Here are some details about skin whitening creams, including their ingredients, positive and negative aspects, and potential risks:
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Skin whitening creams, also known as bleaching creams, whiteners, skin brighteners, or fading creams, work by reducing the amount of melanin, a pigment, in the skin. This can help lighten the skin and improve its tone.
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The most widely used ingredient in skin lighteners sold in the U.S. is hydroquinone. However, hydroquinone has been associated with potential harm and is banned in some countries.
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Some skin lighteners may contain mercury, which can lead to mercury poisoning. The use of mercury as an ingredient in skin lighteners is banned in the U.S., but products produced outside the U.S. may still contain it.
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Positive ingredients in skin lightening creams include:
- Kojic acid, a natural lightening and brightening ingredient.
- Vitamin C, which has various benefits such as antioxidant properties, collagen building, and skin brightening.
- Alpha-arbutin, a skin lightening active.
- Niacinamide, also known as pro-vitamin B3, which is an antioxidant, sebum balancer, acne fighter, anti-inflammatory, and ceramide booster.
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Some skin lightening products may not contain any known skin-lightening ingredients.
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Skin lightening products can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially when using various bleaching agents, including natural ingredients.
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To ensure safety when using a skin lightener, talk to your doctor before using the product, ask for specific instructions, and make sure there is no mercury in the product. Mercury may be listed under other names, such as calomel.
