Our faces are exposed to the sun more than any other part of our bodies. As a result, facial skin can get darker over time. In addition, hormonal changes and certain medications can lead to darker facial skin. There are steps you can take to lighten your face skin. Here are some tips.
1 : Protect your face from the sun. Make it a regular habit to wear a high-SPF sunscreen every single day. Apply the sunscreen about 20 minutes before leaving your home and reapply throughout the day as necessary. If you will be spending long amounts of time in the sun, wear a wide-brimmed hat that completely protects your face from sun exposure. Sun protection is the number-one way to achieve lighter skin.
2 : Purchase lightening creams. These skin lightening lotions are available at most drug stores or cosmetic counters. Most lightening products contain hydroquinone, which inhibits melanin production, thus resulting in lighter skin. There is some controversy surrounding hydroquinone, but it is still viewed as safe to use. If you prefer to use products with other ingredients, look for lightening lotions that contain mulberry, licorice or bilberry extract.
See a dermatologist regarding your skin-lightening goals. Dermatologists can prescribe skin-bleaching creams that are stronger than those available in standard drug stores. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding application and be aware that your skin will be more sensitive to the sun while you use these creams.
4 : Have a series of chemical peels performed on your face. Chemical peels are available in different strengths, ranging from light to deep. The stronger the peel, the deeper it penetrates into the skin. Deep peels treat the most layers of skin, effectively burning them away to reveal lighter, younger skin below. Be aware that you will experience some pain with chemical peels, particularly deep peels. Your skin will be red, irritated and swollen for a few days following the peel. If you wish to avoid this aftereffect, opt for a light peel. Peels work best when performed in a series.
5 : Get microdermabrasion done to your facial skin. Microdermabrasion involves a licensed technician rubbing a mini sandblaster-like device over your facial skin. Tiny crystals on the end of the device buff away dead, surface-level skin. Since the top layers of skin are removed, the skin below is brought to the forefront. This skin will have far less sun damage and be lighter than the prior top-level skin.
6 : Consider laser treatments to lighten your face. Lasers emit light which burns away the top, sun-damaged layers of your skin. The skin below will undoubtedly be lighter and more even-toned. Make sure you only have laser treatments performed by a licensed professional. Expect some pain during and following the treatment. Most people find they need a series of treatments to achieve the results they want
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