Last Updated on June 13, 2022 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A Youtube video claims you can whiten your skin overnight using sugar, honey and lemon juice. We fact-checked and found this claim to be False.
The Claim
A video on Youtube titled “ Skin Lightening Overnight | how to brighten skin Miracle Formula” shares a video which displays a homemade remedy for whitening your skin instantly with a recipe made with sugar, honey and lemon juice.
Fact Check
Can the use of sugar whiten your skin?
No. there is no scientific evidence that proves that sugar can whiten your skin. It can act as an exfoliator and remove dead skin cells but cannot whiten your skin permanently. Moreover, scrubbing your face with sugar can be too harsh for the face. It can cause small tears in the skin and lead to damage, especially if you’re using regular sugar. It can also lead to irritation, redness, dryness, scratches and wounds.
Can honey whiten your skin?
Honey can be good for the skin in various ways. A 2016 study found that honey has antibacterial effects and may help in reducing breakouts. It also contains natural enzymes which can act as a natural exfoliator. Lastly, a 2014 study showed honey holds antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and thus may help to lessen skin redness and irritation. Even though it can eliminate dead skin cells that can reveal brighter skin but there is no scientific evidence that proves that it can change your skin tone permanently.
Can the use of lemon be beneficial for the skin?
Not always. Even though lemon is a good source of Vitamin C and is an antioxidant, using lemon directly on the skin is not recommended as it is highly acidic and can change your skin’s pH. It can lead to skin irritation, dryness, and sun damage, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Dr. Sonali Kohli, Consultant Dermatology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, says, “ Lemon is a vibrant source of Vitamin C and has antioxidant and anti-bacterial flavonoid properties which are great for the skin. Vitamin C serums prepared for the face are of a particular formulation and other additions that help balance the pH. Lemon juice is highly acidic, and the Vitamin C serums we use are not citric acid but the ascorbic acid version of the lemon juice, which is beneficial for the skin and is stabilized. When a person applies lemon directly to the face, you disturb the skin’s pH and make it completely acidic. In such cases, sun exposure can lead to Phytophotodermatitis (a skin reaction). Hence, it must be avoided.
Can you whiten your skin overnight using sugar, honey, and lemon juice?
No. No research indicates that you can whiten your skin overnight using sugar, honey, and lemon juice. Apart from the potential risks, the effects will quickly dissipate. The purported use of this face mask lacks any scientific evidence as it is not yet clinically tested and proven to work.
Consultant Dermatologist, Dr. Jyothy Kannangath, says, “ Lemon contains acids that have the ability to naturally lighten the skin, for ex, for tanning or following acne. However, there are prescription creams that are more effective than lemon. Sugar, honey and lemon are natural ingredients that have many healing properties, but that does not mean that they are totally safe. Both honey and lemon can cause problems if you are allergic to pollen or celery(honey) or if you have sensitive and dry skin.”
As stated before, using lemon on the skin is not recommended as it is highly acidic and can cause skin irritations, dryness, and sun damage, especially if you have sensitive skin. Therefore, the claim is false.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
