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How Do I Choose the Best Bleaching Face Cream?

By Kathleen Howard
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 19,641
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A bleaching face cream is a topical ointment designed to fade age spots, reduce freckles and lighten the complexion. To choose the best bleaching face cream, select a cream that contains melanin-inhibiting ingredients. Creams containing exfoliating agents like alpha hydroxy acids can also help to lighten the skin. If these products fail to produce the intended results, consult a dermatologist to determine whether a prescription cream might be more beneficial.

Many skin bleaching creams lighten the skin by preventing the production of melanin. One of the most common bleaching agents used in facial care is hydroquinone. Over-the-counter hydroquinone is available in strengths of up to two percent. Stronger formulas containing up to four percent hydroquinone are available by prescription. While hydroquinone is an effective lightening agent, some experts have questioned the safety of using this ingredient over long periods of time.

Retinoid, arbutin, azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide and vitamin C are also effective in lightening the skin. Like hydroquinone, these substances work by slowing the production of melanin. When used on a regular basis, these ingredients should gradually make your skin appear lighter. If you would prefer not to use hydroquinone, look for a bleaching cream that contains one or more of these ingredients.

In addition to melanin-inhibiting ingredients, exfoliating agents can also lighten the complexion by removing pigmented cells from the surface of the skin. The most commonly used exfoliating agents are glycolic acid and lactic acid, both of which are alpha hydroxy acids. For the most dramatic results, look for a skin cream that contains alpha hydroxy acids and different lightening agents. If you have sensitive skin, be careful when using a skin cream that contains both alpha hydroxy acids and melanin inhibiters. To avoid irritation, test the face cream on a small patch of skin before applying it to a larger area.

In many cases, the regular use of a bleaching face cream will reduce the amount of pigmentation in the skin. If after using a bleaching face cream as directed you do not see satisfactory results, you might need to consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist might suggest trying another over-the-counter product or write you a prescription for a stronger bleaching face cream. Prescription bleaching creams contain potent lighteners like tretinoin, hydroquinone or a combination of the two ingredients. These ingredients are typically more effective in diminishing the appearance of drastically uneven skin and lightening the skin tone.

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Discussion Comments
By discographer — On Jan 17, 2014

@donasmrs-- Have you tried papaya cream? Papaya has skin lightening properties. I have not used papaya cream but I have used papaya soap and it works. I'm sure that papaya cream is effective as well. You should give it a try.

Also, I think that it takes a while to see results with all face bleaching creams. You should give a product at least two weeks to know if it's effective, unless of course there is skin irritation. Face bleaching creams shouldn't cause irritation regardless of what they contain.

By donasmrs — On Jan 17, 2014

I'm using a face whitening cream with fruit enzymes. It's supposed to remove dead skin cells and renew cells at a faster rate to whiten skin. I don't think it's working though. It has actually irritated my skin. I need something better.

By turquoise — On Jan 16, 2014

Hydroquinone is not a safe ingredient. I don't think that anyone should use a face cream with it. I actually feel the same way about all melanin inhibiting ingredients.

White skin tone is very popular in Asia. My best friend is Chinese and she told me that many Asian women now suffer from extremely thin skin and a grayish skin tone due to overuse of melanin inhibiting creams. It's not good to use these products regularly and for a long time.

There are natural alternatives for people who want a brighter skin tone. The results won't be immediate or as drastic, but skin will remain healthy and beautiful. Vitamin C is one such ingredient. Creams with tomato extract and vitamin C can be used to make skin tone lighter over time. When a vitamin C cream is combined with a good cleansing and exfoliating routine, skin will look brighter and more beautiful. There are no side effects either.

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