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 applied at night? After receiving 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. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology


It is best to directly ask the prescribing physician your questions.

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. The two creams you mentioned, WHITE CREAM and AZEL CREAM, have different active ingredients and recommended usage patterns.

WHITE CREAM: The specific active ingredients in WHITE CREAM can vary by manufacturer, but common components in skin whitening products include hydroquinone, kojic acid, arbutin, and various forms of vitamin C. These ingredients work by inhibiting melanin production, which can help lighten hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.
Regarding its application, many users can apply WHITE CREAM in the morning, but it is essential to follow it up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Sunscreen is critical because many whitening agents can make the skin more sensitive to UV rays, potentially leading to further pigmentation if adequate protection is not used. Therefore, applying sunscreen after using WHITE CREAM is highly recommended to protect the skin from sun damage and to enhance the effectiveness of the whitening treatment.

AZEL CREAM, which contains azelaic acid, is another effective option for skin whitening. Azelaic acid is known for its ability to treat acne and rosacea, in addition to its skin-lightening properties. It works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production. Due to its potential for causing irritation, it is often recommended to be used at night. This allows the skin to recover and reduces the risk of photosensitivity.
In terms of effectiveness for reducing pigmentation, both WHITE CREAM and AZEL CREAM can be beneficial, but their efficacy may vary based on individual skin types and the specific conditions being treated. If you have undergone laser treatment, your dermatologist may have prescribed these creams to help accelerate the fading of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
However, it is important to note that while these creams can be effective, they are not the only options available. Other topical agents, such as tranexamic acid, vitamin C derivatives (like magnesium ascorbyl phosphate), and licorice extract, have also shown promising results in treating hyperpigmentation.
In summary, both WHITE CREAM and AZEL CREAM can be effective for skin whitening, but they have different active ingredients and recommended usage times. WHITE CREAM can generally be used in the morning with sunscreen, while AZEL CREAM is better suited for nighttime application. Always consult with a dermatologist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific skin concerns, especially after procedures like laser treatments. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your skin type and the nature of your pigmentation issues.

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