Published by Dr. Lasi's Skin & Hair Clinic
Fairness and 'whitening' creams are widely sold online, in beauty shops and through social media. Some promise visible results in days. Dermatologists across India regularly see skin damage caused by such creams, particularly those that contain steroids or mercury. Here is what you should know before you use one.
Why do some creams work so fast?
Products that lighten the skin dramatically within days often contain ingredients that should only be used under medical supervision, or that should not be used at all. Two common culprits are potent topical steroids and mercury compounds. They may also contain hydroquinone at strengths meant only for prescription use.
Steroid damage to the face
Topical steroids are useful medicines for conditions such as eczema when used correctly. But using strong steroid creams on the face for weeks or months, often in 'mixed' or 'triple combination' creams bought without prescription, can cause:
- Thinning of the skin, with visible blood vessels
- Redness, burning and sensitivity to sun and heat
- Acne-like eruptions and rosacea-like rash
- Increased facial hair
- Worsening of fungal infections
- Rebound redness and burning when the cream is stopped, which makes people keep using it
Mercury in creams
Mercury is sometimes added to unlabelled lightening creams. The World Health Organization warns that mercury in skin products can damage the kidneys and nervous system and cause skin rashes and discolouration. It can also affect other family members, including children, through contact.
Warning signs on a product
- No full ingredient list, or ingredients in a language you cannot read
- No manufacturer details or batch number
- Promises of permanent whitening or results in a few days
- Sold loose, in plain containers or made 'at home'
- Ingredients such as clobetasol, betamethasone, mometasone, mercury, calomel or mercurous chloride
Already using such a cream?
Do not stop a steroid cream suddenly without advice if you have used it for a long time, as a strong flare can follow. See a dermatologist, take the product with you, and the doctor will plan how to stop it and calm the skin. Recovery takes time and patience.
Safer ways to treat dark skin patches
Natural skin colour is healthy and does not need correction. When there is a real problem, such as melasma, tanning, acne marks or uneven tone, a dermatologist can identify the cause and offer safe treatment:
- Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, the most important step
- Prescription creams with known ingredients and a planned duration
- Chemical peels chosen for your skin type
- Laser toning for selected cases
- Treatment of underlying causes, such as insulin resistance in a dark neck
Read more about pigmentation treatment and how melasma differs from other pigmentation.
Concerned about a cream you have been using? Book an appointment or call +91 81398 82226.
This article is for general information. For advice about your own skin or hair, please book a consultation.