Skin Cream Controversy

Skin-lightening creams may cause severe side effects, dermatologists say.
On its front page, the New York Times (1/16, A1, Saint Louis) reported that across the US, dermatologists "are seeing women of Hispanic and African descent, among others, with severe side effects...from the misuse of skin-lightening creams, many with prescription-strength ingredients, which are sold in beauty shops and bodegas and online." Dermatologist Eliot F. Battle Jr., MD, noted that "he treats side effects from lightening creams 'not only containing corticosteroids, but mercury,'" throughout "the entire broad spectrum of women of color." While some "are seeking to lighten dark spots caused by acne" or melasma, other users "seek to lighten their entire face or large swatches of their body, a practice common in developing countries...as a way to elevate one's social standing."