Point Chevalier, Auckland

Don't try this at home: Why Lemons Aren't a Magic Potion for Flawless Skin

Tsahallah from Beauty Fields

The charm of natural remedies is undeniable, especially when it comes to skincare. From honey masks to coffee scrubs, DIY concoctions flood social media, promising quick fixes for everything from wrinkles to hyperpigmentation. But before you squeeze that lemon onto your face based on the latest … View moreThe charm of natural remedies is undeniable, especially when it comes to skincare. From honey masks to coffee scrubs, DIY concoctions flood social media, promising quick fixes for everything from wrinkles to hyperpigmentation. But before you squeeze that lemon onto your face based on the latest TikTok "hack," hold on! As a pharmacist who has dedicated years to formulating gentle yet effective skincare, I'm here to burst the citrus bubble and explain why lemons are a bad idea for treating skin spots.

Lemon on your face is not such a good idea.
The Acidic Truth, what you don’t know can harm you

Let's start with the science. Lemons are undeniably rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant praised for its brightening properties. However, the key ingredient responsible for that "magic" is citric acid, a potent alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). While AHAs can indeed exfoliate dead skin cells, revealing a seemingly brighter complexion, the harsh reality is that lemon juice is far too acidic for your delicate facial skin.
Imagine this: your skin's natural pH sits around a healthy 5.5, slightly acidic but leaning towards neutral. Lemon juice, on the other hand, boasts a pH of 2-3, making it incredibly acidic and comparable to vinegar! Applying this directly to your face disrupts your skin's natural barrier, potentially leading to:
Inflammation and irritation: Redness, burning, and stinging are common reactions, especially for sensitive skin.
Increased sun sensitivity: AHAs make your skin more susceptible to sun damage, potentially worsening hyperpigmentation instead of lightening it.
Uneven skin tone: Over-exfoliation, inflammation, and increased sun sensitivity can lead to patchy, uneven skin tone, the opposite of the desired effect. Yup! It can make things worse!


pH2 is 1000 times more acidic than pH5, it’s a logarithmic scale
Beyond the Burn: The Long-Term Damage
The harm doesn't stop at immediate reactions. Frequent use of lemon juice can weaken your skin's barrier, making it more vulnerable to environmental damage, infections, and premature aging. It's essentially trading short-term perceived brightness for long-term skin woes.
The Temptation of the Algorithm: Why We Fall for the "Hacks"
So, why do these questionable practices gain traction online? The answer lies in a complex mix of factors:
Appeal to natural remedies: The belief that "natural" equals safe and effective is very strong.
Influencer trust: We often see flawless, filtered complexions on our screens, leading us to believe the methods used are foolproof, regardless of their potential harm.
Cherry-picking results: Social media thrives on showcasing successes, rarely highlighting negative experiences or potential dangers.
The Power of Informed Choices: Seek Expertise, Not Likes
It's important to remember that quick fixes rarely deliver lasting results, and especially when it comes to your skin, caution is paramount. Be weary before trying any DIY trend, especially on your face!
Remember, your skin is your largest organ, deserving of care and respect. Don't fall victim to online trends that prioritize likes over lasting results. Choose the informed path, treat your skin with gentleness and respect, and use lemons for lemonade - the healthy way, not on your face.

Use your Lemons wisely, drink them!

Have you got a family-favourite recipe for carrots?

Jo McCarroll Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

We're looking for delicious carrot recipes to feature in NZ Gardener's April issue. Send your family's favourite ways to eat this easy-to-grow vege crop to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz by February 25, 2024. Every published recipe wins a copy of the April issue of NZ Gardener.

$15,000 to welcome you home...

The Team from Ryman Healthcare

It could be our wonderful staff. Our vibrant communities. Our amazing amenities. Or just the peace of mind that our guaranteed fixed base weekly fee* brings. There are so many reasons to choose the Ryman lifestyle. We’d love to add one more reason to your list - $15,000 back for a limited time*.
… View moreIt could be our wonderful staff. Our vibrant communities. Our amazing amenities. Or just the peace of mind that our guaranteed fixed base weekly fee* brings. There are so many reasons to choose the Ryman lifestyle. We’d love to add one more reason to your list - $15,000 back for a limited time*.

If you sign up to one of our new home offers, you’ll get a $15,000 credit on settlement*.

There’s truly never been a better time to choose Ryman.

*Terms and conditions apply. Explore our villages now

Hyperpigmentation Soap – All Natural Skin Lightening Treatment HandMade in New Zealand

Tsahallah from Beauty Fields

More info: beautyfields.co.nz...
A cream is also available

This soap treats pigmentation. It can be used for skin lightening, skin bleaching, or as a skin whitening treatment. This soap is gentler and safer than other bleach soaps for skin such as Kojic soap and the like. All Natural, handmade … View moreMore info: beautyfields.co.nz...
A cream is also available

This soap treats pigmentation. It can be used for skin lightening, skin bleaching, or as a skin whitening treatment. This soap is gentler and safer than other bleach soaps for skin such as Kojic soap and the like. All Natural, handmade in NZ. For body and face – Normal to oily skin.

Treat your skin with the best that nature offers to ensure a radiant clear complexion and brighter-looking skin. Enriched with natural skin-lightening herbs this soap is one of a kind.


