Yes, lemon can lighten hair, but it's not a guaranteed way to turn hair completely white. Lemon juice contains citric acid, a natural bleaching agent that can help lighten hair, particularly in lighter shades like blonde and light brown.
Here's how it works:
- Citric acid in lemon juice acts as a natural bleach, breaking down melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color.
- Sunlight further accelerates the bleaching process, making the effect more noticeable.
However, it's important to note that:
- Lemon juice's lightening effects are gradual and may not be dramatic. The results are often subtle and more of a brightening effect than complete whitening.
- The process can be damaging to hair. Lemon juice can be harsh and drying, leading to dryness, breakage, and even scalp irritation.
- The results are not permanent. The lightening effect fades over time as hair regrows.
Overall, while lemon juice can lighten hair, it's not a reliable or safe way to achieve a significant color change. If you're looking for a more permanent solution, consider professional hair lightening techniques.