Tips for a Fairer and Lighter Skin
How you can achieve lighter skin without bleaching
Whitening products still account for a large portion of skincare products around the world, and more so in Asia. With many of these products advertising a light pinkish skin results within as fast as 7 days. Supplements and over the counter products by pharmaceutical companies have also taken over the retail space offering similar if not “more effective” products.
With the advancement of science and technology in cosmetics and skincare, more products are becoming safer to use over a long period of time. Each passing trials and testing to achieve a fairer skin complexion, reduce dark spots and improve skin that has been damaged by UV rays. In this short blog we’ll discuss the different ingredients to look out for, products to use and things to consider for a fairer complexion.
How do I make my skin lighter?
When considering the topic of achieving a lighter skin tone, we first have to look at a variety of factors as many factors play a role in the complexion of our skin tone. Factors like lifestyle plays a huge role. How much one is exposed to the sun, stress, smoking or one’s diet are things to consider while on the topic of achieving lighter skin as well. For example, stress, pollution and UV rays can lead to hyperpigmentation which invariably is the opposite effect for a fairer skin complexion.
Products and the ingredients formulated within them also play a vital role in skin lightening. Products with vitamin C, brightening agents like niacinamide and arbutin as well as exfoliants can aid in brightening up the skin.
What causes our skin to darken?
The main cause of color change in our skin is due to melanin. Melanin is produced in the melanocytes. Melanin production happens in order to protect our skin from UV rays and is responsible for the antioxidants that help inhibit oxidative stress from UV light damage. Other factors also include production of melanin from scarring of the skin or inflammation.
Ingredients to look out for when buying lightening creams
With the various claims being made by multiple skincare companies, one should watch out for ingredients that may have a long term effect on health. Ingredients like mercury should be avoided at all costs as mercury is able to cause mercury poisoning on the skin. Mercury could cause neurological damage and long term effects like depression, anxiety, problems with reproduction and children’s early development.
With the advancement of science and technology, there are many alternatives to mercury. Each having its own benefits and can be a long term solution to those that desire a lighter skin complexion.
Azelaic acid is excellent for stopping discolored cells from spreading. The ingredient has been used for some time now and has proven to be great for lightening and brightening the skin. Azelaic acid is often used to lighten up dark spots caused by acne.
Arbutin is also one of the more modern ingredients when it comes to tackling the hyperpigmentation problem. Arbutin is a derivative of hydroquinone, one of the most popular ingredients when it comes to lightening the skin. However, unlike hydroquinone, arbutin does not irritate the skin and does not have the same toxicity as hydroquinone.
Kojic acid has been used in conjunction with arbutin to boost the effects of lightening. Kojic acid is often made from natural sources and can be an alternative for those looking for an all natural solution to lightening their skin.
Lactic acid is often used in peels or exfoliants to help lighten up the skin. The after effects of lactic acid often last quite long and do not have any significant long term side effects if used correctly.
Niacinamide or vitamin B3 is great at decreasing hyperpigmentation in the skin and creating a lighter effect of the skin after weeks of use. Many research studies have proven this and is used in various products currently.
Vitamin C is also considered an excellent source of antioxidants that can be used with another ingredient like arbutin to enhance the effects of lightening. A vitamin C serum can be the solution to many looking for a long term solution.
Skincare routine for lighter skin?
Your skincare routine also plays a big role in how your skin looks. Those looking for a more youthful, fairer and lighter skin complexion should consider exfoliating at least once a week. Exfoliation can help reduce the dullness seen on the skin and in effect brighten up the skin. Chemical peels (under the right concentration) and micro abrasion are both brilliant techniques. Take a few hours off to take care of your skin. An antioxidant mask is also another soothing and relaxing way to brighten your skin and calm your senses.
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