Try these skin rejuvenating products for a brighter, eventoned skin
THE DANGERS
Harsh bleach in skin lightening products can strip all or most of the skin pigment (melanin). This irritates the skin and can cause discolouration. Other people may develop bluish spots (ochrinosis) that look like bruises on their faces which are impossible to treat. Individuals who use skin lighteners have to be careful of sun exposure, as there’ll be less melanin production to provide protection. Although the skin will be lighter, it can suffer severe sun damage. Some skin lighteners contain mercury. In large doses, exposure to mercury can cause health issues like skin rashes, bacterial and fungal infection, and kidney damage.
PRECAUTIONS
Sunscreen is extremely important for skin of colour. The sun causes a loss of brightness, increases dullness and increased discolouration, because people with skin of colour produce more pigmentation naturally. Dr P recommends that “women of colour should first focus on the health of their skin and knowing which ingredients will benefit their complexion”.
“If you have a sensitive or problem skin, applying harsh lightening products would not be recommended. Rather focus on clearing your skin using products with gentle ingredients than brightening your complexion,” she adds.
WHICH ONE’S BETTER FOR SKIN OF COLOUR?
Skins of colour produce more irregular patches of pigmentation than fair-skinned individuals. So we have to be careful with lightening products that can result in even more irregular patches of pigmentation. A gentle and cautious approach is best. “Unless a skin lightener is prescribed by a dermatologist for a specific concern like lightening dark spots left by acne, individuals should avoid or limit using them,” Dr P advises. Skin brightening, on the other hand, Dr P says, is always beneficial as the products are not as harsh and a glowing, healthy skin is key.