Both men and women can use skin discoloration cream to lighten the imperfections of their skin to enhance their appearance. This cosmetic product is designed to mask the effects of blemishes, sun damage, melasma, and many others. Discoloration, freckles, and other unwanted conditions affecting the skin can also be masked using this cream.
Uses
Age spots tend to be treated through the use of discoloration cream. Conditions such as melasma, or dark blemishes caused by harsh UV rays, can be remedied with these products as well. Sometimes, discoloration cream is referred to as banishing cream, and cases of frequent acne and severe scarring have been masked with this cream. An additional benefit is that it is also effective as a moisturizer.
Some variations of skin discoloration cream were specifically designed to whiten the skin. Skin whitening can be performed by using skin lightening lotion or cream. This cosmetic lightening is generally used by individuals who have skin damage causing darkened spots. Many individuals who wish to change the shade of their natural skin tone may wish to use skin whitening products as well.
Skin discoloration cream functions by lowering or suppressing the body’s production of melanin. Melanin is the pigmentation that gives color to skin. Tyrosinase, an enzyme that dictates the color of skin, may also be affected by skin discoloration creams as well. Other products may work by simply bleaching the skin white, which can also reduce pigmentation.
How it Affects Your Health
There are various controversies and health concerns regarding skin whitening products. Many of the ingredients used to achieve the lightened appearance have been discovered to be potentially harmful to humans. For instance, hydroquinone and mercury, both toxic chemicals, are primary ingredients found in various whitening products. Furthermore, mercury poisoning, skin irritation, liver damage, and kidney failure can arise when these products are used too often. Another side effect is a greater sensitivity to sunlight.
Many other ingredients tend to be found in skin discoloration products. Alpha hydroxyl acid and vitamin E are frequently included. Another beneficial additive is sunscreen, which protects skin from turning dark due to UV rays affecting the melanin in the skin.
Physicians encourage individuals who have achieved their skin whitening goals to stop using discoloration cream at once. Most also discourage bleaching large sections of skin, and recommend that only small areas of discoloration should be treated at a time just to be on the safe side. Similar to other whitening procedures, like teeth or hair bleaching, skin lightening will take weeks to see results. Most whitening procedures take at least four to six weeks, though bigger areas may require up to six months to see the best results.