Q1) Are harmful chemicals present?
Yes. This fairness cream contains parabens, which I avoid. Parabens are cheap and effective preservatives that are endocrine system disruptors (estrogen mimickers). (See also Chemicals to Avoid – Parabens).
If you are completely fine with using a fairness cream with these chemicals, then I respect that. Please continue reading.
Q2) Are skin lightening ingredients present? (Q3) Strategy for skin lightening?
This is the first product that I have bought in India that contains Phenylethyl Rescorcinol. This is a powerful skin lightener, also called SymWhite® 377. According to its manufacturer*, SymWhite® 377 is as
- Approved as a skin lightener in China
- Is derived from pine trees
- Is a skin lightener as well as an anti-oxidant. The same manufacturer claims that 0.5 % SymWhite® 377 is more effective than 1.0 % Kojic Acid
(*Source: Ultroprospector)
In this product, there is also Ascorbyl Glucoside and Vitamin E, which through their anti-oxidant activity contribute to skin lightening.
My belief is that this is the product’s “hero” ingredient and mainly responsible for the product’s skin lightening.
Would I buy this product again?
No, as I don’t wish to use products containing parabens. If you are ok with parabens, then this product should lighten your skin.
As this is a night cream, I would suggest you use an SPF 30 sunscreen that protects your skin against both UVA and UVB during the day.
See also Top 5 sunscreen recommendations
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