can we use lemon instead of vinegar - #39381
I am trying to figure out if we can use lemon instead of vinegar in some of my cooking and natural remedies. Last week, I tried making this homemade face scrub that had vinegar in it, but the smell was really overpowering and I couldn't stand it! After some research, I found out that lemon has such great antibacterial properties too, and I’ve heard people saying it’s just as effective. I often feel like my skin could use a little brightness, and I’ve read lemon juice can help with that. But then again, I read conflicting info online about how vinegar is better in some cases, like removing impurities. So, I guess I’m just confused – can we use lemon instead of vinegar for things like cleaning, cooking, and skincare? Will it give me the same results? Also, if I’m using lemon juice instead, like in salad dressings or even as a facial wash, will I have any negative reactions? I really want to avoid anything that could irritate my sensitive skin, ya know? Hope you can help clear things up for me!
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Doctors' responses
You can use lemon as a substitute for vinegar in many situations, especially if you’re concerned about the overpowering smell. Lemon juice has natural antibacterial properties that can make it effective for cleaning and brightening your skin. However, whether it can completely replace vinegar depends on what you’re specifically using it for.
In cooking, lemon juice can often be used in place of vinegar for dressings or marinades where a milder acidity is preferred. It provides a fresh and citrusy flavor to your dishes, which can be very pleasant. Just keep in mind that lemons are less acidic than vinegar, so you might need a little more to achieve the same level of tanginess. Adjusting the proportions can avoid overwhelming the taste.
For skincare, particularly with sensitive skin, lemon does have lightening and exfoliating properties but should be used cautiously. Because of its citric acid, applying lemon on the skin can potentially cause irritation, especially if not diluted. It’s preferable to mix it with a carrier like honey or yogurt before applying to the face to reduce the concentration. For your homemade face scrub, you could substitute lemon juice for vinegar, but be aware of any tingling or burning sensation as this might suggest irritation.
Regarding cleaning, lemon juice can be used effectively on many surfaces, leaving behind a pleasant scent. However, vinegar is preferred in some cleaning situations where a stronger acidity is needed to break down grime and impurities. Vinegar’s acetic acid makes it more effective at dissolving mineral build-up or mold.
Overall, whether using lemon or vinegar, always do a patch test on your skin to ensure there is no adverse reaction. If you have any ongoing concerns about sensitivity or allergies, consulting with a dermatologist or a practitioner experienced in skin care can offer personalized guidance. Remember, immediate reactions like redness or itchiness should be carefully monitored.
In conclusion, while lemon juice can serve as a versatile alternative in many situations, being mindful of its different properties compared to vinegar will help you use them suitably across various applications.

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