Understanding Skin Lightening: Debunking Myths and Clarifying Facts

Beauty and fairness have always gone hand in hand. Fair skin, with no dark spots or uneven skin tone, is seen as a requisite to be labelled as beautiful. The craze for bright and fair skin leads people to try various products. From grandma’s home remedies to the over-the-counter (OTC ) skin brightening cream suggested on the television commercial to visiting dermatologists to get procedures done, the things people resort to on their quest for fair, smooth, and bright skin are endless. While most people undertake skin-lightening procedures for aesthetic reasons, some opt for these procedures to address certain skin conditions and to get rid of uneven skin tone.

The topic of skin lightening is clouded with many myths and hearsay. False information and Chinese whispers add to the situation, making it messier. Let us get to know real facts about skin lightening and debunk the myths associated with it.

What is Skin Lightening?

Skin lightening refers to the treatments, procedures, and products used to lighten the skin tone and reduce the appearance of pigmentation and scars, leaving behind fair and even-toned skin. The products used for skin-lightening are designed to reduce hyperpigmentation, acne scars, age spots, and other forms of skin discolouration. The commonly used products are retinoids, kojic acid, hydroquinones, arbutin, and vitamin C. These products contain active ingredients that work by inhibiting melanin production. Melanin is the pigment that gives colour to the skin. The active ingredients surpass the action of the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production, thus leading to a gradual lightening of the skin.

All skin-lightening products may not be safe and efficient. Some of them have harmful contents like mercury, steroids, etc, and high concentrations of hydroquinone that can cause serious side effects upon long-term use.

There are several cosmetic procedures for skin lightening, like laser treatment (CO2 and Q switch), chemical peeling (with lactic acid, glycolic acid), microdermabrasion, and glutathione injectable procedure.

While there are numerous methods that you can choose from, the correct information regarding these methods is still being determined. Before opting for any method for skin lightening, you must consult a dermatologist and get an expert opinion on what method will suit your needs.

Myths About Skin Lightening

Skin lightening is a concern that has been haunting women and men alike for ages. With information, there comes a lot of misinformation that can create confusion. Let us address some of these myths and debunk them.

1. Skin-lightening products are only for people who want to be fair and white.

Fact- Skin-lightening is not just about becoming fair. People who want to get rid of their acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone can also choose to use skin-lightening products.

2. Skin-lightening products are harmful and dangerous.

Fact- While it is true that some products contain harmful ingredients and are unsafe for long-term use, this is not the case with all skin-lightening products. The safety of the products depends upon how it has been formulated and whether approved ingredients are used. Always consult a dermatologist and choose products from reputed brands. It is important to conduct a patch test before using any product on a sensitive area like the face to prevent developing unwanted allergies from that skin product.

3. The effect of skin-lightening products are only skin deep and do not last long.

Fact- Some skin-lightening products and procedures give long-lasting results. Substances like kojic acid, retinoids, and hydroquinone have a long-term effect in inhibiting melanin production. This gives to lighter skin and reduced hyperpigmentation over time. However, it is important to follow a good skincare routine regularly and avoid exposure to harsh sunlight.

4. It says ‘dermatologist recommended’ on the TV commercial, so it should be safe to use.

Fact- TV commercials are not the right guide. When the product is said to be ‘dermatologist-recommended,’ it usually means that the ingredients are government approved and safe to use. It does not necessarily mean that those products may suit you or your requirements. It may turn out that your skin may be sensitive or allergic to a particular ingredient in the product that was found safe for use when tested on a vast population during clinical trials. Always perform a patch test before using any skincare products.

5. My friend has the same condition as me, and she recommended the procedure she underwent. It will work for me too.

Fact- Every individual is different. What worked for your friend may or may not work for you. Dermatologists at Kosmoderam Skin, Hair and Body Clinic always advise against using skin-lightening products and getting procedures done randomly.

6. Dermatologists always recommend expensive products and procedures for skin lightening that are not required.

Fact- If a qualified dermatologist has prescribed a certain product or suggested a certain procedure, it has been done using clinical acumen and experience after careful clinical evaluation of your skin and understanding of your requirements. Dermatologists do not prescribe products or procedures randomly.

7. I do not need any cosmetic procedure for skin lightening. Home remedies will be enough.

Fact- This is partially true. While topical applications and home remedies like face packs help to a certain extent in skin lightening, combining it with cosmetic procedures like chemical peeling, microdermabrasion, etc, will give enhanced results. Also, skin lightening requires active ingredients in the topical application. The home remedies contain active ingredients that have not been clinically tested.

8. Skin-lightening procedures like laser therapy and chemical peeling will further burn and damage my skin.

Fact- All cosmetic procedures have been well-tested and are safe and effective when done by well-qualified and experienced dermatologists. However, if you feel hesitant or unsure about a procedure, talk to your doctor and get all your concerns addressed before proceeding.

Facts To Keep In Mind About Skin Lightening

1. Skin-lightening products should be used with caution and moderation. If you overuse or misuse these products, you will face side effects like redness, skin irritation, and permanent damage. Please read the instructions on the products. Consult a dermatologist to ensure the proper use of a product.

2. Sun protection plays a crucial role in maintaining the results of skin lightening. Excessive sun exposure acts as a counter-effect to the actions of the skin-lightening products on the production of melanin. You will end up with even darker skin and the reappearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation if the sun exposure is not under check. Remember to use the right sunscreen every time you step out.

3. Skin lightning products and procedures do not give permanent results. Genetics, hormonal fluctuations, and environmental factors play a significant role in the appearance of your skin. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and have a good skincare routine to make the effect of skin-lightening products and procedures last longer. Also, remember, skin lightening does not work like magic. It cannot transform you overnight into a completely different version of yourself. Hence it is important to have practical and realistic goals for a skin-lightening procedure or product.

Understanding skin lightening requires you to debunk the myths and clarify the facts surrounding it. It is a personal choice and should be approached with caution. Consult a dermatologist at Kosmoderma Skin, Hair and Body Clinics and seek professional guidance before you embark on this journey. Remember that a regular skincare routine and sun protection are essential to maintain skin-lightening results for a long time.