Widespread Use of Toxic Skin Lightening Compounds: Medical and Psychosocial Aspects

Ladizinski, Barry; Mistry, Nisha; Kundu, Roopal V.

doi:10.1016/j.det.2010.08.010

Cited by 121 publications

(109 citation statements)

References 113 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Unclassified

Order By: Relevance

“…Most persons apply these products, which are available as creams, milks, oils, ointments and soaps, all over the body, whereas others apply them only on the face, neck and arms. The lightening agents contained in these products consist mainly of mercury (Hg), hydroquinone (1,4-dihydroxybenene) and topical corticosteroids (TCs), at different concentrations, together with other compounds (hydrogen peroxide, poly-hydroxy acids, azelaic acid, phenols, solvents and salicylic acid) [1,2,3]. These chemicals can induce adverse effects on human health, including cutaneous and systemic complications [4].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…The toxic effects of Hg, which can be extremely effective in lightening dark spots and stubborn pigmentation, are subtle and cumulative, building up over time. Skin contact with Hg compounds can lead to irritation, including patches of inflammation and the appearance of tiny, close together bumps, which may burst and discharge matter and later crust over, leading to soreness and discomfort [1,5,6,7]. …”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

See 1 more Smart Citation

Use of Potentially Harmful Skin-Lightening Products among Immigrant Women in Rome, Italy: A Pilot Study

Cristaudo¹,

D’Ilio²,

Gallinella³

et al. 2013

Dermatology

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Background: Skin-lightening products are increasingly common in European cities. These products may contain substances that are banned under EU regulations as they can induce adverse effects, including cutaneous and systemic reactions (e.g., mercury, hydroquinone and topical corticosteroids). Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of women regarding skin-lightening products and to quantify the potentially harmful substances in the products used. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study among 82 non-Italian women visiting an outpatient facility in Rome, Italy. The women completed a questionnaire on product use, side effects and risk awareness. We performed patch tests among a subgroup of 48 women who presented with contact dermatitis. We also quantified the allergenic and toxic substances in the 14 products reported, using dynamic reaction cell inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for metals and high-performance liquid chromatography for hydroquinone and topical corticosteroids. Results: Out of the 82 women, 33 used skin-lightening products; about one fourth of these women were aware of potential risks. Three cosmetic creams and two soaps contained high concentrations of metals (Cr, Ni and Pb); hydroquinone was found in three creams and one oil. The only topical corticosteroid detected was dexamethasone, in one product. More than half of the women in the clinical evaluation had irritant contact dermatitis (i.e., negative response to patch test). Conclusions: Among immigrant women in Rome, the use of skin-lightening products seems to be fairly common, and some of these products contain potentially hazardous substances. Consumers must be informed of the potential risks, and EU regulations must be more strictly enforced.

show abstract

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Use of Potentially Harmful Skin-Lightening Products among Immigrant Women in Rome, Italy: A Pilot Study

Cristaudo¹,

D’Ilio²,

Gallinella³

et al. 2013

Dermatology

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

“…Such products can be prescribed to treat hyperpigmentation disorders 1 , but are more frequently used intentionally to lighten skin complexion. The regular and sustained use of skin bleaching products has been practiced in African and Asian contexts for decades, with prevalence estimates from 25% to 96% [2][3][4][5][6] . Skin bleaching continues to affect communities "of colour" disproportionately 6 , but has extended beyond the African and Asian continents [7][8][9][10][11] .…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

"The fairer the better?" Use of potentially toxic skin bleaching products.

Darj¹,

Infanti²,

Ahlberg³

et al. 2016

Afr H. Sci.

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Abstract:Background: Skin bleaching is a widespread phenomenon in spite of their potentially toxic health effects. Objectives: This study aimed to determine if such products are used in Sweden in particular by pregnant women, furthermore to explore immigrant women's view skin bleaching. Methods: 455 pregnant women completed a questionnaire, which were statistically analysed. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted with immigrant women, content analysis was used to assess the data. Results: Skin bleaching products were used by 2.6% of pregnant women, significantlly more by women born in non-European countries. Motivating factors were associated with the concept of beauty together with social and economic advantages. The women had low awareness of the potential health risks of the products. Regulations on the trade of skin bleaching products have not effectively reduced the availability of the products in Sweden nor the popularity of skin bleaching. Conclusion: There is need for further research especially among pregnant women and possible effects on newborns. Products should be tested for toxicity. Public health information should be developed and health care providers educated and aware of this practice, due to their potential negative health implications.

show abstract

“…This obsession for fair skin has led to skin lightening products occupying 61% of the Indian dermatological market. 13 The most common TC used in our study was Betnovate valerate 0.1% in 49% cases. Inakanti Y et al reported betnovate (containing Betnovate valerate 0.1%) use in 79.2% cases and Saraswati A et al in 50% cases.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Topical corticosteroid abuse on face: a clinical study of 100 patients

Bains

2016

Int J Res Dermatol

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Background: Prolonged and uninterrupted use of topical corticosteroids on face is globally prevalant and this misuse has reached monstrous proportion in India. The topical corticosteroid abuse leads to various local adverse effects on face which are difficult to treat. The aim of this study was to ascertain the magnitude, demographics, cause and adverse effects of TC abuse on the face in the dermatology out-patient department.Methods: A total of 100 patients with history of topical corticosteroid abuse on face for a minimum period of one month were enrolled in this study.Results: In our study, majority of the patients were females (76%) and the most common age group was 21-30 years with 49% patients. The duration of application was <6 months (45%) in majority of patients. Most common topical corticosteroids abused were betamethasone valerate in 49% and clobetasol propionate in 40% cases.Conclusions: Topical corticosteroid abuse on face is quite common with varied presentation. There is need to take urgent remedial steps and increase awareness about this problem in general population.

show abstract

Widespread Use of Toxic Skin Lightening Compounds: Medical and Psychosocial Aspects

Cited by 121 publications

References 113 publications

Use of Potentially Harmful Skin-Lightening Products among Immigrant Women in Rome, Italy: A Pilot Study

Use of Potentially Harmful Skin-Lightening Products among Immigrant Women in Rome, Italy: A Pilot Study

"The fairer the better?" Use of potentially toxic skin bleaching products.

Topical corticosteroid abuse on face: a clinical study of 100 patients

Contact Info

Product

Resources

About