Skin Whitening
Skin lightening, or skin bleaching, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to lighten dark areas of skin or achieve a generally paler skin tone.
It’s usually used to improve the appearance of blemishes such as birthmarks and dark patches (melasma).
Skin-lightening procedures work by reducing the concentration or production of melanin in the skin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its colour and helps protect it from the sun.
The main techniques used to lighten the skin include:
- skin-lightening creams
- laser treatment
Trying a skin-lightening procedure is a major decision. It can be expensive, time-consuming, and the results cannot be guaranteed.
If you’re thinking of going ahead, be absolutely sure about your reasons for wanting to try it and do not rush into it.
It’s a good idea to discuss your plans with a GP first. They might talk to you about your reasons for wanting to lighten your skin, and there might be a medical reason why the procedure is not appropriate for you.
Skin-lightening techniques can result in serious side effects and complications. People with dark skin tones are particularly at risk of these problems.