Skin brightening isn’t a new term for us Indians. It’s been decades we are still somewhat in a fight over whether skin brightening is associated with skin whitening and most of the time it has been taken as a metaphor. To get that gorgeous and luminous skin. Though, one should never underestimate the stigma and stereotyping associated with the term ‘whitening’ in India and most of the Asian countries  

The old conversation around it remains nuanced and complex. The desire for “gorgeous and luminous skin” is understandable, yet it’s crucial to separate this pursuit from harmful ideals about fairer skin equating to greater beauty or social standing. The term “whitening” carries a heavyweight in India and elsewhere in Asia, often intertwined with colonial legacies and discriminatory biases from the medieval ages.  

Striving for clear, healthy, glowing skin is one thing, but perpetuating harmful stereotypes through terminology and practices is another. We must acknowledge the stigma attached to “whitening” and move towards celebrating the diverse spectrum of skin tones that enriches our communities. Embracing healthy skincare practices that cater to individual needs, regardless of shade, is a far more positive and inclusive approach. This is exactly how The Purple Soul approach is, not promising on the part of whitening, but we strive to give you the best of the glow within your skin shade with a fresh & bright look.  

Factors that contributes to the Dullness and the Discolouration

Skin is your body’s largest organ. There should be a no-brainer to see that there will be some days when your skin will feel lowkey dying dull. Thus, this might be because of multiple factors associated with your habits or body needs. We will look at it factor-wise to see what causes skin to look dull.

• Dehydration- Dietary water plays the most important part in making your skin glow. As a fact of the matter, one of the studies conducted by the NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) aka National Library for Medicine states, that one should at least have 3200 ml (about 108.2 oz) – 3000ml (about 101.44 oz) of water per day respectively considering male and female.   

• Dry Skin problem- It’s usual to see people dealing with dry skin to get worse skin texture in winter which looks dull and chapped at the core. While there is a lack of moisture through the epidermal layer there should be a need for an intense hydrating cream or lotion. Which exactly some brightening creams give.   

• No shedding of Dead Skin cells– Your skin sheds a lot of its dead cell buildup on the surface of the skin. These dead skin cells easily wear off daily. However, in some people, it might not lead to a buildup on the face. Leaving a dull, flaky, and patched-looking skin.   

• Ageing- Aging slows down skin cell renewal, shrinks its support proteins, and dries it out, making it less reflective and glowy. Brightening creams help by removing dead cells, evening out pigment, and adding hydration, but we can’t reverse ageing itself. As it is an inevitable part of growth. However, you should think of them as a helping hand, not a miracle or cure! Keep your skin happy with additional products like sunscreen, healthy habits, and consistent care.  

Bursting Myths with Facts around Brightening Creams and Lightening Creams

Myth 1: Skin-brightening creams can dramatically lighten your skin tone.     

Fact: While these creams target hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, they don’t typically significantly lighten the overall complexion. The effects are gradual and tend to focus on specific areas rather than an overall change in skin tone. Patience and consistent use are essential for noticeable results.  

Myth 2: Natural and organic creams are always safe and effective.   

Fact: Not all natural ingredients are universally safe for everyone, and their efficacy in brightening skin can vary. It’s crucial to research and do patch tests before using any new product, even if it’s labeled as natural or organic. Some natural ingredients might cause allergic reactions or irritation in certain individuals.  

Myth 3: Expensive creams are always better than affordable ones.   

Fact: Price isn’t a definitive indicator of a product’s effectiveness. Key ingredients like niacinamide, kojic acid, or vitamin C are what truly contribute to efficacy. It’s essential to focus on ingredients rather than just the price tag. Thorough research and checking reviews can help find quality products at varying price points.  

Myth 4: You can achieve instant results with skin-brightening creams.  

Fact: Skin brightening is a gradual process that requires consistent application. Instant results are unlikely, and it might take weeks or months to see noticeable changes. Staying patient and maintaining a routine is crucial for achieving the desired results.  

Myth 5: Using skin-brightening creams means you don’t need sunscreen.  

Fact: Sunscreen is essential for everyone regardless of skin tone or the use of brightening creams. Some of these products can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, making sunscreen even more critical to prevent further hyperpigmentation and protect the skin from harmful UV rays.  

Myth 6: Home remedies like lemon juice or papaya are effective skin brighteners.  

Fact: While some natural ingredients might have mild brightening properties, using them directly on the skin can be harsh and cause irritation. It’s advisable to opt for products specifically formulated for topical application. Consulting a dermatologist is recommended for concerns about using home remedies on the skin.  

Myth 7: Skin-brightening creams are all safe and have no side effects.  

Fact: Not all skin-brightening creams are free from side effects. Some individuals may experience irritation, dryness, redness, or allergic reactions. Conducting a patch test before regular use and seeking advice from a dermatologist, especially for those with sensitive skin, is crucial to avoid potential adverse effects.  

Your skin’s natural tone is honestly stunning! Your Skin tone makes your unique signature look, something that makes you, well, you! Skincare is about fixing certain things like dark spots or unevenness, and not exactly trying to change how your whole skin looks complexion-wise. Taking care of your skin should be about addressing specific concerns, like hyperpigmentation or unevenness, rather than aiming to change complexion overall So, focus on nurturing your skin with healthy practices—cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting it from the sun, because that’s what truly brings out your skin’s best glow! Show off your unique self and let your skin be its awesome self too!