Skin lightening attempts have been in common in some societies for hundreds, possibly thousands of years. It is controversial due to the idea of ranking people in society according to the color of their complexions. Here are the pros and cons of the practice.

In years gone by, a person with a tanned complexion was usually someone of lower social status, because they worked outdoors in the fields. Not too many years ago, women realized that being out in the sun caused wrinkles. They valued their creamy white complexions and carried parasols or wore bonnets to protect them.

The Geisha are known for the white rice powder makeup they used. Originally, the creams they used would actually reduce the amount of melanin in their skin, making it look even whiter.

Today, most people get to choose where they work. While many people work in office buildings, some take to the streets for their occupations. Those people who are office-bound often enjoy outdoor recreational activities, which are good for their health in many ways.

It isn’t actually being out in the sun that causes wrinkles, it is free radical damage caused by exposure to UV rays. Some of today’s better skin lightening compounds may also work to repair free radical damage.

Although we have many sun screening compounds, research indicates that wearing a bonnet or carrying a parasol would actually be a good idea. Clothing of all kinds protects against UV damage. Sunscreens are only guaranteed to protect against sunburn.

The creams originally used by the Geisha contained lead. Someone finally realized that their health problems had to do with the lead in the creams. So, the composition was changed. The use of certain kinds of bird droppings was not uncommon, still an unpleasant choice, but not as dangerous.

Most modern skin lightening creams contained an ingredient called hydroquinone. Its use was banned by the European Union in 2002 due to a perceived cancer risk. Other risks include permanent hyperpigmentation. Sometimes it works opposite to the way it was meant to.

In recent years, people have wanted to lighten and even out their complexions, because dark spots make them look older. The spots might not be dangerous, but they are blemishes associated with UV damage and cellular aging.

It may still be controversial in some areas, because of perceptions about social status. But, skin lightening is mostly used today as an anti-aging treatment. Luckily, safe and effective compounds have been developed in recent years.

Wakame kelp extracts, nano-particles of coenzyme Q10, Functional Keratin and cyperus rotundus extracts are among the effective ingredients. The one that provides the greatest reduction in pigmentation is cyperus rotundus extract. The plant has many common names, because it is present in practically every country of the world. It inhibits melanin (the pigment responsible for the skin’s tone) production greatly.

In the right concentration, it can provide a significant skin lightening in a matter of weeks. Before-and-after photos can easily prove that claim. You can see that the look is more youthful, too.

Author Bio: Valerie Rosenbaum has spent years searching for the best natural skin care products. The products she discovered use a proprietary blend of natural ingredients like Extrapone Nutgrass root to even out skin pigmentation. To learn more visit her skin firming site.

Category: Womens Interest
Keywords: skin lightening