They are numerous bleaching ingredients used in manufacturing skincare products. Some are natural base while others are chemical base and these ones are so dangerous to the human body.
These chemicals are truly helpful in getting rid of so many skin problems but the repercussion of long-term use, abuse or misuse is something that would leave you in regrets if not remedied.
Below are 3 dangerous bleaching ingredients.
1: Mercury
2: Hydroquinone
3: Corticosteroid
1: Mercury is a strong chemical element with the symbol Hg and atomic number 80. It is a heavy, silvery metal that is liquid at room temperature, and is also known as quicksilver.
Mercury is highly toxic and can cause serious health problems when it enters the body. It can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and lungs, and is especially harmful to developing fetuses.
Exposure to high levels of mercury can also cause mercury poisoning, which can result in tremors, memory loss, and other symptoms. It is a toxic heavy metal that is harmful to the human health, whenever it is absorbed through the skin.
Mercury is used in some skincare products as a preservative or a bleaching ingredients, but its use in cosmetics is heavily regulated or banned in some countries due to its many health risks.
Exposure to mercury through skin contact can lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even mercury poisoning, which can cause serious neurological, reproductive, and developmental problems. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of mercury exposure than others.
In the United States, the use of mercury in cosmetics has been banned since 1973, but some imported products may still contain mercury. Therefore, it is essential to read product labels carefully and avoid any skincare products that list mercury as an ingredient.
Mercury is not usually listed as a name of an ingredient. It may be listed under a number of different names, so check the ingredients list for words like; mercurous chloride, mercuric lodide, calomel, mercuric, mercurous or mercurio.
2: Hydroquinone is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C6H6O2. It is a white crystalline substance that is soluble in water and has a slightly sweet odor when perceived.
Hydroquinone is commonly used as a skin bleaching ingredients because it inhibits the production of melanin on the skin. It is used to treat skin conditions like hyperpigmentation.
However, hydroquinone has been linked to a number of health concerns, including skin irritation, contact dermatitis, and an increased risk of skin cancer. It has also been shown to have toxic side effects on the liver and kidneys.
Due to all these, many countries have restricted or banned the use of HQ in skincare products. In United States, hydroquinone is available only by prescription and is limited to 2% concentration for over-the-counter skin treatment products.
3: Corticosteroids are synthetic versions of hormones produced by the body’s adrenal glands. These topical creams are used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis, dark spots, pimples, eczema, acne and rashes.
Steroid creams work by reducing inflammation, itching, and redness in the affected area of the skin. They are available in different strengths, ranging from mild to potent, and should be used only as directed by a healthcare professional.
It is important to follow the instructions on the label carefully when you’re using steroid creams. Overuse or misuse of these creams can lead to side effects such as discoloration, thinning of the skin and increased risk of many infections.
If you have any concerns or questions about the personal use of these bleaching ingredients, you can talk to a dermatologist or your healthcare provider or a pharmacist to provide you with information on how you can use them safely.
You should also check out:
8 ways to detect hydroquinone
20 side effects of hydroquinone
20 other names of hydroquinone
12 disadvantages of bleaching creams
How to know a bleaching cream and soap