Skin Bleaching Methods
Skin bleaching is common in Asia and parts of Africa and has gained popularity in the United States. This is in contrast to the notion of a suntan as the ideal that is prevalent in the United States, especially among Caucasians. There are several methods used when bleaching the skin. One option is to obtain a prescription product from a dermatologist. Other skin bleaching methods include bleaching creams and lotions that can be purchased over the counter.
The Facts
The ingredient that is found in most products that are used to bleach the skin is hydroquinone. In fact, hydroquinone is the only FDA-approved product that is used for skin bleaching. Other ingredients that are in popular skin bleaching products are licorice extract, azeleic acid, kojic acid and vitamin C.
It is recommended that people first see a dermatologist to discuss skin bleaching methods. Many of the products can be irritating to the skin. A dermatologist can determine the best product to use and prescribe something suited to the person's skin type.
Prescription
One way to obtain an effective skin bleaching product is by visiting a dermatologist. Prescription products contain more hydroquinone than over-the-counter products. The standard amount of hydroquinone in a prescription product is 4 percent, which is the highest allowed.
Many prescription products contain a mixture of ingredients, such as hydroquinone and glycolic acid. The combination generally makes the product more effective but may also increase irritation.
Over-the-Counter Products
There are also over-the-counter skin bleaching products that are considered effective. However, the maximum amount of hydroquinone that can be in an over-the-counter skin bleaching product is 2 percent.
Other over-the-counter skin bleaching products do not contain hydroquinone. They often contain lactic acid, licorice root or vitamin C. Other products contain a combination of those and other ingredients, as well.
Natural
Lemon juice is a natural astringent that has been used as a skin lightener for decades. As it's an astringent, it may be extremely drying to the skin. To use it, apply four or five drops of lemon juice directly to the skin, avoiding the eye area. After the juice has been absorbed into the skin, which should take about seven minutes, apply a rich moisturizer.
People with sensitive or extremely dry skin should not use this method, as it may be drying as well as irritating to the skin.
Controversy
There is controversy surrounding the use of hydroquinone. The FDA has approved it for use in the United States but has not been able to prove that it does not have a cancer risk for humans. In studies done with animals, it has been shown to cause mutations that can lead to cancer.
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