Harmful Efects Of Bleaching Or Whitening Your Skin

Skin bleaching which is also known as skin lightening or skin whitening is using products such as soaps, oils, lotions, injections and other cosmetic procedures to reduce melanin in the skin.

Some people use this products to treat medical conditions such as hyperpigmentation but many people use them for purely cosmetic reasons.

Medical experts and dermatologists usually warn that prolonged exposure to these skin lightening products can have serious health effects especially when they contain harmful substances.

Harmful substances such as mercury, hydroquinone or corticosteroids cause long term damage to the skin especially with prolonged use.

Harmful Substances

In some countries some of these products are usually banned in cosmetic products because of their potential health risks and harm that they could cause.

One of the most common effects of bleaching the skin is skin thinning. Products that contain those harmful substances can weaken the skin and make it fragile.

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When the skin weakens, it also becomes prone to bruising, tearing and also wounds not healing or taking time to do so. The skin could also develop visible blood vessels and stretch marks.

Another major side effect of bleaching is increased sensitivity to sunlight. Melanin helps to protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Sunburns

When one reduces melanin from the skin, it becomes vulnerable to sunburn, premature ageing and increased risk of skin damage caused by UV rays.

Skin bleaching can also trigger a range of skin complications. Other users may develop severe acne, irritation, redness itching and allergic reactions.

Other users may experience uneven skin tone, where patches of the skin become lighter while other parts are dark creating an appearance that can be very difficult to reverse.

Skin experts and dermatologists note that skin bleaching or whitening may highly increase the risk of skin infections, when the skin thins it becomes more prone to infections.

Kidney Disorders

Health authorities have also raised concerns over time about products that contain mercury. It can be absorbed into the skin over time and can cause kidney damage and disorders.

On the same note excessive or prolonged use of hydroquinone can possibly lead to a condition which is known as exogenous ochronosis where the skin becomes darkened and develops blue-black pigmentation.

Beyond physical health there are also other factors associated with bleaching which include societal beauty standards, colourism and self image.

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Dermatologists usually recommend individuals who are seeking treatment for skin conditions including melasma, hyperpigmentation and acne scars to consult qualified healthcare professionals.

As many women especially in Kenya continue using skin bleaching agents what they also call “mikorogo” health experts advise them to consult a medical professional to avoid conditions that can be irreversible.

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A sample of skin bleaching products PHOTO/Reddit