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How Bleach Affects the Skin

Skin bleaching to lighten the complexion or eliminate scars, freckles and age spots should be approached with caution. Hydroquinone, mercury, arsenic, alpha hydroxyl acid, lumiskin and arbutin are among the substances used to reduce or stabilize melanin production in the skin. Melanin is produced within the skin layers and determines skin color. Higher levels of melanin produce darker skin tones.

  1. Hydroquinone

    • Hydroquinone is a highly toxic chemical also used in photo processing, hair dyes, paints, motor fuels and oils, and rubber production. Side effects of low concentration include skin irritation, discoloration and thinning. In cancer research it has caused toxicity in several human organs and leukemia in mice. France and Kenya have banned its use in skin products.

    Arsenic

    • Arsenic is a well-known poison that has found its way into skin care products. The good news is that it has been banned from skin care use in the United States, although arsenic still can be found in products selling at clearance and at Mom and Pop stores. Cancer threat makes arsenic an undesirable ingredient in skincare products.

    Mercury

    • Mercury is a natural element found in air, water and soil. The U.S. has banned mercury use in skin care products, although skin care products containing mercury compounds are imported into the U.S. Neurological problems, sensation disorders or feelings of pins and needles can result from skin exposure to mercury. Length of exposure determines the severity of problems. No current data suggests that mercury exposure causes cancer in humans, although tests have shown tumors in rats and mice.

    Alpha Hydroxyl Acid, Lumiskin, and Arbutin

    • Alpha Hydroxyl Acid, also known as fruit acid, is used in chemical peels. The acid properties act as an expedient with side effects including reddening and irritation.

      Arbutin, an extract of the bearberry plant, is an all-natural method of lightening the skin. Arbutin works without affecting the formation of melanin. Arbutin is combined with tyrosinase to accelerate the decomposition and drainage of melanin. Tyrosinase is a copper-containing enzyme found in plant and animal tissue that works by oxidizing melanin.

      Lumiskin, an extract of Chilean tree bark, is also a natural method of lightening the skin that works with tyrosinase. There are no known side effects.

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