The Dangerous Effect of Skin Bleaching: What You Need To Know

People who are exposed to the sun regularly produce natural oils on their skin. These oils are known as melanin, and they give people fair complexions and darken the skin. People with fairer complexions have less melanin production in their skin, and that is why they appear paler.

However, this natural ability to produce or not produce melanin can be altered by various external factors. This is known as ‘melanism’. It means that when a person or animal is exposed repeatedly to certain external factors, it starts producing more of these so-called ‘external agents’ than it should normally.

The external agents are referred as ‘acclimatisers’, which explains how they make the host organism more sensitive to them over time (while simultaneously making them less able to resist them).

I have prepared this article in order to tells you everything you need to know about the dangerous effect of the practice of ‘skin bleaching’ – what causes it, its symptoms, its prevalence and how you can avoid getting trapped into it!

What is skin bleaching?

There are a number of cosmetic products and processes that are used for the purpose of ‘skin bleaching’. This refers to the practice of ‘changing the colour of the skin’. For instance, creams and gels are used to lighten the skin colour.

These are meant to be applied regularly; they contain substances that are known to interfere with the skin’s pigment production. Some people in some places have also used natural practices, such as drinking onion juice or using turmeric roots, to lighten their skin colour. While these methods may have had some initial success, they are unsafe and can lead to severe skin damage.

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Why do people skin bleach?

The desire to appear paler than you are is not just a passing fancy. There are several unhealthy reasons for wanting to get lighter skin which includes

  • Getting away with doing things that you would not be able to do because of your dark skin colour, or because you would attract too much negative attention because of it.
  • Seeking acceptance from your family members.

  • Trying to fit in with your social circle more comfortably.

  • Avoiding being bullied or harassed by people, who think that they have the right to just because they have the power to do so.

The harmful effects of skin whitening

There are many harmful effects associated with skin whitening many people are ignorant of or rather they don't pay attention to which are.

  • Irregular bleeding due to a disturbance in the immunity caused by the weakening of the germs that protect the skin from disorders, allergies and other infections.

  • Skin damage, due to the use of unsafe, unregulated products.

  • Permanent discolouration of the skin Increased risk of melanoma, vitiligo and other types of skin cancers

  • Allergic reactions to the ingredients used in the products, such as ‘Kojic acid’, which is a component of many whitening products.

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  • Confusion about how to accept yourself.

Prevalence of skin bleaching in India

People who bleach their skin are known as ‘bleachers’. This is a fairly new term, and was popularised only a few decades ago. The prevalence of skin bleaching in India is very high, and this is true for all age groups. Among all women below the age of 35, more than 70% have tried to lighten their skin.

Prevalence of skin bleaching among young men is much less than that of women; however, a significant number of young men in this age group do participate in this dangerous practice.

Recent trends and remedies for skin bleaching

People who bleach their skin are always on the lookout for new trends that may help them achieve their desired skin colour. However, it is important to remember that there is no such thing as a ‘quick fix’ for skin bleaching. There is no magic elixir that can ‘make your skin lighter’, as you will only end up with a lot of damaged skin.

You can only achieve a natural looking skin colour by following a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced, nutritious diet, getting enough sleep, working out regularly and avoiding exposure to the harmful effects of the sun.

Conclusion

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People who bleach their skin are always on the lookout for new trends that may help them achieve their desired skin colour. There is no magic elixir that can ‘make your skin lighter’, as you will only end up with a lot of damaged skin.

You can only achieve a natural looking skin colour by following a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced, nutritious diet, getting enough sleep, working out regularly and avoiding exposure to the harmful effects of the sun.

It is important to remember that ‘skin whitening’ is dangerous and damaging. It does not make your skin look any better, and it can even make you susceptible to skin-cancer in the future.

• Links Consulted

(1). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/skin-bleaching

(2). https://www.webmd.com/beauty/skin-lightening-products

(3). https://www.byrdie.com/skin-bleaching

(4). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cosmetic-procedures/skin-lightening/



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2 comments
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Honestly, a lot of people are not aware of the risk of applying bleaching cream. Such a nice topic.

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