5 Negative Side Affects of Bleaching Your Skin
Let's educate for a minute..
Lighter skin has been glamorized and idolized in widespread countries, cultures and societies all around the world over the last few decades. These countries include: India, Brazil, Jamaica, and specifically African countries like Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia and Nigeria; just to name a few.
As a result, the demand for skin lightening creams has more than doubled throughout the years, opening a huge market place for skin lightening companies. Skin Lightening companies target primarily women, ideally young women to lighten their skin and women typically fall for their guarantees and promises.
Well, why? There isn't one simple reason to why, some reasons run deeper and farther back into history. But other reasons might be to hold higher positions in society, be more respected among peers, getting married into a wealthy and respected family in some cultures or to just fit into societies standards and expectations of beauty.
In 2013, a study by the University of Cape Town found that more than 1/3 of women in South Africa (35%) consume skin lightening products and since, the number has risen by more than 10 percent in the last 3 years.
But what are the side affects of over using skin bleachers overtime? Or is there even any side affects?
We'll lets find out...
1. Skin Cancer
Skin bleachers contain a very toxic chemical called Hydroquinone; this is the actual skin lightening component.
It is used by doctors to cure Melasma which is a condition where black and dark spots appear in the face. Oddly, it's also used in the development of photography.
A build up of Hydroquinone on the skin causes skin cancer because it makes the skin more vulnerable to UV rays. This is because of it's skin thinning side affect which exposes the skin rather than protecting it.
2. Kidney Failure
Most skin bleachers contain high concentrations of mercury. Mercury is a very toxic chemical usually found within compounds and inorganic salts.
Using harsh bleachers consistently not only puts you at risk for kidney damage, but other major organs at risk such as liver failure due to high levels of mercury in your body.
3. Dark or Black Spots
Melanin is "a dark brown to black pigment occurring in the hair, skin, and iris of the eye in people and animals." Due to the harsh chemicals that prevent melanin in your skin from producing, over time, when so little melanin is produced, blotches of black spots appear in areas of your skin. Ironic isn't it?
4. Acne
Again due to the harsh chemicals skin bleaching can cause severe acne in the face and various rashes. This is a way of your body having an allergic reaction and you should stop or you might lead your self to a dark path to skin cancer.
Stop while you're ahead.
5. Stretch Marks
Last but certainly not least using bleaching creams will cause stretch marks! Your skin is stretched and thinned out due to the Hydroquinone involved.
But if you must use a skin lightener, or feel the need to use one for whatever reason, always consult your dermatologist before using any product. And remember to stay away from harsh chemicals.