
But now, The New York Times reports that skin-lightening products like Fair & White and Hyprogel can cause serious side effects. Sure, they’ll lighten your skin, but these topical ointments can also cause horrible acne, and make your skin so thin that it bruises at the slightest touch. According to experts, these side effects are the result of harmful, prescription-level steroids found in the over-the-counter creams. The worst part? These products are scarily accessible–they’re sold everywhere from bodegas and ethnic beauty stores to online boutiques. Sadly, the Times says that no studies have been done on the use of skin lightening creams in this country, but we think it’s safe to say that they’re a bad idea. They’ll ruin your skin, but the real, lasting damage will be on your psyche.