Using Lemon Juice to Lighten Liver Spots: Does It Work?

Liver Spots are spots on the skin that develop as the body ages. They range in size from the head of a pin to about the size of a pencil eraser. They are usually reddish, brown or black in color, and they usually appear on the head, neck and arms, or other spots of the body that have received the most sun exposure. They are sometimes called sun spots, age spots, lentigos or lentigines.

It is important not to confused these spots with spots that may be developing due to skin cancer. If a mole is gradually becoming larger or changing colors drastically over time, you should see a doctor immediately.

Remedies to Help Reduce Liver Spots

There are numerous remedies, both ancient and modern, that are said to help remove these liver spots in almost all who are willing to try at least one of them. Some of the modern technologies being employed are lightening/bleach creams, dermabrasion from a dermatologist, and chemical peels. Be sure if you are using any of these, to consult your doctor before hand.

There are also ancient remedies used to help lighten these liver spots. We will just talk examine one, lemon juice.

How to Apply the Lemon Juice

Fresh lemons seem to be the method of choice. In fact, certain sources say not to use concentrated lemon juice, because the sugar, preservatives and other chemicals can actually do harm to your skin. Cut a lemon in half and rub the juicy part lightly against your skin. Leave it on for about 15 minutes, and then rinse and pat dry.

Other suggestions include waiting until the lemon juice is dry, or until you rinse and dry your skin before going outside. This is because the fresh lemon juice on your skin can cause a higher sensitivity to the sun.

Does It Work?

According to studies, not only does it work, but it may be one of the healthiest ways to lighten these spots and improve the overall health of your skin. Many people that have tried this inexpensive remedy, were not only able to lighten these spots, but some were able to remove them completely.

The amount and degree to which it works differs from case to case, and it takes a long time to completely remove or lighten these liver spots. Patience is necessary to complete the full lightening process. Many patients want to know why it will take so long for them.

Research shows that not only does it take a little while for the acid in the lemon juice to dissolve or lighten these spots, but aging is a long process and therefore so is the process of removing years of aging and sun damage. Don't be discouraged if you don't notice a difference within the first few days or even weeks. Keep applying the lemon juice at least every other day, and the positive results are sure to follow.