Skin Whitening Methods

There are three main methods of whitening the skin. Home remedies use natural products that result in mild whitening. Commercial products contain stronger chemicals for a greater effect. The best methods, however, are available at the office of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. The purpose of skin whitening is to lighten or remove scars or discolorations. An uneven skin tone comes from skin conditions such as acne or from birthmarks that look like port wine stains. Pregnancy and some medications can also cause an uneven skin tone. Whatever the reason for wanting to whiten the skin, these methods can help.

Home Remedies

Lemon juice is a popular folk remedy for age spots, freckles and other skin discolorations. Lemons have a bleaching action that can fade scars and make skin appear less discolored. While lemons produce only a mild effect, they are inexpensive, safe and natural. Use a fresh lemon or buy a bottle of lemon juice. Apply the lemon juice to the areas you want to lighten. Apply the juice a few times throughout the day to get faster results.

Hydrogen peroxide is also used to bleach the skin. This peroxide is used in many whitening products for hair and teeth. It is inexpensive and found in any drugstore. Apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to a cotton ball and then use on the areas you want to whiten a few times a day.

Commercial Bleaches

Skin bleaches in the form of creams and lotions are available in drugstores. Many of these products contain 2 percent hydroquinone, a popular bleaching agent. The Mayo Clinic recommends looking for skin whitening products that have hydroquinone, glycolic acid or kojic acid.

Seeing a Doctor

Plastic surgeons and dermatologists have a few medical procedures that lighten the skin. Chemical peels use acids to burn the top layer of the skin. The top skin layer heals as new skin grows underneath. When the new skin makes it to the surface, the skin has a more even tone. A doctor can also do a dermabrasion, a method in which a rotating brush is used to sand off or exfoliate the top layer of skin. After the skin heals, new skin appears that is smoother in texture and has less noticeable skin discolorations.

References

• Scarring
• Age Spots - Treatment
• Current Trends in Skin Whitening Ingredients.