Skin bleaching is a widely practiced phenomenon across the world. The process is considered to have numerous advantages, such as brighter or lighter skin, treatment of acne and skin diseases, aesthetic enhancement, and fashion, among others. However, most skin bleaching products contain ingredients such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, topical corticosteroids, and mercury, which can have negative side effects on the skin.
Hydroquinone is an ingredient present in most bleaching products that blocks the skin-discoloring processes. It is considered an effective topical ingredient for the prevention of melanin. Melanin is a pigment present in the skin that ranges in color from dark brown to black, resulting in darker skin. Hydroquinone works by stopping its production, leading to lighter skin to the desired shade. It can also be used to treat hyperpigmentation resulting from an acne breakout, age, sunspots, and melasma, which causes darker patches of skin on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. However, it does not remove melanin permanently.
Kojic acid, found in various fungi, is a component present in bleaching creams that treat sun damage, scars, and age spots. This substance functions by preventing the formation of tyrosine, which leads to a reduction in melanin production. It may also lower the risk of getting bacterial skin infections and have microbial advantages.
Topical corticosteroids, commonly known as steroids, are steroid medications applied directly to the skin to treat inflammation and itchiness. They can manage psoriasis, contact dermatitis, and atopic eczema, but they do not offer a lasting solution. They only assist in reducing symptoms.
Mercury is an ingredient in some bleaching products that works as mercurous chloride to render the enzyme that leads to melanin production inactive. However, it is present in more significant quantities in some skin bleaching products.
While these chemicals can be used to treat hyperpigmentation and tone the skin, prolonged use or overuse can have severe effects on the skin. Hydroquinone’s prolonged use can lead to ochronosis, darkening the skin instead of lightening it. When combined with sun exposure, it can also cause the skin to become drier, redder, and more sensitive.
Using kojic acid frequently increases the risk of getting sunburned because it reduces melanin formation, which shields the skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation that could harm it. Another negative effect is contact dermatitis, resulting in skin rashes, itching, and dry spots. In extreme cases, it could lead to blisters and discomfort.
Using topical corticosteroids or steroids frequently can cause adrenal insufficiency, according to research presented at e-ECE 2020. Lower baseline cortisol levels are another indication of the effect, which may lead to excessive fatigue and death when it becomes severe. Repeated application of topical corticosteroids or steroids can cause stretch marks, skin thinning, and easy bruising.
Bleaching products that contain mercury can lead to anxiety, depression, psychosis, and peripheral neuropathy. The skin’s resistance to bacterial and fungal infections may also be reduced. With prolonged use, it may also harm the eyes, cause breathing problems, damage the neurological system, and lead to renal issues.
The saying “prevention is better than cure” applies to skin bleaching. It is best to avoid the use of these bleaching products to save oneself from these negative effects. Those already using it can stop the practice, allowing the skin to regain its natural color, although this may take a longer time. It is essential to understand the negative consequences of skin bleaching and make informed decisions about one’s skin.
Credit: Eunice Dacosta Gyebi
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