Safe Skin Lightening

What Skin Lightening Can Do for You

Tips for Safe Skin Lightening

Hi!

I have found this site to be extremely informative and I have a concern, so here goes.

1. Do skin lighteners have any effect on collagen and the dermal layer of the skin?

2. I am currently using skin lightening lotions on my body to get rid of blotchiness, unwanted tan, scars, and to get at least two shades lighter. My original skin tone is dark brown. Will lightening cause my skin to thin and give stretch marks?

3. Can I lighten my body long term (for years) if I use safe products and how do I maintain/keep my new skin color if achieved without damaging my skin? Is it possible or am I hopeless in this battle for keeping a clear even skin tone?

I look forward to your answers.

Thank you so much.

Keesha

I'm glad you're finding Ageless Beauty to be helpful. Thank you for writing.

Do Skin Lighteners Have Any Effect On Collagen And The Dermal Layer Of The Skin?

Skin lightening ingredients found in legitimate* OTC products work to reduce the skin's melanin production.

Melanin production takes place in the topmost layer of the skin, the epidermis. As you note, collagen (as well as elastin) are found in the next deeper layer, the dermis.

Will Skin Lighteners Cause Skin To Thin?

There are many safe and effective skin lightening ingredients, but patience is required to see results.

The ingredients available in OTC skin lightening products are generally regarded to be safe and pose no danger to collagen in the dermis.

Skin lightening medications are a different matter and should only be used under a medical professional's supervision.

Higher concentrations of hydroquinone found in prescription products can be irritating to the skin.

Some formulations combine hydroquinone with corticosteroids to control the inflammation.

Cortisone can damage collagen and cause thinning of the skin.

Since I am not a doctor, consult a qualified dermatologist for more information.

Read more about The Basics of Skin Lightening and Monitoring for Pre-Malignancies here.

Can I Permanently Lighten My Whole Body'S Skin Safely?

In my opinion, no.

As for unwanted tanning, your best bet is prevention.

UV exposure is the one melanin stimulating factor you can control quite effectively. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen religiously when you are using skin lightening creams and - really - for the rest of your life.

Here are some tips to assure you are getting Sufficient Sun Protection.

As for blotchiness and scars, you may find this article on Dealing with Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation helpful.

You might consider Laser Treatments for the scars as well.

* Be sure to read Some Things to Avoid in Your Search for a Fairer Skin.

After reading the above, I hope you've concluded that overall skin lightening is simply not worth it. Love the skin you're in. If it's healthy, be grateful ;-)

This article does not purport to offer medical advice, but only to provide background information.