by Cherryl Floyd-Miller

Created on: January 30, 2008

The most common reason African-Americans need fade creams is hyperpigmentation, a cosmetic condition that causes dark spots on the skin.

This abnormalcy that also affects darker Asian, Native American, African, Hispanic and South Asian populations results in splotches and uneven skin tones can be caused by sun damage, inflammation, scars from skin injuries, acne.

Because of the close distribution of melanocytes in darker skin types, irritation and swelling can cause the melanacytes to react and produce darker pigment.

Dermatologists have chosen dermabrasion, laser treatments and bleaching agents to combat scarring and spotting.

At times, fading creams have been a stigma in the African-American community. Some use the products to lighten their overall complexions to become more white-appearing. This ritual has drawn a lot of flack from those who say it is an attempt to "be" more like whites. Colored contact lenses, long blonde hair/wigs, and hair straighteners have drawn the same controversies.

Traditionally, however, African-Americans who legitimately want to fade dark spots have selected their own over-the-counter remedies for an even blend. The key is knowing your skin type and doing a patch test to guard against allergic reactions.

One of the things many fade cream users have noticed is a browning of some brands over a period of time. The white cream form of normal fading agents reacts to light and become discolored. This might also happen if you have had the cream for too long. Check good-use dates and discard creams that have expired.

Among the most popular fade cream brands have been Ambi Fade Cream (about $5), a long-time favorite that contains vitamin E, alpha hydroxy acid and sunscreen; Nadinola Skin Discoloration Fade Cream known to fight dark spots from oral contraceptives; Esoterica, a light-weight, non-greasy cream that also acts as a great sunscreen; and Porcelana, formulated to work at night and contains antioxidants and botanical extracts for firming skin.

Some others which have had favorable results among consumers include:

- Palmer's Skin Success Fade Cream ($5.59)

Palmer's contains vitamin C and E, both known to naturally promote even skin tones. In addition to the fade cream, there is an oil that helps reduce stretch marks.

- MaMa Lotion ($15.00)

Non-irritating, MaMa Lotion gives a high-potent anti-inflammatory guard for users and aides in hyperpigmentation prevention. The lotion helps to increase collagen production in the skin and helps slow and prevent

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