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All you need to know about skin whitening solutions available in Singapore
In Singapore, there are a variety of skin whitening solutions available — from topical over-the-counter products to professional treatments. In fact, we’re spoilt for choice and picking the right hyperpigmentation treatment can be confusing.Â
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about skin whitening solutions to help you achieve fairer, radiant and even-toned skin.
*To avoid confusion, in this article by skin whitening we mean lightening pigmentation marks and brightening skin, not whitening skin per se.
Topical treatments
Some common topical treatments include:Â
Hydroquinone
The enzyme tyrosinase is essential in melanin production, which is responsible for pigmentation in the skin. Hydroquinone works by inhibiting tyrosinase, effectively lightening skin and is used to treat conditions such as melasma, solar lentigines, freckles and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
This widely used topical treatment is available in 2% concentrations over-the-counter, and in stronger doses as prescriptions. Generally, it is recommended to apply a thin layer on the face or affected areas 1 to 2 times a day for 3 to 6 months, depending on the severity of hyperpigmentation.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a well-known ingredient found in a variety of skincare products for brightening and evening out skin tone. Vitamin C inhibits melanin production, encourages collagen production and has antioxidant properties. Together, these benefits provide a brightening effect, for rejuvenated, lighter-looking skin.Â
This makes it generally recommended for treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne scars or skin injuries. Additionally, vitamin C can protect the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays and increases the efficacy of sunscreen. Â
SkinLab has a Brightening Serum with Pure Vitamin C, which is a specialised solution that includes grapefruit extract. It contains the Intradermal System, which allows the serum to be better absorbed by the skin.
Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is a natural substance that is derived from certain species of mushrooms and fermented foods. Similarly, kojic acid prevents the formation of tyrosine, and hence, has a lightening effect on skin and lowers pigmentation. It also offers some antimicrobial properties, providing anti-acne benefits.Â
Kojic acid is typically well-tolerated by most skin types, making it a suitable option for those with sensitive skin. It can also be combined with other aforementioned ingredients, like vitamin c and hydroquinone, for enhanced results.Â
Depending on the type of formulation used, kojic acid can be used daily; preferably in the evenings. Adjust your usage accordingly to achieve optimal results.
Potential side effects and risks
Topical whitening treatments may have potential side effects and risks. It should be noted, though, that these can vary based on your skin type. Also, some manufacturers pay more attention to applicability of products across skin types. This is something SkinLab, for instance, takes seriously to minimise the risk of any side effects.
- Skin irritation — You may experience skin irritation, redness or itching.
- Dryness — Some treatments can cause skin flakiness or dryness.
- Allergic reactions — Allergic reactions, or contact dermatitis, can occur, causing inflammation, redness and swelling.
- Acne breakouts — Some topical products may cause acne, especially in those prone to breakouts.
- Skin barrier damage — Excessive use or harsher topical treatments can cause skin barrier disruption or damage.
- Systemic absorption — Hydroquinone cannot be taken for long-term use as it is absorbed systemically and can cause adverse side effects.
Natural remedies
On the milder end of the spectrum of skin whitening treatments, there are possible remedies derived from natural sources, such as plants. However, by themselves they may not always be effective – so we recommend looking out for products that contain these ingredients, instead of using them independently.Â
Licorice Extract
Licorice extract is a well-known traditional skin whitening ingredient for its ability to inhibit tyrosinase activity and hence, whiten skin and fade pigmentation for a clearer complexion over time. Its other properties include:
- Anti-inflammatory — it calms and soothes irritated skin, which helps reduce the likelihood of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Antioxidant benefits — licorice extract is rich in antioxidants, which helps premature ageing and improves overall skin health.
- Gentle on skin — it is generally mild, non-irritating and well-tolerated by most individuals, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Versatile — it is versatile and can be easily incorporated into various skincare formulations, making it easy to adopt into your daily skincare routine.
Papaya Extract
With the abundance of papaya soaps available on the market, papaya extract is a forerunner in whitening products. Papaya enzymes treat hyperpigmentation or discolouration in the skin by curbing excess melanin production. It is also an excellent exfoliant, sloughing off dead skin cells to reveal brighter skin underneath. Other benefits include:
- Oil control — papaya extract can regulate sebum production, which helps with acne-control, especially for those with oily skin.
- Heals scars — papaya extracts support skin regeneration and repair, aiding in healing scars and post-inflammatory pigmentation.
- Nutrient-rich — this natural ingredient is rich in vitamins A, C, E and antioxidants, which supports overall skin health and slows ageing.
- Moisturising — papaya extract can hydrate skin, increasing radiance while making it feel softer and smoother.
Turmeric
Tumeric has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, and is believed to enhance the complexion and promote skin radiance. It inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase to lighten skin pigmentation, and also offers other benefits such as:
- Anti-inflammatory — turmeric contains the anti-inflammatory compound, curcumin. This helps soothe redness and irritation, making it a good option for those who suffer from eczema or rosacea.
