Skin Whitening Creams: Ingredients, Usage, and Effectiveness - Dermatology

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Whitening cream


What is the whitening ingredient in WHITE CREAM? Can it be applied in the morning? Should sunscreen be applied after using it? Is AZEL CREAM also a whitening ointment? Is it used at night? After undergoing laser treatment, the clinic doctor prescribed these two ointments.
Are these two creams more effective for fading pigmentation, or are there other ointments that are more effective for this purpose? Thank you!

Q, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/03/25

Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology


1.
The term "white cream" should refer to a whitening ointment, but the main ingredients need to be provided by the manufacturer to determine its composition.
2.
Azelaic acid (Azel Cream) itself can treat acne and has a whitening effect, but it can be relatively irritating; therefore, it is better to apply whitening ingredients at night.
3.
Here are some whitening ingredients approved by the Department of Health (in terms of cosmetics) that can help reduce pigmentation: Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (3%) - a form of Vitamin C; Kojic Acid (2%); Ascorbyl Glucoside (2%); Arbutin (7%); Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (3%); Ellagic Acid (0.5%); Chamomile Extract (0.5%); Tranexamic Acid (2-3%); Potassium Methoxysalicylate (1-3%): 4MSK (currently heavily advertised 4-Methoxysalicylate); 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (1-2%); 5,5’-Dipropyl-biphenyl-2,2’-diol (0.5%).
All these ingredients are said to have whitening effects.
4.
There is no single ingredient that claims to be the most effective for reducing pigmentation.
Generally, combining sunscreen with whitening products is more effective, as any progress made at night can be undone during the day if sun protection is inadequate.

Reply Date: 2008/03/25

More Info


When it comes to skin whitening creams, understanding their ingredients, usage, and effectiveness is crucial for achieving desired results while minimizing potential side effects. Let's delve into the specifics of WHITE CREAM and AZEL CREAM, their active ingredients, recommended usage, and their effectiveness in treating hyperpigmentation.


WHITE CREAM
The term "WHITE CREAM" is somewhat generic, and the specific active ingredients can vary by manufacturer. Commonly, skin whitening creams may contain ingredients such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, arbutin, or vitamin C derivatives. These ingredients work by inhibiting melanin production in the skin, which helps to lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.

Usage: Depending on the formulation, WHITE CREAM can often be applied in the morning. However, it is essential to follow the instructions provided by your dermatologist or the product label. If the cream contains potent active ingredients that can increase photosensitivity, it is advisable to apply it in the evening.
Sunscreen: Regardless of when you apply WHITE CREAM, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day is crucial. Sunscreen protects the skin from UV rays, which can exacerbate pigmentation issues and counteract the effects of whitening treatments. Even if you apply the cream in the morning, sunscreen should be a non-negotiable part of your skincare routine.


AZEL CREAM
AZEL CREAM contains azelaic acid, which is known for its dual action as both a treatment for acne and a skin lightening agent. Azelaic acid works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production, thus helping to reduce hyperpigmentation.

Usage: It is generally recommended to apply AZEL CREAM in the evening. This is because azelaic acid can be somewhat irritating to the skin, especially when first introduced into a skincare regimen. Applying it at night allows the skin to recover and minimizes the risk of irritation from sun exposure.


Effectiveness in Treating Hyperpigmentation
Both WHITE CREAM and AZEL CREAM can be effective in treating hyperpigmentation, but their effectiveness may vary based on individual skin types and the severity of pigmentation.
- WHITE CREAM: If it contains potent ingredients like hydroquinone or kojic acid, it may provide quicker results in lightening dark spots. However, prolonged use of hydroquinone is not recommended due to potential side effects, including skin irritation and a condition known as ochronosis, which causes bluish-black discoloration of the skin.

- AZEL CREAM: This cream is often well-tolerated and can be used long-term without the same risks associated with hydroquinone. It may take longer to see results compared to more aggressive whitening agents, but it is generally safer for prolonged use.


Other Options for Hyperpigmentation
If you are looking for alternatives or complementary treatments, consider the following ingredients that are known for their skin-lightening properties:
1. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): An antioxidant that helps brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots.

2. Kojic Acid: Derived from fungi, it is effective in inhibiting melanin production.

3. Niacinamide: This form of vitamin B3 can help improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots.

4. Tranexamic Acid: This ingredient has gained popularity for its ability to reduce melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation.


Conclusion
In summary, both WHITE CREAM and AZEL CREAM can be effective for skin whitening and treating hyperpigmentation, but their usage and effectiveness can vary. Always consult with a dermatologist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific skin type and condition. Additionally, incorporating sun protection into your daily routine is essential for achieving and maintaining results.

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