In the past, tanning was a very popular activity due to society’s lack of knowledge on the effects that the sun has on the skin. Now, many women from the Baby Boomer generation are covered in sunspots or other forms of discoloration and want their skin to appear more fair/even. Aside from anti-aging, skin lightening products are some of the most popular in the cosmetic industry. These products are very effective, yet they come with a few risks so many are seeking home remedies.

Before you read the rest of this article, I want you to be realistic about your results. If you are practicing skin lightening because you are unhappy with your skin color it may be best to seek counseling; your skin may become clearer, but there is no way you can completely change your skin tone. Never go through dangerous methods like bathing in bleach or other harsh chemicals to achieve a lighter tone.

The Dangers of Skin Lightening Products

Getting beautiful and fair skin isn’t worth the risk that some skin lightening products can bring. Hydroquinone is a very common skin lightening agent; doctors even use it. If you want to purchase this ingredient over the counter you will only be able to buy a product with a 2 percent concentration; anything higher has to be prescribed by your physician. The ingredient is available in such small amount because it is a very strong chemical, in fact, it could burn your skin if you are not careful. Other effects of hydroquinone include:

Sun sensitivity- Your skin may become more sensitive to the sun after using a harsh lightener. Since the product is peeling away skin, deeper layers are now on the outside.

Discoloration- If you don’t practice effective sun safety them you can actually cause dark spots on the skin. Since the skin is more sensitive on a skin lightener, you are more susceptible to getting burned by the sun.

Skin cancer- Cancerous cells can also form if your skin isn’t protected from the sun.

Dry/peeling skin- Harsh chemicals can suck the life from your skin. When the skin gets too dry, it may begin to peel which can be tough to reverse.

Get Fair Skin at Home

Typically the skin will appear lighter by simply clearing any imperfections it holds. Acne, acne scars, sun spots, and other blemishes should be removed if you want beautiful and fair skin.

Banishing pesky acne

The redness that acne causes can make your skin look darker than it is so it is important to get rid of it.  The first step is to cleanse the skin; acne forms because either dirt, dry skin, oil, or bacteria is clogged in the pore. You should use a foaming cleanser if you are oily and cream if you are dry to ensure that your skin isn’t stripped of too much moisture. Use acne fighting ingredients after you cleanse to ensure you are treating your concern; a few stellar ingredients include:

• Salicylic acid
• Willow Bark
• Benzoyl peroxide
• Sulfur
• Retinol
• Tea tree oil
• Azelaic acid
• Lemon Juice
• Baking soda
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Egg whites
• Coconut oil
• Garlic
• Cornstarch
• Aloe

Clearing discoloration

Hyperpigmentation can occur for many reasons. The sun, acne, skin injury and friction are all things that can cause the skin to become dark. The best way to get rid of hyperpigmentation is through exfoliation. Exfoliation can happen by rubbing the face with a scrub or letting acid dissolve skin cells. You must wear sunscreen at all times if you want beautiful and fair skin. Learn how to get clear skin fast naturally.

Become a kitchen Esthetician

Why not have some fun and try a few skin lightening recipes. All of these ingredients can be found in the average home, and if you are missing an ingredient, it can be retrieved easily.  Here is a list of some fun and effective skin-clearing concoctions.

Vinegar Soak

• ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup of water

Milk facial

Milk facial

• ¼ cup of powdered milk
• Enough water to form a paste

Oatmeal Mask

• ½ cup of hot water
• 1/3 cup of oatmeal
• 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1 egg white

Yogurt Mask

• 1 teaspoon of plain yogurt
• Juice from ¼ of an orange
• A little bit of pulp
• 1 teaspoon of aloe

Check out some other homemade masks!

I am completely aware that this article had nothing to do with the sun, but if you want beautiful and fair skin you have to practice sun safety; which is why it is mentioned so heavily. Here are some key things you need to know before beginning your new skincare ritual:

• Always use sunscreen, you should be applying to every two hours if you are in direct sunlight. If you are going to be inside, invest in a translucent powder SPF so you can touch up throughout the day.
• Waterproof sunscreen is only good for 80 minutes then it begins to weaken.
• Stay out of the sun during peak hours, this is when the sun is at its summit. Get a broad spectrum sunscreen to ensure you are protected from UVA and UVB rays.
• When skin lightening you should avoid the sun as much as possible. Exfoliation can make the skin more sun sensitive which will reverse your results.

Learn how to properly apply sunscreen here