Tired of dealing with an uneven complexion? Want to find an effective way to lighten scars and blemishes that just won’t go away? Skin lightening presents many alternatives that can help you achieve even toned skin and fade unsightly scars. Pregnant women suffering from melasma and hyperpigmentation can also find relief in skin lightening products. Find out how skin lightening can benefit your skin’s needs.

Not all skin lightening treatments produce scary results (think Michael Jackson as the worst case scenario). If you’ve been looking for a way to safely lighten your skin and correct discoloration or other skin problems, there are plenty of products out on the market that are available over-the-counter or can be prescribed by your doctor.

To clear up any confusion, skin lighteners and skin whiteners are the same and the terms are often used interchangeably. Skin lighteners use special ingredients that either reduce the production of melanin (the pigments responsible for the color of your skin), or prevent UV rays from darkening the skin by absorbing the rays. The most widely used ingredients in skin lighteners include hydroquinone, arbutin, azealic acid, licorice extract, ascorbic acid, and kojic acid. Recent studies show that vitamin C also prevents the production of melanin, spawning more varieties of skin lightening formulas containing vitamin C. These products come in the forms of gels, creams and lotions.

Skin lightening products are ideal if you wish to fade scars from past accidents or acne breakouts, treat conditions of hyperpigmentation such as melasma, even out blotchy skin, or heal blemishes that have left an area of discoloration. Those who suffer from skin disorders like vitiligo (when the skin’s melanin production is lost, causing large, white patches of color on the skin) are often prescribed high concentration skin whitening formulas to achieve a more uniform appearance in skin tone. These products contain a specific percentage of concentration clearly stated on its label, such as 2% or 0.05%. It’s important to read the labels of any over-the-counter skin lighteners you buy to avoid a negative reaction or exposing your skin to ingredients that can be too harsh. Each person’s skin reacts differently so never assume that what works for one person will work the same for you.

Before purchasing any skin lightening product, it’s best to consult with your doctor first. If you have a particular skin condition that needs treatment, your doctor will prescribe you the proper medication to lighten your skin, instead of spending your money on over-the-counter products that may not work. Most skin lightening treatments take time to work so don’t expect to see results overnight. If you experience side effects or an allergic reaction, stop using the product immediately and see your doctor.

Related Articles
	The FDA on Hydroquinone Hydroquinone is one of the most widely used ingredients in just about every skin lightening product on the market. However, information has come to light that has caused the FDA to ban the use of hydroquinone in skin lightening products. What is the cause of the ban and what does that mean   ...Read more		Underarm Discoloration Underarm discoloration is an embarrassing skin issue that can cause anyone to be afraid of wearing sleeveless tops, bathing suits or other articles of clothing that expose this area. Many people, especially women, are so ashamed of their condition that they refuse to do any activity that   ...Read more