A dermatologist in Rivers state, Dr. Belema Altridge has warned residents to avoid using skin whitening products as it may lead to serious health problems.
Dr. Altridge said most skin whitening products are made from dangerous chemical substances such as hydroquinone, steroid and mercury which causes cancer.
“The health dangers inherent in the use of bleaching products are too numerous to mention.
” When one uses a skin whitening product, it makes the skin to become thin thereby reducing the immunity level of the person.
“When the immune system becomes weak as a result of these substances, the person becomes exposed to various fungi and bacteria diseases.
” Also, wounds become very difficult to heal because the melanin which protects the skin becomes damaged.
“There is also the difficulty encountered when a healthcare provider wants to inject the person as a result of the exposed veins.
” This can also lead to diabetes, hypertension and so on” he said.
He added that whitening products have hydroquinone although it is not known, the full extent of the health risks hydroquinone poses. It is considered to be cytotoxic (toxic to cells), mutagenic and carcinogenic (cancer causing).
He maintained that Hydroquinine is thought to increase the risk of complications such as thyroid disorders, liver disease and adrenal dysfunction, saying that it has been banned for sale as a skin lightener in Europe, Japan, and Australia and many groups are calling for the Food and Drug Administration FDA to ban this chemical in the US.
Dr. Belema Altridge also advised residents on how they can take proper care of their skin.
” Exercise is one of the important ways of keeping the skin beautiful and healthy because it increases blood flow and keeps them vital.
” Blood carries oxygen and nutrients to working cells throughout the body, including the skin,”
” In addition to providing oxygen, blood flow also helps carry away waste products, including free radicals, from working cells.
” Also,what one eats goes a long way too, it is advisable that one eats enough fruits and vegetables daily to keep the skin glowing” he concluded.
