Skin whitening, also known as skin lightening and bleaching, is the practice of using chemical substances such as creams, oils, soaps, etc., to lighten the skin or provide an even skin color by reducing the melanin concentration in the skin. While there are those who frown upon such procedures, there are many who view them as a saving grace. Not only does skin lightening quickly and efficiently achieve what ‘home remedies’ cannot. It can also give one the satisfaction of being confident in their own skin.
With that in mind, here are a few cosmetic hacks to help you obtain and maintain a fairer, more even complexion.
1. Choose good skin whitening products
These creams restrict the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for tans and sunspots. If you want particular results, ensure that your whitening products are high in quality and easy on your skin. Harsh products are only going to cause more trouble for you. While good skin-lightening products are easy to find, it is always wise to check for allergies or irritation before you start using them. You can do so by carefully reading the ingredients and doing a patch test. Choose a cream that is rich in skin-lightening ingredients (Vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acid, and glycolic acid). Although these creams are safe to use, be sure to follow the instructions given on the package and immediately stop usage in case of a bad reaction. Avoid creams that contain mercury.
2. Use a retinoid cream
Retinoids work by prompting surface skin cells to turn over and die rapidly, making way for new cell growth underneath. Retinoid creams also hamper the breakdown of collagen and thicken the deeper layer of skin, which reduces wrinkles and fine lines, and plumps the skin, making it look younger and brighter. It can also aid in clearing acne if used in a higher concentration.
Initially, these creams will cause your skin some mild irritation such as dryness, flakiness, and redness. But these symptoms do subside in time. If they do not, consult a skin expert as soon as possible. It is also better to apply these creams at night since they make your skin sensitive to sunlight. To purchase retinoid creams, you need a prescription. However, you can opt for a retinol cream, which is a less potent form of retinoid and does not require a prescription.
3. Use sunscreen daily
Although the sun provides us with much-needed vitamins, it can cause major damage to the skin if left unchecked. Whether you are spending your day indoors or outdoors, it is important to apply sunscreen every day. Why indoors? Because even if you’re indoors, if you’re close to a glass window, you still run the risk of exposure to UVA rays and possible skin damage. Better to be safe than sorry. Also, remember that UV rays are also known for causing skin cancer. So make it your habit to apply sunscreen every day. You may also wear a hat and sunglasses for extra protection when you go out.
4. Regularly cleanse and exfoliate
Cleansing helps remove dirt, sweat, and make-up off the skin’s surface. This leaves a clean base with which you can work on afterward. Cleansing your face twice a day removes the dirt and oils from your skin. Exfoliating scrubs away dead skin cells that can also pile up on the skin’s surface. It can soften your skin and allows a fresh layer of skin cells to emerge as dead skin cells are washed away.
5. Moisturize your skin daily
A daily moisturizer is necessary to maintain your skin’s moisture barrier. Moisturizing every day can reduce the chance of developing extreme dryness or oiliness. Both extremes are harmful to the skin and cause common skin conditions like acne. Choose a moisturizer based on your skin type. Daily application will keep your skin soft, supple and maintain its elasticity. A light moisturizing lotion is perfect for oily or blemish-prone skin. On the other hand, dry skin requires heavier moisturizers.
Since this article is about skin lightening you would want to opt for a lotion or cream that hydrates and brightens the skin. Once you decide on a moisturizer that's right for you, remember to switch up products every 4-5 months, taking a 2 month break. For the 2 month break use a milder, more natural skin lightening product to maintain results.
Natural illuminating products are those that contain Alpha Arbutin, Vitamin C, Kojic Acid, etc. It’s important to take a break from strong products that contain hydroquinone after 3 months of use or as directed by your physician. A rule of thumb to remember for safe skin whitening is 5 months on, 2 months off. Apply potent brightening lotions, oils, creams, and serums for no more than 5 months at a time, except for hydroquinone products which have a shorter time limit due to the damage it can cause to the skin. Take a 2 months break using natural brightening ingredients-based products to maintain results.
If you are looking for an online luxury skincare brand in the USA, reach out to us at Laur Skin Solutions. Our purpose for developing Laur Skin Solutions is motivated by love, and what is stronger than love? Nothing! It is our goal that we help all to achieve healthy, youthful, blemish-free skin, restoring one’s confidence and love for their own skin regardless of gender or ethnicity. We ship our face brightening kit and body brightening kit across the USA and the Caribbean.
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