love finding natural, homemade skincare recipes, and am not afraid to test any fruit or veggie. Straight lemon juice might be too strong and acidic for sensitive skin, but mixing it with other items laying in your pantry will give you some awesome and cheap face masks!

Dry Skin: Mix lemon juice and honey together. Leave on for 10 minutes and rinse off for a smoother, brighter complexion!

Oily Skin: Mix one egg and half a lemon together in a small bowl. Apply to face (avoiding the eyes!) and let sit for 10-15 minutes.

3. Remove Blackheads

Lemons contain Alpha Hydroxy Acid, which is found in most acne medications. Cut a lemon in half and rub over any blackheads. If you have sensitive skin, try a light wash. Mix 1 part lemon juice with 3 parts water and splash on your face. Rinse it off and you will notice reduction of blackheads in several weeks.

4. Brighten Your Nails

Lemons act as a natural astringent, and can effectively whiten yellow or discolored nail beds. What you need to do is squeeze several lemons into a small bowl, insert fingertips and soak for 5-7 minutes. This little beauty regimen strengthens nails too. Added bonus!

So when life gives you lemons, mash them up and rub em’ on your face and elbows!