How to Lighten Skin

Skin lightening is a way to conceal the effects of a variety of skin conditions, such as age spots or vitiligo. While it is not a good idea to lighten healthy skin for reasons of vanity or insecurity, those who wish to combat the darkening effects of a medical affliction will be interested in learning how to lighten skin.

• The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.

• Skin lightening should only be attempted by those with legitimate medical issues, not those who are uncomfortable with the shade they were born with. Your color is part of your identity, and you should learn to embrace it despite what you believe society may think. Lightening your skin will not change who you are, and you will probably not like yourself better with a fairer complexion. If you are suffering from hyperpigmentation, age spots, or another medical condition however, you may be interested in lightening your skin to help counteract the effects. There are several methods available for this, but you should always consult a dermatologist before starting a skin-lightening regimen.

(Creative Commons photo by Sara Marx)

• Stay out of sunlight as much as possible to avoid any further darkening of the skin. If you must be in the sun, use a sun block with a high SPF. It may seem obvious, but normal everyday activities like walking to your car or checking the mail can expose you to ultraviolet rays, and most people don't think to protect themselves in these situations.

• Many skin-lightening treatments may be applied at home, though the stronger ones will require a prescription. Look for the following ingredients:

1. Retinol
2. Glycolic acid
3. Alpha Hydroxy acid
4. Vitamin A acid
5. Hydroquinone

• If you are not happy with the results of topical treatments, a dermatologist can offer you some more extreme solutions such as:

1. Liquid nitrogen cryotherapy (for peeling off brown lesions)
2. Skin bleaching using a monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone (most famously used on Michael Jackson)

• If you are troubled by a skin condition that has darkened your complexion, you have several options for lightening up. You may choose a simple, over-the-counter treatment, or you may opt for a more involved procedure. Whatever you choose, it is vital that you consult with a doctor before attempting to lighten. If you do not, you run the risk of damaging your complexion and possibly scarring yourself for life.

• 
  

• Introduction
• Step 1: Protect Yourself
• Step 2: Topical Treatments
• Step 3: Special Procedures
• Conclusion