The lightening of the skin is a controversial branch of the cosmetics industry. Some of the components of skin whitening products have been shown to be potentially harmful to health. On the other hand, safe natural products can help us achieve a more even, brighter complexion.

The following is a list of risky components often used products designed to whiten the skin. You will see that the health risks associated with most of these ingredients are substantial.

Hydroquinone is one of the main ingredients used in skin whitening products. It inhibits melanin production and has strong antioxidant effects. Unfortunately the full extent of its effects are largely unknown. In some countries, like France, and recently the whole EU it is banned due to risks of skin cancer.

Arbutin, also frequently used, has been linked to cancer similarly as hydroquinone. The long term effects are unknown.

Mercury is often present in cosmetics designed to lighten skin tone. Most of us have heard of the dangers of mercury poisoning, yet it can be found in skin whitening products. Even a small amount of mercury can have damaging effects on the neurological system and can also cause kidney failure.

Tretinoin is the acid form of Vitamin A. It may lead to the thinning, itching, drying and increased sensitivity of the skin. Waxing the area treated with tretinoin iis very dangerous as the thinning skin may easily be removed with the wax. Pregnant women are strongly advised against the use of any product containing this ingredient, as it has been linked to causing birth defects.

Kojic acid, a Japanese product that comes from the manufacturing of sake (rice wine) has been shown in animal tests to be carcinogen. Its full effects on humans are yet unknown.

Alpha hydroxy acids are very commonly found in chemical peels for the face. These are very potent and any product containing more that a 10% concentration should only be used by trained and experienced professionals, and should not be applied at home.

Arsenic is know by most people to be poison, and still many skin whitening product contain this ingredient. This certainly goes against the philosophy that skincare should be safe enough to eat, since anything we apply on our skin is absorbed into our body.

Some illegal skin whitening products contain dangerous steroids. Clobetasol is a product used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis but are only to be used for a maximum of two weeks. This steroid has been found unauthorized skin lightening creams whose prolonged use has been linked to weight gain, acne and infertility.

Instead of these harsh, health damaging products, my recommendation is to stick to natural products from companies that are not afraid to reveal all their ingredients.. Beauty is important, but health more so, and I believe that in the long run, one will not be achieved at the expense of the other.

Source by Estelle Morray