How to Shower With a Lemon

Last Updated: March 12, 2023

Washing with a lemon is a refreshing and effective way to bathe without using soap. It is particularly effective at helping skin recover after swimming in a chlorinated pool. The acidic juice smooths hair cuticles and acts as a mild chemical exfoliant to reveal fresh, smooth skin.^{[1]
X
Research source}

Steps

1
Choose your lemon: A lemon for bathing should be light in color. Green spots are acceptable. Darker lemons tend to be mealy inside. Mealy is not good.
2
Peel your lemon: It is best to have the largest pieces of peel possible. It is acceptable, if not preferable, to leave some of the white layer on the lemon Split the peeled lemon into two halves. Begin showering.

Advertisement
3
Wash your hair: Hold the lemon half with the peel side out. Squeeze gently over your head to release some juice and begin rubbing the peel side of the lemon onto your hair. If you use the other side of the lemon you will get lemon bits in your hair. Make sure to cover the entire length of your hair.^{[2]
X
Research source}
4
Condition your hair: Hold a large piece of peel in both hands. Rub the inside (white) of the peel onto your hair. Use both hands to treat long hair. Rinse after you have thoroughly applied the peel to your hair.
5
Wash your face and body: Using the same technique you used to wash your hair, wash your face with the peel-side of the lemon half. After you wash your face use the remainder of both lemon halves to wash your body.^{[3]
X
Research source}
6
Rinse thoroughly: Make sure any lemon bits are removed. Enjoy smooth feeling skin.^{[4]
X
Research source}

Community Q&A

Question

Could using a lemon make your hair grow or maybe have an effect on its growth?

Community Answer

No. Lemon isn't good for your hair, or for your skin for that matter. It's harsh and drying. It can lighten the color of your hair a little, if that's something you want, but it will not help with growth. There are many things you can use to aid hair growth. See How to Make Your Hair Grow Faster.
Question

After washing with lemon, should I use soap?

Community Answer

No. The lemon juice works as a cleaner.
Question

Can I use a lime instead?

Community Answer

No, limes may cause your skin and hair to be too sticky.

Warnings

Your skin may be especially sensitive to acids. If you get a burning sensation in delicate areas that lasts for more than a few minutes, then refrain from this method of bathing in the future.

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 25 Not Helpful 14
Don't get lemon juice in your eyes!

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 24 Not Helpful 14