- Heals scars — turmeric is also traditionally used for wound healing or tissue repair.
- Antioxidant properties — turmeric offers anti-ageing benefits because of its antioxidant properties, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice’s acidic nature and high vitamin C content makes it a potent skin whitening treatment, lightening skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation. Lemon juice also has:
- Astringent properties — lemon juice is a natural astringent, tightening pores and shrinking pores. This may be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin.
- Exfoliation properties — lemon juice is a natural exfoliant as it contains citric acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), helping slough off dead skin cells for brighter and fairer skin.
- Antibacterial and antifungal — it has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help prevent acne breakouts and promote clearer skin.
Potential side effects and risks
Natural ingredients may seem to be a safe choice. However, they can still cause side effects, especially when they are used without the oversight or advice a professional.
- Allergic reactions — Certain natural ingredients may cause allergic reactions in some people. It’s always best to do a small patch test before trying on any new skincare regime, even if the ingredients are all-natural.
- Skin irritation — Some natural ingredients can cause skin sensitivity and irritation in high concentrations. For example, lemon juice is highly acidic and can exacerbate skin conditions like eczema or acne. Dilute the ingredients properly and try following a recipe.
- Staining — You may experience staining with some ingredients. For example, turmeric can temporarily stain the skin. This is not dangerous and will fade eventually with washing.
- Overuse — Using certain ingredients excessively or for prolonged periods can affect the skin’s natural pH balance and lead to dryness or even rebound hyperpigmentation.
Professional treatments
Professional treatments are often the most thorough skin-whitening solution and involve medical-grade solutions, such as energy-based machines and chemical peels.Â
Chemical Peels
As its name suggests, a chemical peel involves carefully formulated chemical solutions to exfoliate superficial layers of the skin to even out skin tone and reduce pigmentation.
The Melasma peel facial we offer at SkinLab is a 90-minute facial specialised peel made of medical-grade AHAs and active ingredients to address skin pigmentation, such as melasma, sun spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This treatment also includes a combination of natural aloe vera and cucumber extracts to deeply hydrate and brighten the skin.
Laser Treatments
Laser therapy for skin whitening utilises targeted light energy at specific wavelengths to target and destroy melanin pigments in the skin without affecting surrounding tissues. This, in turn, lightens the skin and reduces pigmentation to treat sun spots and uneven skin tones.Â
The Lumenis M22 Laser Face Treatment at SkinLab utilises an FDA-approved laser system to treat pigmentation and lighten skin. Using targeted laser therapy, it reduces melanin in targeted areas and events out skin tone while rejuvenating the skin and lightening fine lines and wrinkles.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion for skin whitening usually involves a diamond-tipped handpiece to gently remove the outer layer of skin. This reveals the brighter, lighter skin underneath, improving skin tone and removing superficial superficial pigmentation irregularities.Â
SkinLab’s Hydra-bright Facial is a 60-minute microdermabrasion treatment that brightens and deeply hydrates the face for a more radiant appearance. A diamond peel device is used to remove superficial skin, followed by a Vita B5 serum application to restore the skin’s natural skin barrier and promote skin healing.
Potential side effects and risks
While professional skin whitening treatments are effective, you would still need to consider e some potential side effects and risks. You should note, though, that with the help of a reliable skin care professional, you can minimise these risks.
- Downtime and recovery — Post-treatment side effects may include some skin redness and swelling. Although it is normal, you may want to take this into account when planning for treatments before important occasions to give your skin ample time to heal.
- Increased light sensitivity — Many professional skin whitening treatments cause skin sensitivity to sunlight, increasing your risk of sunburn and hyperpigmentation. Use adequate sun protection post-treatment.
- Infection — Although rare, any procedure that breaks the skin barrier carries a risk of infection. It is important to prevent this by following your therapist’s post-treatment care instructions closely.
- Treatment costs — Professional skin whitening treatments may require multiple sessions to achieve desired results, increasing the overall cost needed. However, this may be more cost-effective in the long run, as you reduce the need of trying and buying various topical solutions.
Which skin whitening treatment should you choose?
There is no right or wrong skin whitening treatment, but there is one better suited to your skin condition, skin concerns and desired results.
Before making a decision, consider:
- Your skin type
- Your current skin condition
- The type of pigmentation you have
- Your level of sensitivity
- Maintenance requirements for treatments
- Treatment safety profiles
- Treatment effectiveness
- Cost and accessibility
- Downtime and recovery
You should consult a professional who will be able to objectively assess your skin condition and see if your goals and needs can be met adequately.Â
Skin whitening in Singapore
The first step to achieving fairer, brighter and clearer skin is finding the right skin whitening treatment for you. SkinLab is a medical spa dedicated to treating all types of skin concerns with medical-grade facials and skincare products, carefully curated by professionals.