Lemon juice can help lighten skin tone.
While in many countries people with fair skin go out of their way to achieve a golden tan, in others fairer skin is coveted. Many different treatments are applied to try to make darker skin fairer. One of the iconic treatments is the subcontinental Fair and Lovely cream, which is an essential acid formula--thankfully there are more natural ways to lighten skin color. Always keep in mind that no natural remedies will achieve a major style transformation; a few shades lighter is achievable with regular application, not very dark to very light.
Instructions
1. Mix 1 tsp. lemon juice with 1 tbsp. natural, fresh yogurt. Apply this mixture to the face and neck, and leave for 20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
2. Mix 1 tsp. lemon juice with 1 tsp. honey, and apply this mixture to the face and neck. Organic or manuca honey is best and will help nourish your skin as well as aid in lightening and evening out the complexion.
3. Combine 1 tbsp. gram powder (also called besan or chickpea flour) with 1/2 tsp. turmeric and the pulp of one fresh tomato. Apply the paste to the face and neck. To make a similar mixture, remove the tomato and add sandal powder--this is used on subcontinental brides before the wedding night to lighten and brighten the complexion.
4. Soak 1 tbsp. oatmeal in 2 tbsp. water overnight. Combine with the pulp of one tomato, and apply this mixture to the face and neck. Do not discard the oatmeal water, as this is soothing for the skin and will help even the skin tone.
Tips Warnings
All of these whitening recipes can be left on for 20 minutes and can also be applied to arms and legs to achieve a lighter look as well. Usually, daily applications for around 2 weeks are required followed by weekly applications to maintain the skin color.
Most acid-containing fruits can be used to help lighten skin tone. Always combine with a soothing agent, such as yogurt, cucumber or papaya pulp to ensure the face mask isn't too strong.
Always test a small patch of skin. If irritation occurs, do not apply to the face.
Avoiding strong sunlight is important for maintaining skin color. It is also important after applying lemon juice to the face, as it makes the skin more photosensitive for at least 48 hours after application.
Tags: make, dark, skin, fairer, face neck, lemon juice, lighten skin, mixture face, mixture face neck, skin color, skin tone
