In Search of Fair Skin

Concluding my answer to Keesha from yesterday …

Question 2: Will skin lighteners cause skin to thin?

There are many safe and effective skin lightening ingredients, but patience is required to see results. The ingredients available in OTC skin lightening products are generally regarded to be safe and pose no danger to collagen in the dermis.

Skin lightening medications are a different matter and should only be used only under a medical professional’s supervision. Higher concentrations of hydroquinone found in prescription products can be irritating to the skin. Some formulations combine hydroquinone with corticosteroids to control the inflammation. Cortisone can damage collagen and cause thinning of the skin.

Read about The Basics of Skin Lightening and Monitoring for Pre-Malignancies here.

Question 3: Can I permanently lighten my whole body’s skin safely?

In my opinion, no.

As for unwanted tanning, your best bet is prevention. UV exposure is the one melanin stimulating factor you can control quite effectively. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen religiously when you are using skin lightening creams and – really – for the rest of your life. Here are some tips to assure you are getting Sufficient Sun Protection.

As for blotchiness and scars, you may find this article on Dealing with Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation helpful.

You might consider Laser Treatments for the scars as well.

* Be sure to read Some Things to Avoid in Your Search for a Fairer Skin.

After reading the above, I hope you’ve concluded that overall skin lightening is simply not worth it. Love the skin you’re in. If it’s healthy, be grateful ;-)

Regards,
Jean

This article does not purport to offer medical advice, but only to provide background information.

Tags: safe skin lightening, risks of skin lightening, sun protection, overall skin lightening, permanent skin lightening, Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, laser resurfacing, can skin lighteners thin skin?