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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #17173
81 days ago
145

face bleaching cream - #17173

Nisha

I am really confused about this whole face bleaching cream thing. I mean, I’ve been seeing all these ads online and some friends say they’ve used face bleaching cream and it worked wonders for them. But here’s the thing, I used a popular face bleaching cream for a few weeks because I wanted to lighten some dark spots from acne scars, and honestly, I’m not sure if it’s doing anything good for me. I've noticed my skin feeling way drier, and some days I get these weird red patches. My sister tried a different face bleaching cream and ended up looking like a tomato. I really thought face bleaching cream was supposed to be safe, but now I'm scared I might be making my skin worse. How do you even know if a face bleaching cream is the right one? Plus, are there specific ingredients I should watch out for, or steer clear off? I feel like I’m in a weird skin battle here, and I just want something to actually help. Aren't there side effects to these products? Should I just give up on the whole face bleaching cream idea or is there a way to use it without messing up my skin? Would love any advice, cause I’m really feeling stuck here!

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Doctors' responses

When it comes to face bleaching creams, you’re definitely not alone in your confusion. These products are often marketed as safe and effective for lightening dark spots, but they can have some hidden risks, especially if not used cautiously. It’s imperative to know what’s in the cream you’re using. Hydroquinone and corticosteroids are common ingredients in many bleaching products. Generally, over-the-counter creams can contain up to 2% hydroquinone, but long-term use can lead to ochronosis, a bluish-black discoloration that’s ironically difficult to reverse. Corticosteroids can also cause thinning of the skin and increased risk of infection or redness, like the patches you’re describing. Another ingredient to be wary of is mercury, which is sometimes found in unauthorized or imported creams and is harmful. If you’re experiencing adverse effects like dryness or redness, it’s time to reevaluate.

Consider patch testing before using any new product extensively on your face—apply a small amount on your inner arm and wait 24-48 hours to check for reactions. If you continue experiencing irritation, it would be wise to discontinue the product and consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist can offer safer alternatives like prescription-grade treatments or advise on other methods such as chemical peels or laser therapy that might be more effective and safer for your skin type.

Additionally, adopting a good skincare routine with SPF is essential, as sun exposure can worsen pigmentation. Incorporating gentle acids like glycolic or salicylic acid in your routine enough can improve skin texture without the harsh effects. If it’s dark spots from acne, ensure you’re addressing the acne itself with appropriate treatments. It’s generally beneficial to focus on a comprehensive approach to skin health—rather than just tackling spots or discoloration—safety and professional guidance should be the priorities. If what you’re experiencing doesn’t improve, don’t hesitate to reach out to a skincare professional.

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