Skin lightening creams sold illegally on British high streets – the hidden dangers

Creams marketed to lighten skin tone are being sold illegally on British high streets, including in butchers and specialist food shops. It is an unsettling discovery, but perhaps not a surprising one. Demand for these products is real and the profits are significant. But the ingredients that make them effective are also what make them dangerous.

Healthy human skin comes in a wide range of diverse tones. These can change over time because of illness, hormones, sunlight or ageing. Some people want to lighten their overall skin tone...