Skin-Lightening Cremes Sold On Black Market Said To Have Serious Health Risks

New details have emerged depicting that danger of using skin lightening creams sold on the black market.

As was described in a Clinical Picture described in the February 16, 2008 issue of The Lancet, Dr. Tricia Tan and Dr. Tony Goldstone of the Endrocrine Unit in the Department of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK, were involved in the team that treated the patients and co-authored this piece.

Reportedly, the woman, at 28 years old, had gained 12.7 kg (28.0 lb) in the previous three years and had been attempting impregnation for 18 months unsuccessfully, despite a regular menstrual cycle.

Furthermore, she also described stripes on her arms, back abdomen, and legs, in addition to sensitivity to bruising and recurrent thrush or yeast infection.

It is noteworthy of mention that the related doctors noted central obesity (a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 36.6 kg/m2, where a BMI that is greater than 30 is considered obese), a pad of fat between her shoulder blades, and round face. She had pigmented stretch marks on her body, as well as thin, bruised skin, and mild hair growth on her back and face, combined with muscle weakness.

A conclusion was made regarding skin-lightening cremes as they impact the clinical settting.
"Patients are often reluctant to admit that they have used skin-lightening creams - especially if these are supplied illegally. Similarly, doctors can be unaware of the need to inquire. But the market is worth millions of pounds a year, in the UK alone. Creams can contain toxic substances, such as steroids and hydroxyquinone - and patients are typically unaware of the risks."