Delightfully light!

A fair and glowing skin is what we always dream of. We constantly try to find out ways and means to get a few shades lighter. No doubt Skin Lightening is currently the most sought-after treatments in India. Fairness products are being used by millions, many of which contain steroids. Prolonged use of these products can lead to severe skin damage and long-term complications.

Skin lightening is not about making you two shades lighter, but getting glowing, radiant, clear and blemish free skin. All skin lightening treatments offered by dermatologists and aesthetic clinics, work towards this goal. After undergoing skin lightening treatment, the skin appears to be healthy and glowing with reduced appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots. There are various clinical treatments that will give you that desired look.

Chemical peels:  Chemical peeling is a skin rejuvenating method that uses chemicals to remove superficial layers of the skin in a controlled manner. It effectively reduces dead cells and blemishes. These peels are available at various concentrations and the appropriate peel is recommended after assessing the skin condition. Post treatment, skin appears regenerates with a smooth texture. Chemical peel treatment is helpful in treatment of melasma due to sun damage, drug reaction or hormonal imbalance.

Laser treatment: Laser skin toning and lightening is  very popular. Laser technology helps in breaking of melanin pigment that causes hyperpigmentation. Q-switch laser such as Tri-Beam Treatment targets the excessive melanin in your skin and gives you an even complexion. This is a very safe technique and has absolutely no downtime. The results achieved are excellent and can be maintained with use of recommended home care and sun protection. This treatment has been proven effective for skin rejuvenation and lightening, producing uniform skin tone and radiant look.

Products: Topical use of products containing whitening ingrediants such as hydroquinone, arbutin, zzelaic acid, kojic acid, retinoic acid, vitamin C serums along with oral glutathione capsules are useful in various skin conditions. Your dermatologist will prescribe or recommend necessary product after assessing the condition.

Consult with your dermatologist to know the right treatment option for you. All these treatments work as long as treatment plan is derived and directed by your doctor. These treatments must be performed in a clinic under the supervision of the physician in order to avoid risks. The very procedures used to lighten the skin may actually cause the opposite if not used correctly.

Do's and Dont’s: Avoid direct sun exposure and use of broad-spectrum sun screen every four hours is a must. Keep your skin moisturised and protected from harsh environment. Simultaneous use of home remedies or cosmetic products during treatment course should be avoided. Certain conditions like melasma tend to reoccur with sun exposure, so care must be taken on daily basis. Counselling is very important before going for any treatment about results, pre and post treatment care, no. of sessions required. Multiple treatments at a week’s interval deliver greater results.

Price: Cost is different for different treatment options. It may range from ` 5000 to ` 10000 per session.

– The writer is a dermatologist. Disclaimer: Always check with a specialist before going ahead with this procedure