Whether it is the perceived notion that a fairer (lighter) complexion will improve one's social and economic status quo or the desire to have an even complexion, the use of skin lightening creams is on the increase.
With a large number of these creams having mercury derivatives, hydroquinone and tropical steroids, it is imperative that one is aware of the dangers of using products with these ingredients.

The use of mercury based skin whitening products is probably the most discussed.
The immediate effects of mercury based products is rashes, skin irritation and changes to the skin.

While this might seem like a little pain to achieve a desired effect, the long term effects are more damaging and harder if not impossible to reverse.
Continued exposure to mercury can cause damage to the brain, the nervous system, ataxia, speech and hearing impediments and kidney problems.

It can also be extremely toxic to unborn babies, for while the mother may not show symptoms of poisoning the foetus could become poisoned resulting in brain damage and other abnormalities.

Hydroquinone does not bleach the skin; it limits the output of melanin. By altering the skins structure and inhibiting the production of melanin, you are taking away its natural protection making it more susceptible to skin cancer.

Prolonged use of hydroquinone will cause a blue- black discolouration to the skin caused by ochre- coloured pigment.
Hydroquinone thickens collagen fibres damaging the connective tissue resulting in rough blotchy skin.

Topical steroid products increase the chances of eczema, bacterial and fungal infections. They can cause Cushing's syndrome, acne, skin atrophy and pigmentation disorders.
After any of the above occurring ones skin is bound to look older than it really is.

With most of the effects not appearing immediately and with some having similarities to known disease patterns, they can quite often be misdiagnosed mainly because people will not admit to using skin lightening creams.

If you think you might have mercury, hydroquinone poisoning from using certain skin lighting products please see a doctor.
Before deciding on skin lightening products, visit a skin care clinic and inquire about safe products to use.
Next time when you pick up a jar of skin lightening cream, take time to read the ingredients and consider if it is really worth it.

There are products on the market with natural ingredients that are kinder to the skin and the body, while they are more expensive, they are a better alternative.
However, one should also consider whether a lighter skin is really worth all the bother.

Learn more about this author, Helen Bakojja.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

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