Smoothy Slim
Photo by Nicola Barts Pexels Logo Photo: Nicola Barts

Which cream can I use to remove black spots on my face?

Hydroquinone creams and serums Perhaps the most popular solution for skin lightening on a spot-by-spot basis is topical solutions containing hydroquinone.

How do you reset your liver?
How do you reset your liver?

Focus on a healthy diet getting sufficient fiber from sources like whole grains as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. choosing lean protein...

Read More »
Is it better to blend or juice carrots?
Is it better to blend or juice carrots?

But here's the thing: it's easier to absorb all the nutrients and antioxidants from carrots in juice form. Jun 8, 2020

Read More »
7-second natural hack eats through 64lbs of belly flab
7-second natural hack eats through 64lbs of belly flab

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »

From freckles and age spots to scarring, many things can make your complexion look uneven. While harmless, uneven skin may prompt some people into trying various skin lightening products. While there are many skin lightening products and solutions on the market, they aren’t all created equal, and some could even be dangerous. Knowing what to look for can help you choose a safe option if you find yourself wanting a more even complexion. Hyperpigmentation, or dark spots, can be caused by acne scars, excessive sun exposure, or hormonal changes, according to David E. Bank, MD, of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. “There are a variety of creams and serums that patients can use to help lighten, brighten, and diminish dark areas over time,” he said. Each of these treatment options come with some risks. Read on to find which option may work best for you. Hydroquinone creams and serums Perhaps the most popular solution for skin lightening on a spot-by-spot basis is topical solutions containing hydroquinone. A 2013 study found potential benefits for facial melasma, which causes patches of discoloration. More research is needed to determine the full scope of effectiveness. While previously available over-the-counter (OTC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) changed the status of hydroquinone in 2021 and it is now only available as a prescription. While deemed safe for use in cosmetic products, the concentration of hydroquinone is limited because it poses greater risks at higher concentrations. In fact, in South Africa, it’s not legal for any use at all. It’s also classified as “expected to be toxic or harmful” in Canada. There are concerns that this ingredient could cause cancer, but the existing research is limited. It’s recommended that people only use products containing hydroquinone on a short-term basis, if at all. If you experience irritation, unusual darkening of the skin, or any other side effects, stop using it immediately. Retinoid solutions Products like Retin-A and Renova are an alternate solution. They contain retinoic acid, which works to increase cell turnover, speed up exfoliation, and promote new, healthy skin growth. There is clinical research linking retinoids and improvements in skin photoaging, including on Black skin . These ingredients can be considerably drying and make the skin more sensitive to the sun’s rays. If you opt for these solutions, understand that they can take a few months or longer to work. Make sure you wear sunscreen every day. Laser treatments and peels A more aggressive option for lightening dark spots is laser treatment, which uses concentrated light energy. Some laser treatments target the pigment itself, while others work by removing the skin layer by layer. With this method, the darkened layers of skin are burned off. There are several different types of laser treatment. This solution works faster than topical products. But, needless to say, there are risks. With laser skin lightening, you may experience: swelling

redness

tightness

scarring

infection

changes in the skin’s texture

Other solutions You can find OTC products that claim skin lightening and “correcting” abilities via natural ingredients. According to Bank, common compounds in these products include: vitamin C

azelaic acid

pomegranate extract

beta carotene

licorice extract There are still some risks with these products. Your skin could have a sensitivity or allergic reaction to nearly anything — “natural” products included.

What can I drink for energy?
What can I drink for energy?

Healthy Energy Drinks: Delicious and Nutritious Yerba Mate. Yerba mate is a drink that is fast gaining popularity around the world. ... Green Tea....

Read More »
How long should you go without showering your body?
How long should you go without showering your body?

Generally, she said, "you should be showering, bathing or cleansing yourself every two to three days." Though, if you're working out or engaging in...

Read More »
7-second natural hack eats through 64lbs of belly flab
7-second natural hack eats through 64lbs of belly flab

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »

How do you sleep lighter?
How do you sleep lighter?

Tips to sleep less Give yourself time to wind down. The goal here is to train your body to fall asleep when you're tired. ... Turn off your...

Read More »
What foods cleanse kidneys?
What foods cleanse kidneys?

Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is effective in preventing oxidative stress of the kidneys. ... Kidney Beans. Kidney beans not only...

Read More »
Fizzy juice “eats through” 59lbs of stubborn fat
Fizzy juice “eats through” 59lbs of stubborn fat

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »
Are Brussel sprouts good for gut health?
Are Brussel sprouts good for gut health?

High in Fiber The fiber in Brussels sprouts—over 3 grams per cup, according to the USDA—helps regulate blood sugar levels, support digestive...

Read More »
Tasty juice “eats through” 54lbs of thick flab
Tasty juice “eats through” 54lbs of thick flab

This effective juice jolts the metabolism, boosts energy and burns fat all day.

Learn More »
Does vitamin C give you energy?
Does vitamin C give you energy?

Alongside this, vitamin C benefits our energy levels, by maintaining and supporting energy production. The mechanism at work is how vitamin C works...

Read More »