Skin bleaching or lightening is a process in which a person's complexion is intentionally made lighter or whiter through the use of various skin bleaching creams or products. Skin bleaching creams are popular in many parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. While skin bleaching creams are widely available and often promoted as a way to achieve “perfect” skin, they can actually do more harm than good.
Here are 15 harmful effects of skin bleaching creams to your health:
1. Skin Cancer: Skin bleaching creams have been linked to skin cancer. This is because the active ingredient in these creams, hydroquinone, is a potentially carcinogenic substance. High levels of hydroquinone in the body can cause DNA damage and lead to skin cancer.
2. Altered Skin Pigmentation: Using skin bleaching creams can alter the natural pigmentation of your skin, resulting in uneven skin tone and discoloration. This can be especially noticeable in areas such as the face and hands.
3. Acne: Skin bleaching creams can cause acne or worsen existing acne. This is because some of the ingredients in these creams can clog pores and cause skin irritation.
4. Skin Irritation: The use of skin bleaching creams can cause skin irritation and inflammation, leading to redness, itching, and flaking of the skin.
5. Sensitivity to the Sun: Using skin bleaching creams can make your skin more sensitive to the sun's harmful rays. This can lead to sunburn, premature aging of the skin, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
6. Scarring: Skin bleaching creams can cause scarring or hyperpigmentation, especially if they are used improperly or for a prolonged period of time.
7. Skin Infections: Using skin bleaching creams can also increase your risk of developing skin infections. This is because some of the ingredients in these creams can damage the skin’s natural barrier, making it more susceptible to infections.
8. Allergic Reactions: Skin bleaching creams can cause allergic reactions, such as itching, swelling, and redness, especially if you have sensitive skin.
9. Liver and Kidney Damage: Some skin bleaching creams may contain mercury or other harmful substances that can damage your liver and kidneys if absorbed into your bloodstream.
10. Mood and Behavioral Changes: The use of skin bleaching creams may also affect your mood and behavior. Some people who use these creams have reported changes in their mood, behavior, and mental health.
11. Hormonal Imbalance: The use of skin bleaching creams can also disrupt your hormonal balance, leading to a range of health problems, including infertility and menstrual irregularities.
12. Increased Risk of Infections: Skin bleaching creams can also increase your risk of developing bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. This is because some of the chemicals in these creams can damage the skin’s natural barrier, making it more susceptible to infections.
13. Kidney Failure: Excessive use of skin bleaching creams can also lead to kidney failure, as these creams contain potentially harmful chemicals that can damage the kidneys over time.
14. Addiction: Some people who use skin bleaching creams may become addicted to them, causing them to use the cream more frequently and for longer periods of time.
15. Incomplete Results: Even after prolonged use of skin bleaching creams, you may not achieve the desired result. This can cause frustration and dissatisfaction with your appearance, leading to further psychological problems.
The use of skin bleaching creams can be very harmful to your health. Rather than using these products to achieve “perfect” skin, it is recommended that you embrace your natural skin tone and protect it with safe and healthy skin care practices. If you have concerns about your skin tone or appearance, it is best to consult a qualified dermatologist or healthcare professional.