Skin bleaching is a common practice in most parts of the world, especially in Africa, where lighter skin was considered a sign of good beauty and social status. Health concerns, however, arose with the occurrence of possible vision impairment due to mercury found in some chemicals used for skin lightening.
Mercury is present under several names in a number of bleaching creams: “mercuric iodide,” “quicksilver,” and “ammoniated mercury” are a few examples. This highly toxic element works by preventing the formation of melanin, which in turn gives the skin a much lighter complexion. Though this may yield results of the skin tone that one desires, exposure to mercury can have devastating effects on the human body, including the eyes.
The Risk of Blindness from Mercury
Mercury applied to the skin does not simply stay on the surface of the body. On the contrary, it is absorbed internally and has a tendency to accumulate in the body over time. Such accumulation can trigger severe health complications, including:
Peripheral Neuropathy and Loss of Vision
The Medical Science Monitor reported a study where chronic exposure to mercury causes visual disturbances, particularly peripheral field defects. Neurotoxicity from mercury creates damage within the nervous system, where progressive deterioration affects the capability of vision.
FDA Warnings Regarding Vision Health
The FDA has issued a number of warnings concerning the use of mercury due to its potential to cause visual disturbances. Indeed, the warning says that mercury in bleaching creams may be used continuously for many years, leading to impaired visual acuity, respiratory conditions, and other systemic impairment.
Other Toxic Effects of Mercury in Skin Bleaching Creams
Other than the risk of blindness, mercury poisoning through bleaching creams has various other lethal side effects, which include:
- Kidney Damage
- Skin rashes, scarring, discolouration
- Psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis
- Immune system impairment, which could also encourage skin infection
Effects of Long-Term Mercury Build-up
Mercury is a cumulative poison, so it would be accumulated in the body over time and become more and more difficult to discard. Continuous use of such creams increases the risk of long-term adverse health effects among users, including irreversible injury to the eyes and other vital organs.
Conclusion
While skin-lightening products promise a lighter complexion, the hidden dangers of mercury exposure far outweigh the aesthetic benefits. Application of bleaching creams containing mercury exposes not only your skin to danger but also your eyesight and overall health. Always avoid products containing mercury and get advice from dermatologists about safer alternatives that can be used for healthy skin without compromising one’s well-being.
