Background

In the first part of this article, we looked at achieving great skincare by studying certain creams that could cause serious and harmful changes.

In the second part of the article, we continue with more analysis of the effects of these agents on the skin; ending with ways to maintain beautiful healthy skin.

The major toxic agent for many of these agents is Hydroquinone which also goes by some of the following synonyms:

• Hydroquinol
• Hydrochronium
• Tequinol
• Quinol
• 1,4-Benzenediol
• p-Diphenol
• and p-Dihydroxylbenzene.

Mercury-containing products include:

• Mercurous chloride
• Calomel
• Cinnabaris
• Quicksilver
• and Hydrogen oxydum rubrum.

Some of the adverse effects of skin lightening creams are seen quite early.

Some of these are allergic (sensitivity) reactions seen almost immediately after the individual starts using them.

They include skin irritation, redness and swelling of the skin, which may be accompanied with a burning sensation of the skin.

Sometimes the skin becomes flaky and itchy leading to excessive scratching that may cause the skin to peel.

However, there are also adverse effects which (though not immediate) can be fatal.

When steroids lighten the skin, they destroy its integrity by thinning it, therefore, making the skin friable and reducing its barrier against foreign bodies.

The skin cells shrink, lose their elasticity, becomes more prone to injury and impaired wound healing.

The skin’s resistance to bacterial and fungal infections is also reduced.

Long term use of skin lightening products containing Hydroquinone also cause exogenous onchronosis which is a form of hyperpigmentation that causes the skin to turn to a dark purple shade and may also cause a characteristic fish odour in the sweat.

Most people who have used skin lightening creams for several years eventually become extremely sensitive to sun exposure and sunburns occur with minimal exposure.

Their skin ages prematurely, they have uneven skin complexion with several areas of discolouration and green prominent veins.

There are natural remedies and practices guaranteed to give you perfect and glowing skin.

Achieving ‘baby-smooth’ skin is possible:

Balanced Diet

• Reduce intake of foods containing refined sugars.
  • Eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
  • This ensures a nutrient-packed diet rich in fatty acids, vitamins (especially A, B, C and E), minerals like zinc and antioxidants.
• Examples of such foods are:
  • green leafy vegetables
  • carrots
  • tomatoes
  • citrus fruits
  • bell peppers
  • dairy product
  • wholegrains
  • mackerel
  • tuna
  • salmon
  • avocadoes
  • sweet potatoes and
  • walnuts.

Adequate Hydration

It is important to drink about 3 to 5 litres of water daily for healthy skin.

You can drink some green tea as well as it is a great source of antioxidants.

Have a proper skincare routine

This includes:

• Checking labels of all skincare products to ensure that they contain only natural and safe ingredients.
• Avoid touching your face with dirty hands.
• Never go to bed with your make up on and always wash your face at night to get rid of dirt on the face and avoid clogged pores.
• Always wear sunscreen before going under the sun.
• Use natural moisturizers like olive oil, coconut oil or Shea butter.
• Exfoliate using recipes made of natural products like sugar and coconut or almond oil and lemon juice.
• Use natural products depending on your skin type – for example some people find 100% pure tea tree oil  improves the appearance of acne and spots.

Maintain good hygiene

Take a bath at least once daily and do not wear dirty clothing.

Change your towels and beddings regularly.

Stay fit by exercising regularly.

As we conclude the article, remember – your skin is dynamic and always changing – responding to changes in the environment to protect the body and it is important to keep it well-nourished.

We are always happy to hear comments so please drop a line below or contact us directly if you need any more advice specific to your needs.

Stay Well and see you again in our next post!

More Reading:

• Your Skin – Why You Should Never Take It For Granted – Part I
• The Benefits Of CBD For Your Health & Well-Being
• Home Remedies for Yeast Infections That Really Work
• How to Turn Up Your Glow: Top 10 Vitamins for Beauty
• 8 Supplements for Energy and Focus To Boost Your Brain Power

Editing by AskAwayHealth Team

Disclaimer

All AskAwayHealth articles are written by practising  Medical Practitioners on a wide range of health care conditions to provide evidence-based guidance and to help promote quality health care. 

The advice in our material is not meant to replace the management of your specific condition by a qualified health care practitioner.
To discuss your condition, please contact a health practitioner or reach us directly