Skin bleaching cream can be used on the body for a variety of reasons, including lightening freckles, age spots, and uneven skin tone. While some ingredients may be common among products, there usually are different types of skin bleaching creams available. Glycolic acid, hydroquinone, and mercury typically are the main ingredients that make a difference in the types of bleaching creams.

Glycolic acid may be commonly used in cosmetic procedures and found as a main ingredient in some over-the-counter skin lightening products. Regular treatments of these products could lighten the skin. It may take anywhere from a few to several applications to achieve results, which typically will vary from person to person. Stronger treatments are usually reserved for use by a physician or other qualified medical staff in an office setting. Side effects of glycolic acid-based skin lightening creams can consist of redness, irritation, burning, and peeling of the skin.

Hydroquinone treatments may not be legal in all areas of the world. When available, hydroquinone lightening systems are typically by prescription. Some over-the-counter forms of this skin bleaching cream may be purchased where it is legal to do so; however, they typically will contain only minimal amounts of the ingredient. Hydroquinone skin treatments can work in as little as four weeks and should not be used for prolonged periods of time. Possible side effects include crusting of the skin, swelling, burning, or itching; skin discoloration or skin disorders can also occur.

Skin bleaching creams that contain mercury have been ban in many different countries and regions worldwide. Still, it may be found in numerous lightening products on the market, both legally and illegally. Mercury can lighten the skin but may have numerous potential side effects. Potential outcomes of utilizing this type of skin bleaching cream include mercury poisoning, scarring of the skin, and eventual skin discoloration.

The possibility of side effects is present with any type of skin lightening product. While some people will not exhibit any side effects, this will ultimately vary on an individual basis, as will the severity of these conditions. Final results with skin bleaching cream can also differ significantly from person to person based on the person and his or her experience with the cream.