3rd Nov 2016
The NHS Guide to Skin Lightening.
Informative Guide From NHS.uk
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 melasma (dark patches).
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:
- chemical peels
- skin-lightening creams
- laser treatment
How to use your skin-lightening cream. Your doctor will advise you how to use your skin-lightening cream.
You’ll normally be advised to:
- use it sparingly once or twice a day on the darkened area of skin only
- avoid getting the cream on the surrounding skin or in your eyes, mouth and nose
- apply the cream with a cotton bud, or wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the cream
- avoid touching the treated area against another person's skin for at least a few hours after applying the cream
- use sun cream to protect your skin from the aggravating effects of sunlight
Most people will need to continue the treatment for around three or four months. Your doctor may recommend stopping treatment after this time, or only using it very occasionally.
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