Skin Whitening without the Danger of Toxic Metals and Hydroquinone
Chinese authorities found toxic metals in leading creams and have banned their use. Skin whitening is very popular in China but is misunderstood by many who believe that the skin actually changes color.
Beverly Hills, CA (PRWEB) October 27, 2006
Lighter skin is synonymous with beauty and grace in most cultures. Both men and women yearn for that glowing, fair skin, without realizing that it could be obtained only genetically. In certain regions of Latin America and Africa, colonization led to indigenous citizens craving for white skin or to be more specific, the lighter color of the European settlers. The introduction of cosmetics and beauty care products in the market is a result of this centuries old yearning for fair skin, which is possible today, though at a hefty price. Though many people oppose skin whitening, considering it as an attempt at racial transformation, the fact remains that this is one consumer demand that has come to stay. Skin whitening products are available in the market in the form of pills, soaps, lotions, and creams.
Statistics reveal that nearly 2 out of 5 Asian women use skin-lightening creams regularly. In fact, countless consumers all over the world go in for expensive skin whitening products that promise fast and effective results. A large number of people misinterpret the meaning of 'skin whitening' and expect miraculous results from skin whitening products. This is because of their perception that these products on regular usage help generating several shades lighter skin. However, skin - whitening products only serve to reverse the ill effects of melanin formation.
Although most women purchase skin whitening products, not many are aware of the ingredients that produce whitening effects. Many manufacturers use hazardous ingredients such as mercury or hydroquinone in skin whitening products.
Since these ingredients block melanin formation, consumers tend to see rapid results. However, hydroquinone and mercury cause hazardous side effects such as uneven skin tone, peeling of skin, large pores, dark patches, and premature aging. Other health hazards associated with products containing mercury are kidney and liver failure, and injury to the nervous system. Excessive use of these products can even lead to skin cancer, while expecting women that use such products can give birth to babies with deformity or brain damage. With growing awareness about these risks in health care products, many countries have banned the use of mercury in such products. Since the year 2001, Hydroquinone has been banned in UK followed by some Asian countries like Malaysia. The ban has managed to curb the use of hydroquinone to some extent but not entirely. Some skincare products containing less than 2 percent hydroquinone are still sold in the United States.
Recently, Chinese authorities discovered two toxic metals, neodymium and chromium, in nine SK-II products. Procter and Gamble who owns this brand, immediately suspended the sale of these products in China. With a growing concern regarding the safety of these products, large number of companies is being brought under the microscope. Unlike drugs, cosmetics are not governed by stringent rules in most countries. Due to the lack of a proper regulatory system, manufacturers do not prove the efficacy of their products before introducing them in the consumer market. It is also imperative for the Government to enforce strict import rules to discourage the use of substandard products. As a safe bet, consumers can opt for products manufactured in countries that implement strict product labeling rules.
For more information log on to the website of Urist Cosmetics at www. skinlightening. com for more details or e-mail customer service department at customerservice @ skinlightening. com
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