Whitening creams, also called skin bleachers, lighteners, brighteners or fade creams, contain different ingredients. The only ingredient approved by the Food and Drug Administration to be labeled a bleacher is hydroquinone, according to DermaDoctor, a dermatologist-run skin care website. Other whitening agents include alpha hydroxy acids, retinoids, azaleic acid, licorice extract, dithiaoctanediol and paper mulberry. Whitening creams fade darker skin resulting from the various manifestations of hyperpigmentation, notes the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Before treating discoloration, see a dermatologist, as changes to the appearance of skin can be warning signs of skin cancer.
Age Spots
Skin whitening creams are a standard treatment for age spots. This form of hyperpigmentation, otherwise known as sun spots, liver spots or solar lentigines, is common with aging. Dark spots of pigmentation form gradually in response to years of ultraviolet radiation exposure, primarily from the sun, explains Skin Care Physicians. Sun protection is important when treating age spots. Other treatments include cosmetic procedures such as dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, cryotherapy or laser therapy.
Melasma and Chloasma
Melasma and chloasma are often treated with skin whitening creams. Melasma is common in women, who account for 90 percent of those with the disorder, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The causes of melasma are unknown, but it can be triggered by hormone imbalances or therapies, cosmetic applications or medications. Melasma causes brown or gray-brown areas of facial discoloration. It also can affect the neck and arms. Chloasma is the same condition during pregnancy. Unlike many forms of hyperpigmentation, melasma can go away naturally. However, along with fade creams, treatments include sun protection and the same treatment methods as sun spots.
Acanthosis Nigricans
Obesity and related insulin resistance can cause a condition called acanthosis nigricans. This disorder takes the form of dark, velvety areas in the skin's folds and creases, especially on the neck, groin and armpits. Successful, long-term treatment for acanthosis nigricans requires returning to and maintaining a healthy weight and managing insulin resistance. However, the Mayo Clinic says that skin whitening creams can work as a remedy for the discoloration itself. Reduced consumption of sugars and starches, fish oil supplements, oral medications, and cosmetic procedures are other methods of treatment.
Other Uses
Hyperpigmentation is a catch-all term for any disorder causing spots of excess melanin, or pigment. Discolorations can be various shades of brown, black, gray, red or purple. As DermaDoctor points out, skin whitening agents can help no matter the cause. Other common conditions remedied with skin whitening creams include freckles and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The latter refers to discoloration from injury to the skin, be it from a laceration, acne, bug bites or other sources.
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