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Is Skin Lightening Without Bleaching Cream Possible?

asked 3 years ago by Gingerale in Nigeria
Latest answer by Chang Son, MD
Question viewed 5,923 times
Tags: African American, hyperpigmentation

I'm black and i have a chocolate complexion. Currently areas of my skin have been discoloured due to exposure to the sun. People have advised me to use bleach creams to solve the problem, but i have discovered that i'd have to use these creams constantly to prevent the darkening from reappearing and if i don't the darkening would even get worse. i'd like a natural and safe remedy. thank you.

4 answers to Is Skin Lightening Without Bleaching Cream Possible?

+2

Skin lightening without using a bleaching cream

The long standing option for lightening skin has been the skin bleaching cream hydroquinone. Recently however, a new option has become available, Elure. Elure is a skin lightening cream that is an enzyme and not a bleach. It works by breaking down the pigment that lready exists in your skin. It also does not carry the same risk of irritation or inflammation that some can experiene with hydroquinone. Nor are you at risk for the issue of grey like pigment in your skin (called ochronosis)... more
Lori A. Brightman, MD

New York Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

There are options

More and more, there are products and procedures that are available to achieve skin brightening, independent of bleaching substances. In general, they are 1) laser assisted therapy 2) "natural" brightening substances 3) and peeling procedures. In our practice, best outcome in achieve when two or more of such therapies are used in combination. Having said that, this is a tough condition to improve, specially in those patients with darker skin type.
Chang Son, MD

Fort Lee Dermatologist
+1

Skin lightening without hydroquinone

There is a whole new category of skin lightening product which represent an alternative to hydroquinone --skin brighteners. Skin brighteners don't bleach normal skin and don't have the safety risks associated with chronic use of hydroquinone, such as ochronosis. They may contain a variety of ingredients such as azeleic acid, vitamin C, kojic acid, arbutin, soy, or the mushroom. extract. Excellent options include Vi Derm HQ Free, Vivte Vibrance and Elure.
Dina D. Strachan, MD

New York Dermatologist
+1

May not be possible.

You may want to try certain types of peels like the Vipeel, and microdermabrasion.  I wouldn't even think about a laser. Other peels may help as well.
Scott E. Kasden, MD

Dallas Plastic Surgeon

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