Immunoglobulin levels in maternal blood, cord blood and breast milk of Nigerian pregnant women using hydroquinone and non-hydroquinone containing skin lightening creams

Abstract

Skin lightening cream, refers to any substance or mixture used for the purpose of lightening the skin color. It lightens the skin by inhibiting the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme used in synthesis of melanin, the dark skin pigment. This action does not bleach the existing skin pigment but stops the formation of new dark pigment. A significant proportion of individuals misuse these products thereby over lightening their skins.

Childhood effects of prenatal and postnatal exposure to mercurial skin lightening agents. Literature Review

“…A recent study documented higher levels of inorganic mercury in cord blood of children born to mothers who continued to carry out skin bleaching during pregnancy. 67 These levels of mercury in cord blood were associated with lower fetal Immunoglobulin G levels, which may be associated with increased susceptibility to disease. 67 Chronic exposure to inorganic mercury has been documented to exacerbate systemic lupus erythematosus 29,47 , induce systemic autoimmunity and negatively influence several functions of neutrophils.…”