ALL SKINS ARE BEAUTIFUL

Skin bleaching/lightening or toning is the application of lightening agents all over the body with the aim of changing one’s complexion. The rate of skin bleaching is rising exponentially especially amongst the Africans, African-Americans, Afro-Caribbean’s and Asians.

Worldwide, fair skin is generally perceived as beautiful, even more, seen as the Ideal skin color and is much desired. This ideology has eaten deeply into our society encompassing both Gender and unfortunately, all age groups. In addition, it has succeeded in creating an alarming rate of inferiority complex amongst dark skin women.

These skin bleaching products are sold in cosmetic stores globally, a few tastefully packaged while a large number, poorly packaged, regardless, made affordable for all social class. Furthermore, most times they are purchased intentionally, whereas others are undiscerning consumers. Sadly, some of these products do not have the active ingredients printed on their labels and most are sold under the guise of Natural/Organic products.

The skin bleaching agents commonly used in skin care products are Hydroquinone (in high concentrations), Steroids, and Mercury. The risks involved in the use of these products are enormous, nevertheless we will mention a few.

Generally, long-term use of skin bleaching products can contribute to premature aging of the skin and may increase the risk of skin cancer from sun exposure.

Steroids cause skin thinner skin, stretch marks, easy bruising, Enlarged blood vessels, localized increased hair thickness and length, and Steroid Acne. It may also increase your risk of infections, and delay wound healing.

Prolonged use of Hydroquinone (irrespective of the concentration) may cause an unwanted and difficult to treat skin discoloration (EXOGENOUS OCHRONOSIS).

Mercury is a toxic agent that can cause serious psychiatric, neurological, and kidney problems. Pregnant women who use a skin lightener with mercury can pass the mercury to their unborn child.

In a nutshell, God has made us all beautiful with various skin types and colors and no shade of skin is more beautiful. Moreover, the skin is the largest organ in our body and serves as a physical barrier to protect us from harmful substances amongst other functions…….Therefore, we should protect and be comfortable in our skin. Always use the right products to meet the needs of our skin, exfoliate and moisturize often to achieve the supple, healthy, radiant and youthful skin we deserve.

# WE SAY NO TO BLEACHING # TEAM HEALTHY AND CLEAR SKIN #ALL SKINS ARE BEAUTIFUL#