IIndia’s obsession with fair skin needs a reality check. According to the golden rule of the beauty industry, someone’s natural skin tone can only be realistically determined by the shade behind their ears. Any thought of aspiring to match the tone of one’s chest, midriff, or forearms is a fleeting dream, as these areas will forever appear fair. It is not possible to change the color of your skin like a Bollywood celebrity like Aishwarya Rai by injection or any other method. Most Indians have a skin type classification of four or five, which means they have high levels of melanin – the pigment that gives human skin its colour.
This desire for fairer complexions has given rise to a billion-dollar skin-lightening industry, resulting in a worrying trend of skin bleaching and other harmful beauty practices. Therefore, it is necessary to dispel the myth that this is a realistic goal for everyone.
Beware of marketing gimmicks
It is troubling to note unethical marketing and sales practices despite the known risks of these products.
Some combination over-the-counter medications contain potentially harmful ingredients, such as mercury, steroids, hydroquinone, and glutathione, which can thin the skin and cause a pigmentation reaction. The pigment may initially go away with these products, but eventually, it will return with such a vengeance that it may even Cause kidney failure. In addition, prolonged use of such products may increase the risk of skin cancer.
prevalence of trend This is a matter of concern especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where people are looking for more and more fair skin. The alarming increase in overdose poisonings in persons using these products underscores the urgent need for strict control and monitoring. Lack of proper regulatory oversight and medical evaluation including kidney function tests is a cause for concern. This issue is more important than it appears, and it is important to address it before it spirals out of control. The government should take measures to ban skin whitening products that are sold without proper regulation.
Microdermabrasion, skin peels, and whole-body carbon laser treatments are commonly used in dermatology to improve skin complexion. While these treatments can be effective, some patients opt for whitening injections containing glutathione. Glutathione is an antioxidant that occurs naturally in the skin and when administered externally, may help Reduce pigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production. It is important to note that the success of this treatment depends on the patient being chosen wisely, and the dosage varies from person to person. However, if done correctly, glutathione treatments can be an effective way of skin whitening.
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What is glutathione?
Glutathione is being marketed as a holy grail product for those looking to lighten their skin tone. It is available in various forms, such as injections, tablets, sublingual tablets and patches. This naturally occurring substance is produced by the liver and plays an important role in the body’s anti-oxidant defense system. It helps with tissue formation and repair, free radical neutralization, immune system support, anti-cancer activity and even has anti-aging benefits. However, as we age, glutathione levels in our liver decrease, which leads to pigmentation, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
To lighten skin tone and take advantage of glutathione’s other health benefits, doctors usually prescribe a dose of 600 to 1,200 milligrams once or twice a week for one to two months. However, for people with severe skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, the dose required may be higher, and treatment may need to be continued for a longer period of time. Furthermore, only L-glutathione, the active form of glutathione, is suitable for use. Other forms of glutathione commonly found in pills may not be as effective.
It is better to take other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, carotenoids and selenium. As far as L-glutathione is concerned, it should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally under the tongue or through intravenous (IV) drug therapy.
As a dermatologist, I find that only the injectable form works because the substance bypasses the digestive tract and enters the bloodstream directly, proving to be more effective than other forms of treatment available.
However, limited evidence supports the use of glutathione for skin lightening. For starters, it is only available as a parenteral formulation (suspension or solution for injection into the body). allowed For severe liver disorders and for the prevention of nerve damage associated with chemotherapy in India. While glutathione is marketed as a dietary supplement in the US, the Philippines has only approved its (injectable) use for cancer patients at risk of side effects from platinum-based chemotherapy. Despite this, it is being used unabated in many countries for skin whitening.
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switch to healthy options
The only way to get healthy and glowing skin is to embrace your natural complexion and follow a rigorous safety regime. This includes protecting it from environmental factors such as pollution and ultraviolet radiation, and using products suitable for one’s skin type. By doing so, individuals can achieve their best skin and feel confident in their natural beauty.
Instead of resorting to cosmetic treatments for skin whitening, a glowing and even complexion can be achieved by following simple tips. First and foremost, it is important to maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and beta-carotene can aide and fight sun-induced damage internally. It is essential to drink at least a gallon of water daily to keep your skin hydrated and glowing. Apart from this, sunscreen should be applied diligently to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun.
Restful sleep is also an important factor in revitalizing and rejuvenating the skin. A regular cleansing detox can help remove impurities, and applying a nourishing night cream can help replenish skin’s moisture. Vitamin C serums and various skin ointments with berry extracts can help reduce tanning. Start with the lowest concentration and patch test each product to get the most benefits.
Lastly, indulging in the luxurious ritual of a relaxing oil massage can enhance the texture and glow of the skin. Anyone can have a healthy, glowing complexion by following these simple tips.
As a dermatologist, I always advise my patients to be cautious when it comes to skin whitening. It is important to consult a qualified professional and choose products and treatments that are safe and suitable for your skin type. Maintaining a healthy skincare routine and avoiding excessive sun exposure can help maintain a brighter and more even skin tone — no matter what shade.
Dr Deepali Bhardwaj is a Dermatologist, Anti-allergy specialist, Laser Surgeon and Internationally trained Esthetician. She tweets @dermatdoc. Thoughts are personal.
(Edited by Zoya Bhatti)