In the age of social media, where viral trends can spread like wildfire, it's not uncommon for age-old beauty hacks to resurface and capture the imagination of a new generation. The latest to make a comeback is the lemon juice hair-lightening trick, which has been making the rounds on platforms like TikTok, where influencers and beauty enthusiasts share their tips and tricks for achieving a sun-kissed look without a trip to the salon.


The method, which involves applying a mixture of lemon juice, water, and a touch of conditioner to the hair and then sitting in the sun, is touted as a natural and cost-effective way to achieve highlights. Anastasia Vlakhova, a 26-year-old Bulgarian TikTok creator, has been one of the proponents of this hack, claiming it's a technique passed down from her grandmother and one she's used for over 15 years to avoid professional bleaching.

Vlakhova's viral video, which has amassed over two million views, suggests that the lemon juice concoction is 'quick and easy,' but she stresses the importance of following certain rules to keep it safe. She advises those interested to pick small sections of hair to lighten, cover them with the lemon mix, and then sit in the sun for at least an hour before washing the hair with gentle shampoo and applying hair care products to prevent damage.


However, not everyone is on board with this DIY beauty trend. Tiffany Young, a certified trichologist and CEO of Thin Hair Thick, has voiced concerns about the unpredictability and potential downsides of using lemon juice to lighten hair. While acknowledging that lemon juice is a natural derivative with less potential to overprocess hair compared to bleach, Young warns that the acid in lemon juice can dry out hair, leaving it frizzy and stripped of beneficial oils. Moreover, she points out that it's not effective at lightening darker hair colors and won't lift the hair to a predictable shade.
The unpredictability of the results is a significant issue. Hair texture, color, and condition can all affect how the lemon juice reacts, and those with already damaged or darker hair may find the results skewed or unsatisfactory. Additionally, the risk of skin burns from citric acid combined with sun exposure is a serious concern. Medical experts always recommend using appropriate sunblock to protect the skin before spending time in the sun, a precaution that should be heeded especially when using lemon juice on the skin.


The resurgence of this hair-lightening hack serves as a reminder that not all DIY beauty trends are safe or effective. While the appeal of natural and cost-saving methods is understandable, it's crucial to consider the potential risks and to consult with professionals before trying out such hacks. Hair health is important, and sometimes saving a few dollars at the expense of your locks can lead to regrettable outcomes.
So, dear readers, before you reach for that lemon in your fruit bowl, think twice. If you're looking to lighten your hair, it might be worth investing in a professional service to ensure you achieve the desired results without compromising the health of your hair or skin. Have you ever tried using lemon juice to lighten your hair, or do you have any other natural beauty hacks you swear by? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below – we'd love to hear from you!