Mixing Lemon and Toothpaste Is Said to Brighten the Face, Here's the Explanation from a Doctor

Photo: TikTok/Naturalspfood

JAKARTA - Recently, beauty tips that mix lemon juice with toothpaste to brighten the face have gone viral again. This method is claimed to brighten the skin of the face cheaply, naturally, and without side effects.

However, it's worth noting that there is no scientific evidence to show that a mixture of toothpaste and lemon juice can make the skin color brighter. The use of both ingredients can even cause irritation if applied directly to the face.

Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, but that doesn't mean they are safe to apply directly to the skin. Using lemon water directly on the skin can disrupt the skin's pH balance.

"Applying lemon water directly to the face can change the pH of the skin so that it is more susceptible to reactions when exposed to sunlight. This condition can cause phytophotodermatitis," said Consultant Dermatologist at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Dr. Sonali Kohli, quoted from The Healthy Indian Project, on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

Phytophotodermatitis itself is a skin reaction due to the combination of certain substances from plants or fruits with UV exposure. Symptoms include redness, pain, blisters, and leaving a dark stain on the skin.

Toothpaste should also not be used as a skin care product. Toothpaste does contain teeth whitening ingredients, but this does not mean it is safe or effective for lightening the skin.

"Toothpaste does contain teeth whitening ingredients, but this product is not designed to be applied to the skin. Its strong enough content can cause irritation, burning sensation, and redness," said dermatologist, Dr. Imam Qazi.

Therefore, it is recommended that if you want to get a skin that looks brighter and healthier, then use products that are indeed formulated for the skin. Starting from vitamin C serum, niacinamide, retinol, or containing active ingredients to gently exfoliate the skin.

In addition, it is also recommended to wear sunscreen every day. Regular use of sunscreen helps prevent the appearance of hyperpigmentation due to exposure to sunlight on the skin.