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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #15412
45 days ago
74

face lightening cream - #15412

Kian

I am really worried about my skin lately. For months now, I've been using a face lightening cream that a friend recommended. At first, I thought it was doing wonders since my skin looked brighter and felt smoother! But then, I noticed some weird things happening. Like, I started getting these strange patches that are lighter than the rest of my skin and it’s kinda embarrassing. My main concern is, can a face lightening cream actually cause more harm than good? I've done some googling, and there are tons of scary stories about side effects. I didn't realise that some ingredients could be harmful long term! Plus, I have sensitive skin—should have thought of that before. I wonder if I should stop using it, or is it normal to have some ups and downs with a face lightening cream? My dermatologist didn’t seem too concerned, but now I’m second-guessing everything. Anyone else experienced this or got advice on what’s going on? Should I give it more time, or is there a point where I should just ditch this face lightening cream? Thanks!

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Doctors’ responses

It’s definitely possible for face lightening creams to cause more harm than good, especially if they’re not used cautiously or if the ingredients aren’t suitable for your skin type. Some creams contain ingredients like hydroquinone, corticosteroids, or mercury which can indeed have side effects if used long-term or inappropriately. Considering you have sensitive skin, these creams might cause irritation, exacerbating issues over time like uneven skin tone or pigmentation changes. The lighter patches you’re experiencing could be a form of hypopigmentation, which is when skin lightens excessively, often due to overuse or sensitivity to certain ingredients.

I’d recommend stopping the cream and switching to a gentler skincare routine that suits sensitive skin. Look for products with ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or gentle exfoliants, which can brighten skin without the harsher effects. It’s key to consistently use a broad-spectrum sunscreen too, as many lightening creams can make skin more susceptible to sun damage. Since you mentioned your dermatologist wasn’t overly concerned, perhaps scheduling a follow-up visit could help evaluate any changes and clarify concerns. Provide them with details about the cream and your routine. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve after stopping the cream, you should definitely reach out for a professional assessment. This input on the progression can guide whether you need a different treatment plan. Keep an eye out for any signs of skin inflammation or allergic reaction, which would necessitate more immediate attention. Ultimately, trust your instincts about your skin’s wellbeing.

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