How to Lighten Skin

Sun is not the only factor that adds to darkening skin color. Women of color and those entering menopause often find their skin tone becomes uneven. Acne scarring, freckles, birth control pills and hyperpigmentation are other skin-darkening culprits. If you are looking for a safe way to lighten your skin and even your skin tone, look no further.

Things You'll Need

• Minimum 15 SPF sunscreen
• Creams and lotions containing hydroquinone
• Vitamin C serum
• Whole cream

Instructions

1. Use sunscreen daily with a minimum of 15 SPF. Clouds only block about 20 percent of the sun's harmful UV rays, so make sure you use your sunscreen even on overcast days, and reapply once at midday.

2. Choose skin creams and lotions which contain hydroquinone, a chemical which helps to lighten skin by inhibiting melanin. Use your skin cream or lotion daily; however, you must use sunscreen as well, as hydroquinone makes your skin more sensitive to the sun.

3. Purchase a serum of Vitamin C, readily available where beauty supplies are sold. Apply the serum evenly to your skin every night before bed to gradually and gently lighten your skin and even your skin tone.

4. Treat yourself to the occasional milk bath. Milk not only helps to nourish and moisturize your skin, but is also a natural and gentle bleach. To prepare your bath, simply add 2 cups of whole cream to your hot water, soak and enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• Lightening your skin and evening your tone takes time and patience, so don't expect immediate results. Try taking a Polaroid of your skin every few weeks to judge the effects of your treatment.

• If you find you have an allergy to hydroquinone, you may also try products that contain mulberry extract, kojic acid, licorice extract and burberry extract.