How to Get Skin Lightened

Skin pigmentation is primarily affected by sun exposure. Even small amounts of sun exposure can result in a significantly darker complexion over time. The sun causes age spots and freckles which alter one's skin tone. Sunless tanning and bronzing products also result in darker skin. If you wish to reverse the effects of such products and the sun, you can achieve lighter skin. You have various options to get your skin lighter but you must be dedicated in your regime to achieve desired results.

Things You'll Need

• Sunscreen
• Protective clothing
• Hydroxy acids
• Bleaching cream
• Chemical peels
• Laser therapy
• Lemon juice

Instructions

1. Apply sunscreen. If you don't protect your skin against the sun's damaging rays, it will continue to darken. Any attempts at lightening your skin will then be thwarted. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating daily, regardless of weather conditions.

2. Wear protective clothing. If you'll be in the sun for prolonged periods of time, cover exposed skin with UV-protective clothing. Wear a broad-rimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face. The sun's rays can reflect off concrete, water and sand so you aren't necessarily safe if you remain in the shade.

3. Use hydroxy acid products on your skin. These naturally-occurring acids aid in skin cell turnover. With regular use, new skin cells will be made more quickly to replace your older, darkened skin cells. Whether your skin is darker from sun exposure or sunless tanning products, hydroxy acids will help it to lighten more quickly. You can find hydroxy acids in a wide range of products such as cleansers, lotions, serums and toners.

4. Spread bleaching cream on your skin. Available over-the-counter in most drug stores, bleaching creams work to gradually lighten your skin over time. You must apply the cream regularly for several weeks before seeing results. You can also talk to your dermatologist about prescription-strength varieties.

5. Get chemical peels. The top layers of your skin will be burned away due to the chemicals applied. Once your skin heals, it will look less damaged, younger and lighter. Oftentimes, a series of peels is needed to achieve desired results.

6. Try laser therapy. The laser's light will focus on areas of darker pigmentation, effectively breaking them up. The top layers of your skin will also be burned away and collagen production will be increased. After treatment, the effects of sun exposure and sunless tanning products will be less apparent.

7. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto your skin. The acidity of this natural bleaching agent gradually lightens skin. Apply the juice daily to slowly lighten your skin.

Tips & Warnings

• Your skin will be sensitive and irritated after chemical peels and laser therapy.