Limes not only create a refreshing summer beverage and a creamy pie, but they also may refresh and rejuvenate your acne-prone skin for a creamy, smooth complexion. Lime juice seems to provide disinfectant, antioxidant and antibacterial agents beneficial for clear skin. However, though limes appear to ease acne symptoms, check with your doctor before incorporating the fruit into your skin-care regimen.
Acne
Hair covers almost every part of your body. Each hair grows from a follicle, and a sebaceous gland is located at the bottom of each follicle. These glands secrete natural oils that keep your skin soft and lubricated. When an overproduction of oil occurs, it can become trapped in a hair follicle, causing bacterial buildup and inflammation known as acne. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne affects 40 million to 50 million Americans. In fact, it ranks as the most common skin complaint in the United States. Though acne doesn't jeopardize your general health, it can result in embarrassing blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, pustules and boils.
Lime Benefits
When treating acne symptoms, the Mayo Clinic suggests using products that dry excess oil and promote peeling of the upper layer of your skin. Limes seem to have that ability. They contain flavonoids and vitamin C, both antioxidants, exfoliating and detoxification agents that deliver the necessary strength to slough off dead cells, flush out impurities from your pores and promote new skin growth. Dr. C. Norman Shealy, neurosurgeon, founder of the American Holistic Medicine Association and author of the book "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies," recommends the topical use of citrus juice, such as lime juice, for its astringent qualities that can cut through oil in greasy skin. The fruit's antibiotic and antiviral properties also appear to fight inflammation and infection linked with acne flare-ups. Additionally, when taken orally, its natural laxative qualities seem to work as a detoxification agent, aiding digestion, preventing constipation and helping to flush out toxins for clearer skin.
How to Use Lime
Dr. Jerome Z. Litt, a Cleveland, Ohio, dermatologist, agrees in the book "Home Remedies What Works," that the citric acid contained in lime juice delivers just the right strength to safely peel off your skin's upper layer. To prepare a face wash, squeeze the juice of a fresh lime into a cup. Saturate a cotton ball in the juice and apply the liquid directly onto your blemishes. After 15 minutes, wash off the juice with cool water. To use as a beverage, squeeze the juice of a lime into a tall glass of filtered water and drink it first thing upon awakening in the morning.
Considerations
Though limes have a long history of use in British folklore medicine, further scientific research is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy as a remedy for acne outbreaks. Limes can irritate sensitive skin and can burn when applied to open skin. Drinking large doses of lime juice can cause heartburn, gas or gastric irritation.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology: Acne
- Mayo Clinic: Acne: Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies"; C. Norman Shealy, M.D., Ph.D.; 2002
- "Home Remedies What Works"; Gale Malesky; 1995
- "Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine"; Andrew Chevallier; 2000
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