What is a bleaching cream and how does it work?
Bleaching cream is a cosmetic product designed to lighten or whiten skin or hair pigmentation. It works by chemically modifying melanin, the pigment that gives skin and hair its color. This transformation is achieved through chemical agents such as hydrogen peroxide or ammonia, which break down melanin, resulting in a lighter color.
Why use a bleaching cream?
The use of a bleaching cream is recommended for a variety of aesthetic reasons, such as to reduce the appearance of hair on visible areas like the face, arms or legs, or to even out skin tone by reducing pigmentation spots or scars. It is also used as part of beauty routines to prepare the skin for other treatments such as tanning.
How to choose the right bleaching cream?
The choice of a bleaching cream must be made with care, taking into account the type of skin (sensitive, dry, oily), the area to be treated, and the desired results. It's essential to select products containing suitable ingredients to avoid skin reactions. Renowned brands often offer dermatologically tested products, reducing the risk of irritation.
What precautions should I take when using a bleaching cream?
It's crucial to follow product instructions carefully. A sensitivity test should be carried out 24 hours before full application to check for allergic reactions. Application should be uniform, avoiding sensitive areas such as the eyes. After application, the treated area should be thoroughly cleansed to remove all traces of cream.
What are the possible side effects of bleaching cream?
Side effects include reactions such as redness, itching or slight burning. In rarer cases, inappropriate use can lead to hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, i.e. unwanted darkening or lightening of the skin.
How to maximize the effectiveness of a bleaching cream?
To maximize the effectiveness of a bleaching cream, we recommend applying it regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions, and keeping the skin moisturized and protected from the sun. The use of sunscreen is essential to protect treated skin from UV damage, which can compromise the results of the bleaching treatment.
What's the difference between a bleaching cream and a lightening cream?
A bleaching cream acts primarily on the hair and skin, reducing natural pigment to achieve a lighter color, while a lightening cream is specifically formulated to reduce hyperpigmentation of the skin, such as dark spots and scars. Lightening creams generally target uneven skin tone by inhibiting melanin production.
2. Can a bleaching cream be used on all parts of the body?
No, not all areas of the body are suitable for the use of bleaching creams. Sensitive areas such as underarms, genitalia and the face require specific products with gentler formulations. Always read the manufacturer's instructions to avoid irritation or adverse reactions.
3. How long should I leave a bleaching cream on before rinsing?
The time needed to rinse off a bleaching cream varies according to the brand and product formulation. It is essential to follow the instructions on the product packaging. Typically, this time can vary from 5 to 15 minutes. Never exceed the recommended time to prevent any risk of chemical burns or irritation.
4. Can bleaching cream be used to treat age spots?
Bleaching creams are generally not recommended for age spots. These spots require products specifically designed to lighten or reduce hyperpigmentation, such as lightening creams with active anti-spot agents like hydroquinone, kojic acid or vitamin C.
5. How do I care for my skin after using bleaching creams?
After using bleaching creams, it's crucial to take care of the skin to maintain its hydration and health. Use nutrient-rich moisturizers to nourish the skin, and regularly apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the skin from UV rays, which can intensify pigments and reverse the effects of the bleaching treatment.
