STUDY FINDS WHITENING SOAPS FOUND EFFECTIVE ON FILIPINO SKIN TYPES

Skin whitening has become a billion dollar industry all over the world. In Asia, and, particularly, in the Philippines, skin whitening has become a staple in the so-called vanity industry, because of the inherent appeal of whiter complexion – whiter skin is perceived to project a more radiant and more confident personality.

Among the many skin whitening solutions available in the market today – from common, inexpensive home-made concoctions to expensive clinical treatments – the most convenient and cost-efficient method is the regular use of skin whitening soaps. There are almost as many brands of skin whiteners as there are brands of soaps, these days.

The customer who searches for a brand that will not disappoint and will do what it promises to do, will be totally baffled by the sheer number of these soaps, claiming every sort of "wonder cures," and swamped by the colorful and attractive (and, yes, fragrant) packaging of these "beauty in a box" products.

Very few, if at all, however, back their claims with proof that their claims are true. Conversely, some products may actually work, but at the cost of side effects which can damage or hurt the user. Skin irritation and redness, excessive flaking, allergic reactions, and the growth of pustules or pimple-like manifestations on the affected areas, are just some of these side effects.

A study conducted by a leading dermatologist and researcher has found that skin whitening soaps containing green papaya enzyme and vitamin C are effective on skin types 3 and 4, the skin types most common among Filipinos.

The skin types are characterized as:

Type 3 Those with darker white skin, those of mixed-race ancestry and some American Indians have Type 3 skin. Their skin sometimes burns, but tans to a gradual light bronze. However, their skin is still sensitive to the sun and long-term exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer and accelerate aging.