Skin Lightening Treatments and Products

Skin lightening is not a common concern to Caucasians however as the World has become more globalized, ethnic groups do see a huge value in having paler skin. This mentality is deeply rooted in history. Traditionally the working classes spend time outside working under the heat of the sun therefore tanning and taking on a darker skin pigmentation. The upper classes spent most of their time indoors which helps them remain paler. This is sometimes referred to as the colonial mentality. Ethnic groups associate the white colonial rulers with racial supremacy and therefore seek to become more like them physically. Now we are past colonial times but after many large migrations to predominantly Caucasian countries many ethnic groups are left with self image issues.

Big cosmetic brands such as Givenchy are now producing skin lightening creams and lotions. This in itself is a massive push for the concept of white is beautiful. The pressure on everyone to look their best is already overwhelming to many without then adding a need to change something which cannot really be changed.

In more recent times Michael Jackson is the biggest story. He became a massive pop star in the so called white western world. Very famously his skin went from very dark to extremely pale. This is very controversial and is shrouded in mystery. Some associate this to a disease but many believe it is the result of cosmetic surgery.

Indian cinema stars are huge and have great influence. India is one of the countries worst affected by the craze for skin lightening treatments. A bollywood star endorsing a skin lightening cream is bound to influence many people to try this. The Bollywood star in question is Shahrukh Khan. The advert features a noticably darker skinned man who is having little success with women. Shahrukh Khan then hands him over some skin lightening cream and mocks him. The following scene shows the same man, now with lighter skin, striding down the road in a very similar manner to John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever, and the girls are now flocking to him. As if that was not a strong enough message, the skin lightening creams name is "Fair and Handsome".

Whilst the company producing the cream claim they are merely responding to market demand many people are critical. The backing of the product by a major star is seen by many as outrageous and immoral. It is a step back in time and really shows that racism and tension between classes is still a major issue. On the flip side some claim it is merely about trying to look your best and see little difference between this and teeth whitening. It is a stark contrast from the western world's adoration for gaining a tan to the point they regularly expose their skin to powerful, harmful UV rays. Tanning is a massive business in the UK and US.

Skin lightening treatments contain all kinds of chemicals and bleaching agents. Some are not legally allowed for use in cosmetics such as hydroquinone or corticosteroids. These are strictly illegal in many countries and people found selling these have been fined over $100 000. The use of hydroquinone has been linked to leukemia. Some side effects of skin lightening treatments include: permanent skin bleaching, thinning of skin, development of visible blood vessels, uneven colour loss leading to a blotchy appearance, redness, intense irritation, and blue-black discolouration of skin.

Dermatologists for the most part believe over the counter, or non prescribed skin lightening treatments can be dangerous and really do not recommend them in any way. This in itself is a big warning flag to anyone who is considering it. If you have used one and noticed any side effects it is recommended you contact you doctor immediately.

Medical uses for skin de-pigmentation include the treatment of vitiligo. This is done under medical supervision only. Moles and birth marks are also treated by skin lightening products. These for the most part are fairly ineffective. Complete body whitening is seen as completely futile.

The use of skin lightening products is often to correct minor aesthetic imperfections such as blotchy, uneven areas, patches of brown to gray discoloration or freckling.