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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #19958
57 days ago
155

skin lightening gel - #19958

Zoya

I am really confused and a bit worried about my skin lately. I’ve been using a skin lightening gel for about three weeks now because I thought it would help with some dark spots I have from acne scars. At first, it seemed to be working, but now my skin feels super dry and itchy, and there’s this weird redness that wasn’t there before. The skin lightening gel says it’s supposed to brighten your skin and even out tone, but is it normal to have these side effects? Like, I really don’t wanna stop using it but "should" I? I actually went to my dermatologist last week, and they suggested I might be having a reaction to one of the ingredients in the skin lightening gel. This has made me wonder if I should try a different one or if I should just stick it out a little longer? Does anyone know what the best practices are when using a skin lightening gel? I keep seeing mixed reviews online, some say they had great results while others ended up with redness and irritation like me. I just want to make sure I’m making the right choice with my skin, you know? Any advice would be super helpful!!

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Doctors' responses

It sounds like you might be experiencing a common reaction to some of the active ingredients often found in skin lightening products like hydroquinone, kojic acid, or other exfoliating agents. These ingredients are effective for treating hyperpigmentation, but they can irritate sensitive skin, leading to dryness, itching, or redness. These side effects are usually a sign that your skin is reacting negatively, especially if these symptoms appeared recently after you’ve started using the gel. The fact that your dermatologist mentioned a potential reaction suggests that it might be wise to pause using the product. Continuing to use a product that causes irritation can potentially worsen the skin condition and lead to further complications, even to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which is the opposite of what you’re trying to achieve. It would be wise to discontinue it for a period and see if your skin calms down. Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to help recover the skin barrier in the meantime. You could also consider speaking with your dermatologist again about alternative treatments or formulations that might be easier on sensitive skin. Sometimes a lower concentration or a product specifically formulated for sensitive skin can provide the same benefits without the discomfort. In general, it’s critical to introduce any new skincare product gradually, perhaps starting with every other night, and observe how your skin responds. On persistent irritation, reconsidering or stopping the product is often the prudent choice. Always prioritize the health and feel of your skin over the desired results, as skin’s tolerance can vary greatly from person to person. If irritation does not subside or worsens, further consultation with your dermatologist is warranted, as they can offer more personalized advice or alternative therapies suited to your specific needs.

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