Many factors, from just plain old genetics to the sun, can be our enemies when it comes to having even and smooth skin. You may not be able to control these elements, but when it comes to correcting your skin coloring, you might want to make sure you’re using products with the right ingredients.
Let’s have a close look at some harsh skin whitening chemicals that you should avoid:
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) or Sodium Lauryl sulfate (SLS)
It’s widely used in almost 90 percent of the cleaning and personal care products. SLS’s are known to be lung, skin, and eye irritants. They can possibly interact and combine with many other chemicals to form deadly nitrosamines, a carcinogen. The use of products with this chemical can lead to many other issues such as respiratory and kidney damages. Besides skin whitening products, they are also used in mascara, body wash, shampoos, and acne treatments.
Mercury
As we already know, this element is highly toxic. It has been phased out from many beauty products and is even banned in many countries as an ingredient in cosmetics which makes it all the more surprising that some skin bleaching products on the market still contain a lot of mercury.
When applied to the skin, this element can cause discoloration, skin rashes, and scarring, and can also reduce skin’s ability to resist various infections. When ingested, or when regularly used on the skin, it can seep into your internal system, causing various issues in the nervous system, brain, and kidneys.
Hydroquinone
It is the most harmful and common ingredients used in some skin bleaching products. It not only causes quick skin damage but also using it over time can make your skin less capable of protection against harmful UVB and UVA rays from the sun, meaning a greater likelihood of skin cancer and sunburns. Even though hydroquinone is popular, it’s safe to stay away from it and opt for safer options.
Mineral oil
It is little known harsh skin whitening chemicals used widely in many skin whitening products. It can dry out your skin and may even lead to premature aging.
Other chemicals such as Benzoyl peroxide, parabens, hydrogen peroxide are also used in some skin bleaching creams, and should be avoided.
Final thoughts
While we’re all interested in clear and smooth skin, it should not come at the cost of our health. So, double check the ingredients in skin bleaching products you’re considering, and make sure there are no harsh chemicals in it. There are many natural alternatives available, and with ingredients such as alpha-hydroxyl, kojic acid, vitamin C and alpha-arbutin, you’re surely on the way to bright, beautiful, and healthy skin!