There are many myths about skin whitening that are still circulating and believed by many people today. In fact, these myths are not necessarily true and can actually make people mistaken in using skin whitening products.
White and clean skin is the dream of almost everyone. Not only makes the appearance more attractive, white skin can also increase self-confidence. Various types of skin whitening products are now widely circulated in the market and you can get them easily.
However, before using skin whitening products, it's a good idea to know the myths and facts about skin whitening first. This is because the myths circulating are often wrong and cause skin whiteners to not be used properly.
Various Myths About Skin Whitening and the Facts Behind It
Here are some myths about skin whitening and the facts behind them:
1. Skin whitening is safe to use when you are doing outdoor activities
This statement is not necessarily true, because some skin whitening products usually contain active substances, such as AHAs and kojic acid, which can cause side effects in the form of skin irritation and skin becomes sensitive when exposed to sunlight.
Therefore, you still need to use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 content when using skin whitening and activities during the day.
Sunscreen can protect the skin from exposure to UV radiation which can cause premature aging and skin cancer. If possible, also use other protection, such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and an umbrella, when you are outdoors.
2. Expensive skin whitening products are definitely better
This is a myth. More expensive skin whitening products are not necessarily better than cheaper products. This is because basically, the content of each skin whitening product is almost the same.
Skin whitening sold in regular stores can be more effective than skin whitening creams sold in well-known stores. This depends on whether or not the user's skin type matches the product.
3. The more types of skin whitening ingredients used, the better
This is not always true. Some substances in skin whitening products may not work effectively or even pose a risk of causing skin irritation when used together.
An example is combining facial care products that contain retinoids and AHAs. Both of these substances have similar benefits, namely making the skin look brighter. However, using them together can make the skin dry and irritated easily.
If you still want to include products with these ingredients into your facial care routine, you should use them alternately every day and stop if you have skin problems, such as irritation or redness.
4. Skin becomes whiter quickly is a good thing
This myth is not true, because you actually need to be careful with products that claim to whiten skin very quickly.
Skin bleaches that give quick results may contain substances that are too high or contain harmful substances, such as mercury.
Usually, some ingredients that can lighten the skin, such as kojic acid and licorice root start showing results after 2-4 weeks of use.
5. Hydroquinone is safe to use
Hydroquinone is a skin whitening agent that works by inhibiting the production of melanin. But in fact, this ingredient can cause dangerous side effects, ranging from hyperpigmentation, skin irritation, skin cancer, to kidney damage.
This side effect is the reason why hydroquinone is not allowed to be added in over-the-counter skin whitening products and should only be used as prescribed and directed by a doctor.
6. The more you use it, the whiter the skin will be
This statement is not necessarily true. Therefore, make sure you first read the ingredients and instructions for use listed on the packaging. If necessary, consult a doctor regarding the composition, method of use, risks, and rules for discontinuing the use of the product.
7. White skin is synonymous with beautiful women
Not a few people still feel that their appearance will be more attractive if they have white skin. In fact, this assumption is reinforced by advertisements for some skin whitening products.
In fact, a person's beauty is not only seen from the color of his skin. Cultivate confidence in what you have. That way, beauty will be exposed by itself.
The facts about the skin whitening myth above can help you avoid being misinformed and not immediately believe in information that is not clear. To be on the safe side, consult a doctor to determine the type of skin whitening that is suitable for your skin condition.