Welcome to this week’s post about Fair & Lovely from a Scientific POV! This week, we researched whether or not Fair & Lovely truly can alter one’s skin color. A quick disclaimer that in no way are we scientists! Our research was done with the help of scientific journal publications and other articles. We did not carry out our own research, or test Fair & Lovely on our skin. Happy reading!
What is Melanin?
Melanocytes are cells that produce melanin in the human body. Melanin is the natural pigment in our bodies. It is responsible for the color of our skin, iris, and hair. The big ticket question is:
Why do my white friends have less melanin than me?
A long time ago, our bodies adapted to the environment. Having more pigment in skin color is a natural protector against the sunlight. Africans, some Asians, Pacific Islanders and Hispanics all have significantly more melanin in their bodies because these groups of people lived extremely close to the equator, and additionally, spent hours of time outside doing labor. Because of these factors, these groups have evolved and by spending time outside, the skin naturally tans. The majority of white people originate from Europe, which is pretty far from the equator. Their bodies didn’t feel the need to produce more melanocytes because there was no reason to: they aren’t exposed to as much sun. This is why people with lighter skin tend to sunburn easier; their bodies are not prepared to protect themselves.
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3. In aging skin, topical application of niacinamide improves the surface structure, smoothes out wrinkles and inhibits photocarcinogenesis. It is possible to demonstrate anti‐inflammatory effects in acne, rosacea and nitrogen mustard‐induced irritation. Niacinamide is a naturally occurring form of Vitamin B3 that can be depleted. When this happens, products like serums or creams can be used to lighten dark spots like acne scars on the skin.
Niacinamide is one of the main ingredients found in Fair & Lovely. Fair & Lovely recently changed its name to Glow & Lovely in India, however the product itself did not change. The same ingredients are present in Fair & Lovely and in Glow & Lovely, but the rebranding is simply a step Unilever took to be considered a more inclusive brand.
This was not the first rebranding that Fair & Lovely has gone through. Back in 2017 they also rebranded their products sold in Ghana to Even & Lovely after the government of Ghana imposed strict restrictions on skin-bleaching products. But, Unilever denies that their product is a skin bleaching product and contains harmful chemicals.
The European Commission for Consumer Safety has listed two unsafe chemicals in Fair & Lovely. The product contains mercury (measured value: 0,1 mg/kg). Mercury accumulates in the body and can damage the kidneys, brain and nervous system. Additionally, it may affect reproduction and the unborn child. The product does not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation. They also stated that Fair & Lovely contains hydroquinone (measured value: 0,01 %). Hydroquinone can cause skin irritation and dermatitis. The product does not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation.
The U.S Food and Drug Administration warns that mercury can be in products without being explicitly labeled as mercury. “How will you know if mercury’s in the cosmetic, especially one that’s marketed as ‘anti-aging’ or ‘skin lightening’? Check the label. If the words ‘mercurous chloride,’ ‘calomel,’ ‘mercuric,’ ‘mercurio,’ or ‘mercury’ are listed on the label, mercury’s in it—and you should stop using the product immediately.”
As mentioned early, Vitamin B3 can most definitely reduce dark spots, such as acne scars, on the skin. But, it cannot completely alter the color of one’s skin. Fair & Lovely is extremely misconceiving when it comes to their claims. In the packaging of Fair & Lovely’s products, they specifically say that Fair & Lovely can help with reducing dark spots, uneven skin tones, and patchy skin.
If this is true, then why do all of their advertisements show the color of a woman’s entire face changing?
To a certain extent, yes, Fair & Lovely is correct. Vitamin B3 can help, but it will not help alter melanin in the body.
Please do your research before purchasing skin care products! As mentioned above, Fair & Lovely includes perfume. Scent is not good for your skin, and can irritate it. Although we did not have the time to research each and every ingredient, please conduct extensive research when it comes to products for your body!
That’s all for this week! Thanks for learning a little bit about Fair & Lovely! Come back next week for a post about All Around South Asia-Punjab!