AskDocDoc
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #14153
9 days ago
55

skin lighting cream - #14153

Dhruv

I am really worried about my skin lately. I’ve been trying out this new skin lighting cream I found online because I felt like my complexion was a bit uneven. At first, I thought it was working. I noticed some changes, but then I started to get these weird patches on my skin. Like, one side of my face is getting lighter but not in a good way, and the other side looks like it’s kind of splotchy? I ran out of the cream and couldn’t find it anywhere, so I switched to something that said it was a “natural skin lighting cream.” Was that a mistake? I mean, like, can too much use of any skin lighting cream actually damage your skin over time? I’m also getting a bit itchy around my cheeks, which is freaking me out. A couple of my friends say that skin lighting cream is just bad news overall, but I just thought it’d help me look a little more even. Is there a point when using a skin lighting cream becomes harmful? I just wanna have nice skin! Anyone experiences something like this? Just really trying to figure out if I should keep using the stuff or toss it out for good.

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

Skin lightening creams can sometimes cause skin issues, especially if they’re not used correctly or contain harmful ingredients. What you’re experiencing could be due to one of those problematic components, like hydroquinone or even strong steroids, which can cause skin irritation or unevenness if overused. Yes, using too much of any skin lightening cream can potentially harm your skin. The fact that you’re seeing some patchiness and itching suggests that your skin is reacting, possibly having an allergic reaction or irritation from one or more ingredients in the cream. Generally speaking, products containing certain ingredients can lead to thinning of the skin, increase sensitivity to sunlight, or can paradoxically cause even more pigmentation problems, a condition known as ochronosis.

It’s advisable to stop using the product immediately and seek alternatives that are safer. Look for products with labels such as “fragrance-free” or “for sensitive skin,” and make sure to check for non-comedogenic items, as they’re less likely to clog pores. It’s important to consider that natural doesn’t always mean safe for everyone, as some natural ingredients can still cause adverse reactions depending on your skin type. While you might be tempted to keep trying different creams, it’s crucial to give your skin a break and let it heal.

If these issues persist, consulting a dermatologist would be a good next step, as they can help pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms and recommend suitable treatment options. They can also guide you in selecting skin care products that are both effective and safe for your complexion. In the meantime, a simple skincare routine with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen might help maintain the health of your skin.

4891 answered questions
65% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions