Skin bleaching is harmful

MEN AND women continue to apply various mixtures to lighten their skin or as is commonly said, "to give a cool complexion".

These mixtures vary from toothpaste and over-the-counter bleaching creams to some stronger mixtures containing illegally sold steroids for example, Topiclear and Reggae Lemon gel. These products work either by breaking down the pigment, melanin, in our skin, or as in the case of the steroids, by reducing the production of the pigment. In both cases the skin suffers. The mixtures generally are very irritating and result in unhealthy looking skin. Steroids cause loss of pigment as a side effect. Other side effects include stretch marks, thinning of the skin, and severe steroid acne. Some persons require treatment for dark spots or patches on the face, or the persistent dark marks left by insect bites on the legs. These persons should be under the care of a dermatologist, who will prescribe safe treatments and careful follow up.

The safest way to achieve a "cool" complexion is to use a sunblock on the skin. We have all seen how after spending time in less sunny countries our skin appears "less dark". This is due to reduced production of pigment. A similar effect can be achieved by using a sunblock regularly. The sun's rays not only can cause skin cancer, but also more importantly for us in Jamaica, age and damage the skin. Compare the skin on the inside of your arm with that on the outer surface. The difference is due to sun damage. There are popular facial products on the market with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15. Remember, healthy skin is beautiful skin and that goes for all colours.

-- Dr. Clive Anderson,

dermatologist

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