If you have heard about skin lightening, most likely you’ve known it in a negative light. However, there are many more things to know in regards to skin lightening. For instance, it is essential to know its advantages, drawbacks, why people lighten their skin, the risk factors, possible side effects, and many more. That said, here are some facts to know about skin lightening.
Everything you need to know in regards to skin bleaching
Skin lightening does not involve use of bleaches
Most skin lightening products do not have any bleaching agents in their ingredients. Bleaching agents disrupt melanin production, which may contribute to skin disorders. However, some have exfoliates that has a mild effect on skin peeling. Thus, this allows dead cells to die off. In return, they are replaced with fresher and a lighter layer.
Side effect of skin lightening
Some skin lightening products may have adverse side effects on some individuals. More to this, skin-lightening products that contain hydroquinone in large amounts may have carcinogenic effects. Hydroquinone based products may also cause allergic reactions, dryness, and itchiness. Therefore, it is recommended to work with a cosmetic dermatologist when buying skin-lightening products before using these products.
Side effects of abusing skin lightening products
Abusing or overuse of skin lightening products may pose adverse health effects. One of the side effects of abusing these drugs is that it may reduce the effectiveness of subsequent skin lightening products. Secondly, it will cause your skin to have a permanent dark or greyish taint. Excessive use of hydroquinone-based skin lightening products with a concentration of more than 2 % for over three months may cause skin complications. Worst of it all, your skin pigmentation may look mismatched in certain areas.
There are natural ways of skin lightening
If you are worried about the side effects of chemically made skin lightening products, you can consider using the natural cream reviewed. Some of these natural products include lemon juice, aloe vera, cucumber, tomato juice and many more. You can also use supplements such as vitamin c and E oral supplements.
Skin lightening is not a cosmetic surgery
Many people perceive skin lightening as cosmetic surgery. However, this is not the case. A dermatologist can use skin lightening to treat various complications. For instance, one can have skin lightening to deal with post inflammatory pigmentations. Such uneven skin pigmentation can be because of scars, age, birthmarks, and hormonal changes.