Dermatologist Warns: Stop Using Fairness Creams Now Before They Ruin Your Skin
Dermatologist warns against fairness creams causing long-term skin damage.
Fairness creams have long dominated the skincare market in India, marketed as quick fixes for lighter and brighter skin. But according to dermatologist Dr Aanchal Panth, these products often do more harm than good. In a recent Instagram post, she urged people to immediately stop using such creams, which commonly contain harmful steroids, warning that prolonged use can lead to irreversible skin problems.
Dr Panth explained that while steroid-infused creams may show instant results such as lighter-looking skin, they trigger severe side effects in the long run. Continuous use can cause thinning of the skin, visible veins, redness, burning sensations, excessive facial hair growth, and stubborn acne. Over time, many users also experience severe pigmentation issues, making their skin tone uneven and unhealthy.
One of the most alarming effects, she noted, is the addictive nature of these creams. Many people find their skin breaking out or darkening the moment they stop applying them, which forces them to keep using these creams. Dr Panth highlighted that the skin essentially becomes “intoxicated” by the steroids, prompting dependency that is difficult to escape.
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But there is hope—with the right care and patience, recovery is possible. For those who have used fairness creams for extended periods, Dr Panth recommends quitting immediately and switching to gentler routines. She suggests using a bland moisturizer multiple times a day, regular application of plain zinc oxide sunscreen, a mild night cleanser, and soothing gels containing centella asiatica, green tea, or panthenol. In severe cases, consulting a dermatologist is crucial, since recovery could take anywhere between three months to a year depending on the extent of damage.
The bigger message remains clear: fairness creams may temporarily mask skin issues, but they ultimately leave behind deeper, more dangerous problems. As Dr Panth emphasizes, true skin health cannot come from steroids disguised as fairness solutions. Instead, professional guidance, sun protection, and long-term skincare habits are what truly safeguard beauty and wellbeing.
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