Skin Lightening Creams: What Are Your Options?

Who can benefit from using skin lightening creams? Well, if you have uneven pigmentation, where patches of skin are lighter or darker than others, you could use a lightening cream to even out your skin tone. And if you have skin blemishes, like moles or other discolorations, a lightening product can help to make them less visibly noticeable, or even get rid of them altogether.

Different skin lighteners contain different ingredients. Some are more effective than others. And some come with greater benefits. Or, in some cases, greater risks.

Hydroquinone

A lot of lightening products don't actually bleach the skin. Instead, they inhibit the production of melanin, the substance that adds color to your skin. And one of these melanin inhibitors is hydroquinone.

Some believe hydroquinone is one of the most effective skin lightening ingredients. However, many are concerned about possible health risks. In fact, hydroquinone has been banned in some countries.

Licorice Extract

While it is a melanin inhibitor much like hydroquinone, licorice extract doesn't seem to carry the same health risks. Also, for those whose skin is too sensitive to use some of the other lightening ingredients, licorice extract is often recommended.

Vitamin C

Due to its many benefits, vitamin C is being added to more and more beauty products. When used as a skin lightener, vitamin C (or ascorbic acid) is applied to the skin topically, either as a powder or as a serum.

Arbutin

This melanin inhibiting ingredient comes from the leaves of certain fruits, like cranberries, blueberries, and mulberries. Arbutin can also be found in pears.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Alpha hydroxy acids (or AHAs) are found in many over the counter products, as well as in some chemical peels performed by dermatologists and plastic surgeons.

Along with inhibiting melanin production, alpha hydroxy acids remove unhealthy, discolored skin cells. As a result, you will be left with fewer blemishes and skin discolorations.

Over the counter AHA's can help make blemishes less visible and noticeable. But alpha hydroxy acid peels tend to have more dramatic results. However, if you have dry or sensitive skin, you should probably stay away from alpha hydroxy acid peels.

Kojic Acid

This by-product of the process used to create sake (Japanese rice wine) has been found to be an effective lightener. It is also recommended for those with sensitive skin, who can't use hydroquinone. However, there are also concerns about the possible health risks of kojic acid.

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid has been used in acne treatments. And it also been found to help decrease skin discolorations.

Mercury

Don't use creams that contain mercury. While it can lighten the skin, mercury is also toxic.

The world of skin lightening creams is filled with options. Make sure you do some research on the ingredients used in these products, so you can use the skin lightener that's right for you.

Article Source: http://www.search4allinfo.com

And now I'd like to invite you to visit my blog for more free articles, tips and reviews on skin products and conditions including skin lightening treatments. Author, Cavyl Stewart - www.skincaretreatmenttips.com

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