Every fairness cream in the world seems to imply that without it, one’s life is less successful, fruitful or eventful! While this is a commercial take on the best fairness cream, the phenomenon of “fair skin tone” is one which is given a lot of importance throughout the world.
In Western countries, fair skin was considered dainty, sophisticated, of a certain social standing as that meant that the lady in question had never soiled her hands with work or toiled out in the sun. Even in medieval times, face skin whitening cream existedalbeit containing a lot of harmful chemicals since people at that time did not know better. It is no wonder then that fair skin is associated with the concept of “beauty” by default.
In India, fairness has long been the hallmark of purity, beauty and often been associated with greater success in the marital department - especially for women. It is, however, interesting to note that the most common skin tone in India is medium brown skin tone - 70% Indians sport varying shades of this skin tone while only about 30% can actually be described as “fair skinned”. This fascination (bordering on obsession, really) has now even extended to men - it is now pretty commonplace to see a mens fairness creamcommercial on TV alongside a fairness cream for women.
Fairness Creams in the Market
There are a lot of fairness products in the market - the most popular being creams or ointments typically applied after cleansing. Fairness cream, face whitening moisturizer, face skin whitening cream - different names but they promise one thing - fairer skin and a happier life.
However, one must be careful about what ingredients are used in these fairness creams - especially those sold over the counter carelessly. Many contain topical steroids like betamethasone, which if applied for long periods can permanently damage the skin epidermis and may result in heightened sensitivity in sunshine, irritation, acne and hirsutism. It is a scary risk to take with one’s health and wellbeing just to chase fair skin which is actually acquired in an unhealthy manner. Even the best fairness cream comes with a disclaimer - it can cause itching, burning, redness and also severely affect sensitive skin.
Fairness with Iba
With Iba’s commitment towards gentle yet effective skin care free from sulphates, parabens, steroids, toxins and other nasties, the best fairness creamis part of our Diamond Facial Kit. The idea is to not just use fairness cream, but to establish a complete step-wise routine over a period of time to ensure not just lighter skin but healthy and glowing skin instead, which is more sustainable and has no adverse effects.
There are a number of products in Iba portfolio focusing on removal of scars, blemishes, improving and evening out dark spots and pigmentation rather than just promising skin a couple shades lighter than natural. Such routines, containing products like chamomile extract, witch hazel, aloe vera, marshmallow flower, etc. help the skin repair itself from within and lighter skin is just the by product.
No, fair skin is only a color and is not an indicator of skin health. There are many fair-skinned people who have severe acne and are susceptible to skin infections and many dark-skinned people whose skin glows with health and hydration. It is a myth propagated by mainstream media that fair equals healthy - the focus should be nourishment and repair of the skin instead of the color itself.
What are the common skin conditions faced by fair skin tone?
Redness, itching, sensitivity to bright sunlight, sunburns, freckles/moles, rashes, breakouts, irritation, etc. are some common skin conditions which are prevalent amongst people with lighter skin tone. It is important to remember of course that these issues might very well occur for all the rest as well.
My skin shade is dark to medium - how can I change it to fair?
You can use products like Iba’s 3-in-1 Instant Facial as a 1-step face care product to help lighten scars, blemishes and pigmentation so that your best skin color can shine through. Please do not believe claims which say that they can suddenly transform your skin tone from brown to pale as that will involve heavy, nasty chemicals which will alter your skin texture and lead to even bigger problems. Focus on building a skin care routine with the correct products instead.
Do fairness creams really work?
Any face skin whitening cream will contain either harmful chemicals or like Iba, plant- and mineral-based potent actives to help you achieve fair skin. Yes, fairness creams do work but it depends on what the skin type is, whether there are pimples, scars, pigmentation or any other medical conditions underlying the skin or is it simply genetics and luck. If you are naturally blessed with clear skin, even if it is medium brown to dusky, it is advisable not to tamper with it and continue to care for it using natural means - trying to make it “fairer” might not work out for the best in the long run especially if you use a fairness cream for womenwhich contains harmful chemicals.
