Important Whitening Cream Information
When shopping for a skin whitening cream it is important to be familiar with a few terms:
Hyperpigmentation – the darkening of an area of the skin caused by an increase in melanin. There are a multitude of causes. Hyperpigmentation can be epidermal, dermal, or mixed (referring to the layer of skin affected). Knowing the type of hyperpigmentation you have will help you in choosing a whitening cream.
Melasma – Just a general term for the darkening of the skin
Chloasma – generally describes skin discolorations caused by hormones.
Solar lentignes – dark spots caused by the sun.
Hydroquinone – a key ingredient in many whitening creams. It is considered by dermatologists to be safe and as effective as lasers or deep peel treatments. However it has been shown to cause leukemia in mice. And can cause an allergic reaction in humans. As a result it’s not sold is concentrations of more than 2% in the U.S.
Arbutin – Often used as a replacement for hydroquinone although it is actually a derivative of it. Mitracarpus scaber, bearberry extract, mulberry, white mulberry, paper mulberry, all contain arbutin which inhibits melanin production.
Here we will quickly give a quick overview of some of the most prominent skin whitening creams.
Meladerm –Claims to lighten the pigment of the skin after approximately two weeks. It has natural ingredients and therefore can be used for months without negative effects. In other words it doesn’t contain a harsh bleaching agent such as hyrdorquinone. However, it only works on epidermal hyper pigmentation. Don’t confuse with another whitening cream called Melederm. Good on all skin types but expensive.
Skin Bright – “gently but effective natural ingredients” which includes arbutin. Works by penetrating deep into skin. It is also good on all skin types, but is most effective on epidermal hyperpigmentation.
Triluma – Takes approximately 4-8 weeks to take affect. This cream has been found to be very effective. When using this cream you can still use cosmetics and moisturizers. It is available as prescription only. Pregnant and nursing women as well as those over 65 are not able to use this whitening cream..
Nivea Whitening Lotion – Popular because it’s inexpensive. This cream has received mixed reviews. No dramatic results were noted, but some users noticed an evening out of their skin tone, lighter freckles etc.
Whitening creams can be very effective in minimizing unwanted dark areas on the body. When choosing a cream first determine what kind of spot you have, and if possible what caused it. If it is a large or deep area it is wise to consult with a dermatologist before purchasing a product.
