Get new posts by email
Menu

Can bleaching creams cause blindness?

Newnaija 1 month ago 0 2
Can bleaching creams cause blindness [RFI]

Can a person go blind from using bleaching creams?

Skin lightening and whitening are sometimes used synonymously and refer to bleaching the skin, a treatment that makes the skin’s complexion lighter.

However, the use of hazardous materials in bleaching creams, including corticosteroids, hydroquinone, and mercury, raises questions about safety and puts one’s entire body at risk.

Skin bleaching is very popular in Nigeria and all over Africa as a result of the countries cultural views and love for westerners’s pale skin, all of which contribute to the popularity of skin bleaching creams.

According to the World Health Organisation, 77% of Nigerian women report bleaching compared to only 28% of men.

However, when it comes to blindness, the ingredient responsible is mercury.

Synonyms for mercury are frequently used by manufacturers in ingredient lists are “Hg,” “mercuric iodide,” “mercurous chloride,” “ammoniated mercury,” “amide chloride of mercury,” “quicksilver,” “cinnabaris (mercury sulphide),” and “hydrargyri oxydum rubrum.

Does skin bleaching cause blindness?

Mercury is used in skin bleaching products to inhibit melanin production; melanin causes a darker complexion.

However, when mercury is applied to the skin, it poses risks such as peripheral neuropathy, kidney damage, skin rashes, discolouration, scarring, reduced skin resistance to infections, anxiety, depression, and psychosis, according to a World Health Organisation research.

Using bleaching creams can permanently damage your skin [DailyTrust]
Using bleaching creams can permanently damage your skin [DailyTrust]

ALSO READ: 5 ways to know you bought a bleaching cream

The US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) issued warnings about possible hazards of exposure to mercury, including vision loss and lung health issues.

Additionally, a 2014 study published in the Medical Science Monitor journal discovered that long-term exposure to mercury can lead to visual impairment, especially in peripheral vision.

In conclusion, the use of skin-lightening lotions containing mercury over an extended period of time is especially risky since the metal accumulates in the body and becomes more difficult to remove.

Written By

Welcome to NewNaija, your ultimate source for the latest news, entertainment, and lifestyle trends in Nigeria and beyond. Our mission is to provide up-to-date and relevant content that keeps you informed and connected to the pulse of Nigeria. From breaking news and political updates to music, fashion, and tech, NewNaija covers it all with accuracy and speed.

Leave a Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

error

Enjoy this blog? Please spread the word :)

Copy link