bleach is good for face or not - #20346
I am really confused about something and could use some advice. I've been doing a lot of research and came across people saying bleach is good for face or not, and honestly, I have no idea who to believe! A month ago, I tried a DIY skin treatment that involved some sort of bleach, thinking it’d help with these dark spots I’ve had forever. At first, it seemed to work, my skin was looking brighter for a bit, but then I started seeing some redness and irritation. I seriously don’t want to mess up my face, especially since I have an important event coming up and want my skin to look its best. My friend told me that bleach is good for face or not, it just depends on the type you choose—whatever that means. Is there a certain kind of bleach that’s safe for skin? I feel like I just jumped down a rabbit hole of conflicting information! And now I'm worried if using any form of bleach is worth the risk. Can someone please share their experiences or knowledge? I just want to figure out if bleach is good for face or not before I make any decisions that could really screw things up. Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
Bleach is typically not recommended for use on the face, and it can cause significant skin irritation and damage. The term “bleach” can refer to various products, but generally, household bleach, which contains sodium hypochlorite, is particularly harsh and damaging for skin due to its strong chemical properties. When some people talk about “bleach” in the context of facial treatments, they may refer to products containing skin lightening or bleaching agents, usually designed to reduce pigmentation, like hydroquinone. However, even these are not without risks and should be used cautiously under the guidance of a healthcare professional or dermatologist. The redness and irritation you experienced could be a sign of skin damage or sensitivity to the treatment you tried. To avoid further irritation, it’s advised to cease using any harsh substances and focus on gentle skincare routine. Prioritize moisturizers, sunscreen, and products containing ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin C, which can help with pigmentation over time without being aggressive on the skin. To prepare for your upcoming event, give your skin time to recover and heal by stopping any potentially harmful DIY treatments. Consider consulting a dermatologist, particularly if the redness persists or you experience discomfort, as they can provide more personalized advice and safe treatment options for your dark spots and other skin concerns. Leaving such decisions in the hands of experts can prevent long-term damage and help in achieving healthy skin.
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