Use skin lightening products — with care. Skin lightening products with hydroquinone or kojic acid reduce the amount of melanin in the skin when applied.[2] These can be effective, but they come with certain risks:
Skin whitening products have been associated with toxic levels of mercury, and therefore, with mercury poisoning. The FDA regulates the use of hydroquinone in the U.S, and so it's relatively safe. 1 out of every 4 skin whitening agents from China, however, contains mercury, and so should be used with caution.[2]
Be careful about sun exposure when using skin whitening agents. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to skin cancer.[2] Always use appropriate sunscreen and other sun protection when exposed to sunlight.
Bleaching agents can cause irritation and allergic reactions in some people. Bleaching agents with steroids, such as kojic acid, may put you at risk for health problems associated with steroid use.