When it comes to skin lightening treatment in Mumbai, it is important to read the labels carefully. Some companies do not list their ingredients transparently. Some contain mercury, which is a carcinogenic and is banned in many countries. This chemical bonds to precious metals, including gold, and can harm both humans and fish.
Table of Contents
Carotenoids
Carotenoids have been gaining a lot of attention due to their various benefits to human health. They are used commercially for pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic purposes. In 2007, the global market for carotenoids was valued at $766 million.
While carotenoids can be effective in skin lightening treatments, they are also highly sensitive to oxidation and UV light. For this reason, starch encapsulated carotenoids have better storage and formulation stability. These encapsulated forms of carotenoids are easily incorporated into water-based formulations. One such carotene-encapsulated solution is Ronacare(r) AP, which improves the carotenoids’ UV stability when applied to the skin.
Glutathione
Although glutathione skin lightening is a popular treatment, it is not widely available in the United States. Most people would have to travel abroad to get the treatment, but in recent years more doctors have begun offering it in their offices. In the United States, glutathione skin lightening treatments have become available at several medical spas, including Taylor Medical Group in California.
The glutathione skin lightening treatment works by neutralizing free radicals that create tyrosinase. This causes the skin to appear lighter. Moreover, it speeds up the body’s healing process by replacing damaged cells with new ones. These new cells brighten the skin and give it a radiant glow. However, there are risks associated with this treatment.
Get to know: Skin lightening treatment cost in Mumbai
Melatonin
Melatonin is an effective natural skin lightening treatment that can be applied topically. It works by stimulating a protein called NRF2 that activates additional cellular protection mechanisms. This result in enhanced melanocytes’ ability to repair DNA damage and less UV-induced DNA mutations. In addition, melatonin is known to have anti-cancerous effects, which make it an excellent topical photoprotectant.
Melatonin is found in night skin repair creams and serums. It has high lipophilicity, which enables it to easily penetrate the skin. It also has a powerful upregulating effect on other skin enzymes, which triggers nighttime skin repair. The human body produces melatonin in small amounts throughout the night. It peaks in production between 12 and 3am, and diminishes as light exposure increases.
Tranexamic acid
Tranexamic acid is a synthetic amino acid derivative that is effective for skin lightening. It can lighten discoloration and brighten the skin. However, it is important to note that tranexamic acid isn’t a cure for skin cancer. Its main purpose is to help prevent or eliminate skin discoloration. It also helps keep the skin’s pores clean and healthy.
The ingredient is typically well tolerated and can be easily incorporated into a regular skin care routine. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the label to avoid side effects. You should start by applying it twice a day, preferably before applying your moisturizer and sunscreen. If your skin is sensitive, start with less frequently and increase the frequency after a few weeks.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is a commonly used ingredient for skin lightening in Mumbai. It works by inhibiting the production of melanin in the skin. Although it does not provide a perfect skin tone and is not an ideal treatment for dermal hypermelanosis, it can lighten the skin and make it easier to conceal with facial cosmetics.
The side effects of hydroquinone are minimal and will gradually fade as your skin gets used to the product. However, some people may experience redness or dryness after using it for a long time. Also, you should not use hydroquinone if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also not recommended for use on the face or eyes. You should stop using hydroquinone five months after the application. Excessive use of hydroquinone may cause blue-black pigmentation and papules.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are topical steroid medications used for a variety of medical conditions. While they can have numerous benefits, corticosteroids can also have negative side effects. These adverse effects can include perioral dermatitis, telangiectasia, and acne. The use of topical steroids on the face should be done with caution and the risks should be explained to the patient.
Corticosteroid creams are sold in over-the-counter forms and are widely available. However, they have serious side effects and should only be used under a doctor’s supervision. In India, women and doctors often use them inappropriately and without the knowledge of a medical professional. One neighbor told Banik’s mother that if she used the cream, she would become “fair.”
Mercury
Mercury is a toxic substance and is present in many skin lightening products. It has a variety of effects on humans, ranging from dermatological complaints to neurological and renal impairment. The latency period for symptoms of mercury toxicity varies from several months to several years. It is important to identify exposure and to get the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
The study confirmed the presence of mercury in skin lightening products and found that it is present in more than a third of the products used by study participants. In fact, more than half of the subjects used skin lightening products at least once a day. They reported that they experienced skin itchiness and dermal irritability, as well as ‘other’ health effects, including headaches and scarring. Some respondents also reported depression.
