Skin Lightening Creams: What Are Your Options?
Cavyl Stewart
Skin lightening creams can be used to reduce the appearance of skin blemishes, like moles. It can also be used by those suffering from uneven pigmentation (where one area is darker or lighter than the area right next to it), to even out the skin tones, and give the skin a more uniform look.
Many different ingredients are used in different skin lightening products. Here are a few of the most common ones.
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
Like hydroquinone, licorice extract can inhibit the production of melanin. However, it doesn't seem to come with the same health risks. In fact, it is often recommended to those who want to use a lightening product, but who have skin too sensitive for other ingredients.
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
Arbutin is a substance found in the leaves of some berries, like blueberries, mulberries, and cranberries. This substance can also be found in peaches.
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
Kojic acid is a byproduct of the process used to create sake, the popular Japanese rice wine. It is an effective lightener that is easier on sensitive skin than some other ingredients. However, there are concerns about the possible health risks of using kojic acid.
Azelaic Acid
If you have ever had acne, you may have used products that contained azelaic acid. While it can be effective against that skin condition, there are also signs it can help diminish skin discolorations.
Mercury
While mercury can lighten the skin, it can also be toxic. When choosing skin lightening creams, avoid those that contain this chemical.
When it comes to skin lightening creams, there are many alternatives. Make sure you research your options, and then choose the product that's right for you.
And now I'd like to invite you to visit my blog for more free articles, tips and reviews on skin care treatments and conditions including http://skincaretreatmenttips.com/revitol-brightener) skin lightening creams.Author, Cavyl Stewart - http://www.skincaretreatmenttips.com
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