Side-Effects of Skin Bleaching

1. Mercury Poisoning

While the United States has banned mercury in skin-lightening products, products manufactured in other countries might still contain it. Exposure to mercury can lead to high blood pressure, numbness, and memory loss.

2. Dermatitis

Reports associate skin bleaching with contact dermatitis, an inflammation caused by certain substances. Symptoms include hives, blisters, and skin ulcers.

3. Steroid Acne

 Bleaching creams with corticosteroids can induce steroid acne, primarily affecting the chest but potentially appearing on the back, arms, and other body parts.

4. Skin Dryness

Bleaching may result in dry skin, potentially causing cracks that make the skin more susceptible to bacteria. Dry skin also heightens the risk of developing rashes.

5. Irritated and Sensitive Skin

 Irritated and sensitive skin can lead to redness, acne breakouts, rashes, and eczema.

6. Blue-Black Pigmentation

 Exogenous ochronosis, a skin disorder causing blue-black pigmentation, can develop as a significant complication of excessive use of skin-bleaching creams containing hydroquinone.