Beautyrival – TikTok never runs out of beauty DIY trends, and one of the most talked-about lately is using lemon as a natural deodorant and brightening agent for underarms. Simply typing “lemon underarms” on the app reveals hundreds of videos showing people rubbing lemon slices or juice under their arms. Many combine it with baking soda or switch it with lime, hoping to get fresher-smelling and lighter skin.
The Natural Deodorant Appeal
This trend appeals to those avoiding conventional deodorants. Concerns about aluminum-based formulas, potential cancer links, and environmental issues have led many to seek natural alternatives. Although no direct scientific evidence links deodorants to breast cancer, the fear remains widespread, driving curiosity toward ingredients like lemon.
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How Lemon Works on Skin
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Geeta Yadav, lemon contains citric acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). This natural exfoliant can remove dead skin cells and reveal brighter, smoother skin. Lemon’s acidic nature may also help kill bacteria that cause body odor.
Potential Benefits—And The Big Risks
While lemon has exfoliating and antibacterial properties, it’s not without risks. The underarm area is highly sensitive and often experiences friction, especially after shaving. Applying lemon directly may cause irritation, stinging, and even worsen pigmentation—contrary to the intended effect of brightening.
The Danger of Phytophotodermatitis
Dr. Yadav warns of a condition called phytophotodermatitis, a skin reaction triggered when citrus compounds interact with sunlight. This can result in severe rashes or painful blisters. Since lemons make skin more photosensitive, their use on exposed areas like underarms should be approached with caution.
Safer Alternatives Recommended by Experts
If you’re still curious, always do a patch test first. Apply a small amount of lemon juice on a hidden part of your underarm and wait 24 hours to check for irritation. However, dermatologists suggest safer and more effective options such as brightening creams, chemical peels, microneedling, or laser treatments.
Final Verdict on Lemon Armpits
Despite its popularity, using lemon underarms is a trend that should be approached mindfully. It may provide some short-term benefits, but the potential for irritation, burns, and hyperpigmentation outweighs the gain—especially for sensitive skin. As Dr. Yadav emphasizes, aluminum-based deodorants are scientifically safe, and proven skincare products are always a better choice.