Calendula – Ancient Egyptians used Calendula to rejuvenate their skin. Bathing in calendula infusion was thought to give one a healthy glow.

Parsley – Rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants/ Vitamin C is clinically proven to reduce skin pigmentation.

Directions: Use daily as a regular soap for the face and body. Leave it on for a minute or two before rinsing. Apply moisturizer if needed.
Size: 90gr/3.3Oz. All Vegan.
Not tested on animals.

Price: $25

Marist College Blazer size 12, yellow senior s/s shirt and long navy skirt

Carolyn from Mount Albert

For sale on trade me. Listed by me today. Contact me through that advert if interested. Shirt is 10-12 measures 20 inches /52 cms across the front from armpit to armpit. Skirt is the long winter weight, lined. Skirt measures 70-80cms (Has some small elasticated easing and a second button), about … View moreFor sale on trade me. Listed by me today. Contact me through that advert if interested. Shirt is 10-12 measures 20 inches /52 cms across the front from armpit to armpit. Skirt is the long winter weight, lined. Skirt measures 70-80cms (Has some small elasticated easing and a second button), about 28-30 inches. Blazer is size 12 and hardly worn.

Negotiable

Queen size mattress.

Aaron from Point Chevalier

Free queen size mattress available for pickup.Always been used with a mattress cover.

Free

Plants for sale.

Aaron from Point Chevalier

Hi neighbours, I have a few clivia, cycads, ficus tuffi, haemanthus bulbs and other random plants for sale. PM me if you would like to come and have a look to see if there is anything of interest to you.

Negotiable

Poll: What power issues have you faced?

The Team from NZ Compare

Hey neighbours! How has your power been treating you lately? Any sparks or stumbles in the past year?
Share the woes and let's brighten each other's day!

What power issues have you faced?

• Power Outages
• High Bills
• Billing Errors
• Voltage Fluctuations
• Poor Customer Service

Vote View Results

• 13.1% Power Outages
  13.1% Complete
• 73% High Bills
  73% Complete
• 2.9% Billing Errors
  2.9% Complete
• 4.2% Voltage Fluctuations
  4.2% Complete
• 6.8% Poor Customer Service
  6.8% Complete

382 votes

Introduction to the Art of Sitting Meditation

Admin from Nyima Tashi Kagyu Buddhist Centre

Saturday 24th February, 10am - 11am, free of charge. All welcome
Meditation is a way of learning to be with the dynamic vitality of the mind. We can train our mind to be with whatever thoughts and feelings arise without being overwhelmed by them. But how do we do that??
Please bring along any … View moreSaturday 24th February, 10am - 11am, free of charge. All welcome
Meditation is a way of learning to be with the dynamic vitality of the mind. We can train our mind to be with whatever thoughts and feelings arise without being overwhelmed by them. But how do we do that??
Please bring along any questions, hesitations, and doubts!
Venue: Nyima Tashi Buddhist Centre, 717 New North Rd, Mt Albert
For more information or to register email nyimatashi.nz@gmail.com or click the link below "Read More."

Is your furry friend protected?

Southern Cross from Neighbourly Nz

The Pet Life.

It’s the life you share with your pet, and the life they share with you. We believe the pet life’s a life worth protecting.

Which is why we are dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier and happier lives every day.

We’re proudly born and bred in New Zealand, and … View moreThe Pet Life.

It’s the life you share with your pet, and the life they share with you. We believe the pet life’s a life worth protecting.

Which is why we are dedicated to helping pets live longer, healthier and happier lives every day.

We’re proudly born and bred in New Zealand, and are equally proud to partner with the NZ Veterinary Association and Pet Refuge. Just two ways we’re there to support the Pet Life community.

Protect the Pet Life. Learn more now

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

Amitabha Hospice from Amitabha Hospice Service Trust

Call now, you will love volunteering with us

Open Days

Murray Halberg Retirement Village

Friday 23 February - Saturday 24 February, 10am-2pm

Join us for our open days and experience why the Ryman lifestyle could be for you.

Get information on living and care options, unmatched amenities and our Peace of Mind Guarantees.

There will also be an information presentation at 10am … View moreFriday 23 February - Saturday 24 February, 10am-2pm

Join us for our open days and experience why the Ryman lifestyle could be for you.

Get information on living and care options, unmatched amenities and our Peace of Mind Guarantees.

There will also be an information presentation at 10am each day.

Tree pruning service Pt Chevalier

Tee from Point Chevalier

Asking for recommendations for tree pruning service for my property in Pt Chevalier; thanks in advance.
Cheers
Tee

Small red dog collar found at Coxes Bay

Diana from Westmere

Has two tags - a current registration and something else. To reclaim it contact me with either the registration number and/ or what the something else is

Troubleshoot Your Broadband: Tips & Savings!

The Team from NZ Compare

Experiencing broadband troubles? Our recent neighbourly poll reveals the top two issues: unstable connections and pricey bills!

Don't worry! Check out our latest article for expert tips to solve these issues.

PLUS, use Broadband Compare to compare NZ's best broadband deals & … View moreExperiencing broadband troubles? Our recent neighbourly poll reveals the top two issues: unstable connections and pricey bills!

Don't worry! Check out our latest article for expert tips to solve these issues.

PLUS, use Broadband Compare to compare NZ's best broadband deals & save up to $300/year. Enjoy smoother internet while keeping cash for treats! Troubleshoot Now